Should the teeth become too sensitive to continue treatment in the proposed fashion, treatment should be discontinued and the office contacted. Often, reduction of the amount of treatment time per application, or reduction of the frequency of treatment applications will reduce or alleviate the sensitivity such that the bleaching treatment may still be continued. Occasionally other materials such as fluoride or desensitizing agents like potassium nitrate may be applied with the tray to reduce sensitivity. These applications may alternate with bleaching, or be 10-30 minutes before or after bleaching as needed. Brushing with a desensitizing toothpaste may be helpful.
Irritation also can be due to mechanical causes, as well as chemical causes.
Irritations usually occur in the first week or two of treatment. Chemical irritations may resolve in 1-4 days without cessation of treatment. Should the irritation be too uncomfortable to continue bleaching, treatment should be discontinued, and the office informed of this circumstance. If the irritation persists, an office visit may be needed. Mechanical irritations may require altering the shape of the prosthesis, or the technique of removal.