Does Teeth Whitening Hurt or Cause Sensitivity?
Let’s clear up one of the biggest questions we hear about teeth whitening: Will it hurt?
The short answer? Not usually. And at The Beauty Block in Calgary, we go out of our way to keep it that way. From gentle ingredients to personalized care, your comfort is built into every step of our whitening process. Whether you’ve got sensitive teeth, past experiences with gum irritation, or just want to avoid any unpleasant side effects, we’ve got you covered.
In this blog post, we’ll break down what causes sensitivity, how we minimize discomfort, and what to expect from your whitening session.
What Actually Causes Tooth Sensitivity During Whitening?
To understand sensitivity after teeth whitening, you need to know what’s going on inside your teeth.
Teeth whitening gels work by lifting stains from deep within your tooth enamel using ingredients like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These agents break down discoloration, but they can also open up tiny pores in the enamel that expose your nerve endings to temperature or pressure changes. That’s when you might feel a quick “zing” which rarely happens.
For most people, the sensitivity is mild and temporary. For others, especially those with naturally thin enamel or existing oral health concerns, it may last a little longer. But it is not permanent, and it does not mean you can’t enjoy a brighter smile.
Why Professional Teeth Whitening Makes All the Difference
The biggest difference between professional teeth whitening and over-the-counter whitening products is control. With professional care, we can completely tailor your treatment based on your teeth, goals, and comfort level.
Here at The Beauty Block, we use a combination of two dental-grade whitening gels to get you the best results without the adverse effects:
Hydrogen Peroxide Gel: This powerful gel is activated by a blue plasma light. It works quickly to lift surface stains and instantly brighten the color of your teeth.
Carbamide Peroxide Gel: This gentler formula breaks down more slowly, providing long-term effects without irritating the soft tissues around your gums. It is especially helpful for deeper stain removal and is less likely to cause bleaching-induced tooth sensitivity.
By combining these two, you get fast, visible results from the hydrogen peroxide and longer-lasting improvement from the carbamide peroxide. That means your natural teeth keep getting whiter even after your appointment is over.
Want a deeper look at the ingredients and benefits? Read: Achieve Your Brightest Smile with Professional Teeth Whitening to explore how our dual-gel system works and why it’s so effective.
How We Customize Your Whitening Experience
No two smiles are the same, and your whitening procedure should reflect that. Every treatment starts with a personalized treatment plan. We’ll decide on the best whitening method, choose the ideal concentration of peroxide, and even adjust how long the gel stays on your teeth.
Here are a few ways we reduce the potential discomfort and protect your tooth structure:
Gum barrier protection: Before we apply any gel, we place a protective barrier over your gums. This prevents gum irritation and keeps the whitening agents exactly where they belong.
Adjustable gel strengths: We can lower the peroxide level or shorten your treatment period to reduce the chance of tooth sensitivity. For clients with sensitive teeth, this is a game-changer.
Mini whitening sessions: Not sure how your teeth will react? Start with a 30-minute mini-session. You’ll still see results, and it gives us a safe way to test your comfort before going for the full glow.
How to Keep Your Smile Bright and Sensitivity Low
If you’re worried about the potential side effects of whitening, the right aftercare makes all the difference. Try these preventative measures to protect your smile and extend your results:
Brush with sensitive toothpaste a week before and after your session
Use a fluoride mouthwash to strengthen your enamel
Skip acidic foods, hot foods, and cold foods for 24 hours post-treatment
Avoid sugary food and drinks that could trigger tooth pain
Stick to your dentist’s product recommendations and avoid re-whitening too soon
Keep up with regular dental checkups to stay on top of any underlying issues
If needed, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help take the edge off, but most clients do just fine without them.
How much does teeth whitening cost?
At The Beauty Block, our teeth whitening services are priced based on the level of treatment and your goals.
Here’s a quick look at our current menu:
Mini Whitening – $125: A 30-minute whitening session ideal for sensitive teeth or if you're new to the process. Great for testing how your teeth respond before going all in.
Elite Teeth Whitening – $225: Our full-power service with a stronger teeth whitening gel for moderate stains. Delivers serious results with just one visit, though it may come with slightly more sensitivity after treatment.
Elite Whitening Add-On – $150: Add a full whitening session to any 1-hour service (like lash fills or lifts) at a discounted rate. It’s the ultimate multitasker move.
Elite Touch-Up – $180: Returning within 3–6 months? This is your go-to to maintain your brighter smile and prevent stains from settling in.
No matter which option you choose, your treatment is customized for your smile, comfort level, and sensitivity concerns.
Book Your Teeth Whitening in Calgary Today
Whether you're dealing with tooth discoloration, planning a big event, or just ready to feel a little more confident, our professional treatments are here to help.
At The Beauty Block, we only use advanced products to give you safe, effective, and glowing result. You get a white smile without the worry.
Let’s create a custom plan that works for your oral health, fits your lifestyle, and helps you achieve your most beautiful smile, minus the severe pain or long-term effects.
Come see why our teeth whitening bar is a Calgary favorite. We’re conveniently located at #102, 1409 Edmonton Trail, Calgary, AB.
Teeth Whitening FAQs
How long will my teeth hurt after whitening?
Any sensitivity after whitening is usually temporary and mild. Most people notice it fades within 24 to 48 hours, especially if you follow our aftercare tips.
Why do dentists not recommend teeth whitening?
They actually do. Just not all types. Many dental professionals warn against high-strength over-the-counter products that can cause permanent damage when misused. That’s why professional whitening treatments are the safer, more effective route.
Do I brush my teeth after whitening?
Yes, but wait at least 30 minutes. Your enamel is slightly more porous right after whitening, so give it time before brushing. Use a soft brush and sensitive toothpaste to avoid aggravating your teeth.