Teeth whitening is a work of wonder. Finding the perfect set of teeth is a journey, but like any path, a few bumps along the way are inevitable. While sensitivity is a well-known side effect, there’s another issue, often less-discussed – burned gums. Let’s shed some light on it.
Gums Turning White after Whitening – Why Does This Happen?
Who does not want to flash their perfectly white teeth, but the road to that goal can sometimes lead to unintended consequences. One such is burnt gums, which can whiten them.
The reason behind it is the whitening gel, which contains potent hydrogen peroxide. It not only targets teeth but also negatively affects your tender gums, leading to potential burns.
Depending on the burning intensity, your gums show different signs, such as:
- Mild Burn: Your gum tissues might appear slightly red and inflamed.
- Moderate Burn: Gums will start to look white.
- Severe Burn: Injury to gum tissues.
Treating White Gums Due to Burning
Here are some of the steps you can take for a smoother recovery:
- Put an End to Your Whitening Process Immediately: If your gums are under fire, give them a break. Continuing the process will only worsen your discomfort and exacerbate the burn.
- Rinse with Salt Water Solution: You can keep your gums clean with the help of this Holy Grail. Rinsing with a saltwater solution, just like a mouthwash, helps maintain oral hygiene without causing additional irritation.
- Practice Gentle Brushing: You must check out the condition of your gums, and if they are not severely damaged, start brushing from that side carefully with the help of a soft toothbrush. However, in the case of a severe burn, steer clear of brushing for a while.
- Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: OTC pain medication, such as ibuprofen, can offer relief from discomfort.
- Vitamin E: Vitamin E oil aids in the healing of chemical burns, like those caused by whitening agents. This is the reason why you will find some professionals, including vitamin E, for whitening treatments.
What to Avoid for Speedy Recovery?
While you are on your way to recovery, there are certain things that you must not do for better healing.
- Eat spicy or acidic foods. You must steer clear of anything that will irritate your mouth as it will only worsen your gums burnt by the whitening gel. Stick to food that is milder for the next few days.
- Use alcohol-based mouthwashes. Although mouthwash is a good part that helps maintain oral hygiene; however, do not use anything infused with alcohol. Go for options like salt water rinse.
- Leave the area alone. Let your gums be, do not bother it, and try your best not to play around it as well. All you have to do is keep your fingers and tongue away from the affected area as much as possible.
Closing Note
You can contact our experts from Smile Time Dental for a safe and effective whitening treatment. Our dentists are well-trained to perform this procedure with risks, next to nothing. Dial (281) 245-0711 and book an appointment. Or, you can drop by at 10185 Westview Dr, Houston, TX 77043.