The only tip I feel is necessary is to choose a shade that is right for you - one that suits you and your skin tone. You don’t want a white that no one notices, whilst at the same time you don’t want to be blinding your friends.
Sensitivity mainly depends on the individual’s teeth and some are just more sensitive than others. However, here at the London Centre for Cosmetic Dentistry we specialise in whitening treatments that use very little hydrogen peroxide (this is what can cause sensitivity) but achieve fabulous results (as if we were using a high percentage) due to the technology we apply to do the whitening. For example, we have the UltraSonic whitening, a favourite with the Hollywood A-list, which uses sound waves, instead of the usual ultraviolet light to breakdown the stain molecules on the teeth. If you have your teeth whitened and they are a little sensitive, I would recommend not eating anything too hot or too cold for a few days, nothing too sugary or hard (like a boiled sweet) and brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush. If the sensitivity continues you should go back to the dentist who did the whitening. If you are doing a whitening kit at home and your teeth/gums start to hurt, I would recommend that you stop and do the above. However, with today’s technology and at a reputable dentistry you should only be getting very minor or no sensitivity.
Don't be tempted to buy kits over-the-counter or on the Internet. Not only are they not made to fit your mouth exactly, it may be that bleaching isn't suitable for you, especially if you have gum disease or crowns.
The most important part of a cosmetic consultation is for me to hear your thoughts, what you want, why you want it and what you expect. Then we have a chat and with my recommendations, we will decide on what treatment is best for you. One of the most important things that I do is to listen to my patient. I then will give you a thorough dental examination to check that your teeth and gums are healthy and take x-rays.
There are many whitening treatments on the UK market and you and the dentist will decide which treatment is best for you. Here at the London Centre for Cosmetic Dentistry we do a range of whitening treatments: