Gum Irritation and Sensitive Teeth from Whitestrips (2024)

FAQs

Gum Irritation and Sensitive Teeth from Whitestrips? ›

A Cochrane study found that gum irritation is one of two common problems when using teeth whiteners with a higher concentration of bleaching agents like hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide. (Tooth sensitivity is the other problem.) Though, if used correctly, the irritation is temporary and mild.

But science shows that the strips come with some side effects, most commonly increased tooth sensitivity and mild gum irritation, which can last for several days and be quite painful — especially if the whitening agent gets into a cavity, or if your gums are already inflamed or bleeding from gum disease.

As long as you stop the bleaching treatment quickly, the good news is that gum irritation usually resolves on its own after a few days. Saltwater rinses will help relieve discomfort during recovery. If needed, over-the-counter pain relievers can dull the irritation or burning feeling.

If you tend to have teeth sensitive to whitening, talk with your dentist about the options available to you. If you try a product and experience painful sensitivity, stop using it immediately and consult with a dental professional.

Besides this, you may notice that parts of your gums have turned white, or you've developed white spots and patches on the gums. This is a sign that you have a chemical burn; a burned area will usually become sore and turn white on contact with the solution.

Excellent brushing and flossing and routine professional cleanings can help reduce and prevent bacteria build-up in the mouth, helping your gums to heal faster. Be sure to avoid hard-bristled toothbrushes and abrasive oral products. If possible, use fluoride toothpaste and an electric toothbrush.

The bleaching agent in teeth whitening strips, while not as powerful as the ones dentists use, is still a harsh chemical which can damage the soft tissues of your gums. It's essential to avoid contact between the whitening agent and your gums wherever possible, although this is easier said than done.

Should you brush your teeth after whitening strips? ›

As for whether you should brush your teeth after using whitening strips, there is no definitive answer. While some experts recommend brushing immediately after removing the strips to ensure all residue is removed, others advise waiting for 30 minutes to allow the enamel to rehydrate and minimize potential abrasion.

Teeth whitening by a professional does not lead to permanent sensitivity. You will start to experience perceptiveness during the process and for a short while after.

Home remedies for soothing burned gums

Wet a clean cloth with hot water (but not too hot!) or wrap a clean cloth around some ice for a cool relief. Rinse your mouth with salt water to reduce the inflammation in your mouth and get rid of any bacteria.

The time it takes for sore gums to return to normal varies depending on the cause. For most cases, such as poor brushing technique or simple injury – the gums should take around 10 days to heal. However, your gums can start to feel better within a few days too – but fully healing over a week or so.

Gingivitis can be reversed in 2-3 weeks with dedicated daily self-care – but if not treated it quickly turns into periodontitis, as you will have read above, the damage caused by the disease cannot be reversed, but you can stop it from getting any worse.

Although tooth sensitivity with whitening is very common, it is usually of short duration, lasting just 24 to 48 hours.

Drink Plenty of Water : The most simple and effective way to rehydrate your teeth after whitening is to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Water helps replenish the moisture levels in your mouth and promotes saliva production, which aids in washing away acid and bacteria.

To reduce the occurrence of zingers, patients can use a desensitizing toothpaste before and after the treatment. They can also avoid hot or cold drinks and food for a few days after the treatment. The good news is that this sensitivity does not last very long.