Hydrogen peroxide dental use

Hydrogen peroxide is an oxidising compound used in some mouth-rinse and whitening formulations at specified concentrations. In a dental setting, the clinician controls the product, contact time, isolation, and rinsing.

Unsupervised use can irritate the oral mucosa, cause temporary sensitivity, and disturb the surface tissues. Swallowing it can cause additional harm, especially in children.

Use only a product labelled for oral use and follow its instructions exactly; do not substitute concentrated household or salon peroxide. Rinse with water after accidental contact and do not use peroxide to treat a sore, ulcer, or suspected infection.

For whitening, a dentist can check for decay, gum inflammation, restorations, and exposed roots before choosing a peroxide-based method.

Stop and seek advice after burning, white or peeling mucosa, persistent pain, vomiting, or accidental swallowing. Urgent help is needed for breathing difficulty, severe swelling, or a large ingestion.

A dentist can inspect the mucosa and teeth, identify the concentration and exposure, and decide whether rinsing, observation, or medical assessment is needed.

What concentration and formulation is appropriate for my purpose? Is the discoloration intrinsic, surface staining, decay, or a restoration? What should I do if the product touched my gums?