Recognizing an Adverse Reaction to Hydrogen Peroxide in Professional Teeth Whitening

If you are interested in having your teeth professionally whitened, it is imperative that you learn to recognize the symptoms associated with an adverse reaction to the hydrogen peroxide contained within the teeth whitening gel.While most individuals experience no reaction to this substance, there have been cases noted in which an allergic reaction was experienced when the individual was subjected to high concentration levels of the substance. Professional teeth whitening procedures often use bleaching gels that have high levels of hydrogen peroxide in order to achieve dramatic whitening results quickly.

Hydrogen peroxide is a substance that has been found to be potentially toxic if it is ingested. While most teeth whitening procedures use it mixed with a gel, there is a possibility that a small amount may be swallowed during the procedure. Typically, small concentrations may not result in any side effects, but case studies on animals and emergencies involving this product and human indicate that there have been complications associated with swallowing larger concentrations of the substance. Erosions in the stomach area, burns to the tissue in the throat, distention related to abdominal gas, vomiting, ulcerations, and diarrhea may occur.

Individuals who experience an immediate allergic reaction to the high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide contained in professional teeth bleaching gel may result in an outbreak of hives, breathing complications, and swelling in and around the mouth, face, and throat area. If you are interested in having your teeth whitened, it is often best to select an at home teeth whitening kit. While these do contain peroxide, it is normally a very low percentage and has not been associated with serious health complications. Additionally, hydrogen peroxide teeth whitening systems may be substituted with at home systems that incorporate the use of Carbamide peroxide. While effective in removing stains from the teeth, this mild form of peroxide does not possess the same properties that may cause complications.