I totally relate to the sensitivity thing—mine was pretty noticeable too, especially with cold drinks. As for those at-home trays, my dentist gave me some custom ones after my last whitening session, and honestly, they weren't too bad. Yeah, they're a bit of a hassle at first, but I found using them occasionally really did help keep my teeth brighter longer. Might be worth trying once to see if the upkeep feels manageable for you... everyone's different!
I completely get where you're coming from with the sensitivity issue—I've experienced the same thing, especially after orthodontic treatments. My teeth were super sensitive for weeks after whitening, and even brushing felt uncomfortable at times. My dentist suggested trying a toothpaste specifically designed for sensitivity, which helped quite a bit. As for the custom trays, I also found them helpful, but I have to admit, keeping up with them regularly was a bit challenging for me. I tended to forget or just got lazy after a while, so now I just use them once every few months when I notice my teeth starting to dull again. It's definitely manageable if you don't mind the occasional upkeep, but personally, I couldn't stick to a consistent schedule. Everyone's tolerance and routine are different though, so it might work better for you.
"keeping up with them regularly was a bit challenging for me. I tended to forget or just got lazy after a while"
Glad I'm not the only one who struggles with consistency... I'm scheduled for my first whitening session next week and honestly, the sensitivity thing has me a bit nervous. Already stocked up on sensitive toothpaste just in case. Did you notice if certain foods or drinks made it worse? Trying to mentally prepare myself here, haha.
Already stocked up on sensitive toothpaste just in case. Did you notice if certain foods or drinks made it worse?
Sensitivity was definitely a thing for us too, but honestly, it wasn't as scary as I'd imagined. My kiddo did notice cold stuff—especially ice cream and smoothies—felt extra chilly for a day or two after sessions. Hot drinks weren't as much of an issue, weirdly enough. Just keep that sensitive toothpaste handy and maybe avoid biting into popsicles for a bit, haha. Good luck—you'll probably be fine!
My kiddo did notice cold stuff—especially ice cream and smoothies—felt extra chilly for a day or two after sessions.
Sensitivity can vary quite a bit from person to person, but yeah, cold stuff usually seems to be the main culprit. I've had patients mention smoothies and ice cream being particularly uncomfortable for a couple days afterward. Weirdly enough, acidic foods like citrus or tomatoes can sometimes trigger sensitivity too, so maybe watch out for those. But honestly, it tends to fade pretty quickly—just stick with the sensitive toothpaste and you'll probably be good in no time.
