Peroxide-based teeth whitening systems may be a tempting option to choose as they are cheap, easy to use and effective, and they can be performed at home. Although the home kits have a very low concentration of the chemical, non-peroxide methods contain no toxic chemicals and the results are as good.
However, if you choose to whiten your teeth using peroxide, what exactly are the side effects you may experience?
1. White spots
As peroxide may temporarily bleach your gums, this can cause formation of white spots. This is usually short term and will only last a few days. It is highly unusual to have permanent whitening of your gums following peroxide use. However, it is a common side effect and in many cases you may also experience temporary bleeding.
2. Hypersensitivity
This is the most commonly reported side effect associated with teeth whitening using peroxide. Hypersensitivity may occur when there is a high concentration of peroxide and when the whitening agent used is more acidic. In order to avoid it, you should only use the product for short periods of time and in small amounts. Whilst difficult to prevent, it is usually resolved in the short term through discontinuation of the treatment.
3. Sore throat
This can be caused by swallowing the product, but can be minimized by keeping it in your mouth for shorter periods of time. In some cases swallowing the product may also lead to a headache. Unfortunately, this is common as accidental swallowing of the product is very probable. Although the effects should only last a few days, try spitting out the excess product instead of swallowing it.
4. Thinning of tooth enamel
The reason why peroxide is so effective at whitening your teeth is because it passes through the enamel. Prolonged use can cause permanent damage to the enamel as well as the tissue inside your mouth. This, in turn, will lead to further hypersensitivity. Excessive use of peroxide whitening treatments may also cause you to lose your enamel, which would result in translucent teeth and damaged gums.
5. Intestine damage
In the probable event that you accidentally ingest some of the product, this may cause damaged intestinal walls.
6. Mouth cancer
Peroxide contained in tooth whitening kits breaks down to form free radicals, which can cause cellular damage. Although this is unlikely due to the low concentration of peroxide, it is probable as it not only increases any present cancer cells but may also lead to formation of new ones.
