Perhaps the most common side-effect of teeth whitening that our Princeton, NJ, dentist sees is tooth sensitivity.  Since whitening opens up the tiny pores across your enamel, it makes the nerves inside of your teeth more hypersensitive. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to minimize tooth sensitivity.  Dr. Bestandji recommends using a sensitivity toothpaste twice a day for the two weeks leading up to your whitening appointment. It’s best to continue using the product for at least another week after your whitening is completed. If you’re using an at-home kit, continue using the sensitivity toothpaste throughout the process.  Professionally applied fluoride is also a great way to desensitize teeth that are hypersensitive to whitening products. You can stop by our dentist office at any time to have a varnish or gel applied; most people see results last for at least a few months.