My dentist suggested something similar, but I ended up just grabbing the regular Sensodyne (think it was Pronamel?) from the drugstore. Worked fine for me after a few days... sensitivity was pretty much gone. Guess it depends how intense your whitening was though.
I had a similar experience, but honestly, regular Sensodyne didn't really cut it for me. I tried Pronamel at first too, thinking it'd be enough, but my teeth felt sensitive for almost two weeks after whitening. Guess my enamel was just extra sensitive or something... who knows.
Anyway, I ended up switching to a toothpaste specifically designed for post-whitening sensitivity—think it was Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief or something along those lines. It has arginine in it, which apparently helps plug up those tiny tubules in your teeth that cause sensitivity. Took about three or four days to really kick in, but once it did, the difference was pretty noticeable.
I think you're right though—it probably depends a lot on how intense your whitening treatment was and your own teeth's natural sensitivity. My dentist mentioned some people barely notice any sensitivity at all, while others (like me, unfortunately) have a rougher time of it. Plus, diet and daily habits can play a role too. If you're drinking lots of acidic stuff like coffee or soda right after whitening, that might prolong sensitivity issues.
Just thought I'd share my experience since Pronamel didn't really do much for me personally. Glad it worked out for you though—definitely cheaper than buying specialty stuff from the dentist!
Interesting you mention arginine—I read somewhere that it actually forms a protective layer over those exposed tubules, which makes sense why it worked better for you. I've personally had decent luck with Sensodyne Rapid Relief, but I guess everyone's teeth react differently. Did your dentist recommend any specific waiting period before drinking coffee or acidic drinks again? Mine said 48 hours, but I've heard some people wait even longer...
My dentist told my daughter to wait at least 48 hours too, but honestly, I'm thinking of giving it a full three days just to be safe. I'm always paranoid about enamel damage and sensitivity issues... especially since she's still young. Did your dentist say anything about using straws afterward? Ours recommended drinking coffee or juice through a straw for the first week or so to minimize contact with the teeth. Seems logical, but I wonder if it really helps much long-term.
Yeah, my dentist mentioned the straw thing too. I've tried it myself, and honestly, it does seem to help a bit at first—especially with coffee stains. Not sure about long-term though...probably more of a short-term precaution than anything else.
