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Are whitening strips safe while pregnant?

Are Whitening Strips Safe While Pregnant?
The question of whether whitening strips are safe for use during pregnancy is one that many expectant mothers ponder as they seek to maintain their dental aesthetics. While the desire for a brighter smile is understandable, the safety of these products during pregnancy is a nuanced topic that warrants careful consideration.
General Consensus on Safety
Most dental health experts and organizations recommend against the use of whitening strips while pregnant. The primary concern revolves around the active ingredient in many whitening products: peroxide. Although peroxide is generally considered safe for adults, there is insufficient research to definitively conclude its safety for pregnant women. This uncertainty leads many professionals to err on the side of caution, advising against the use of these products during pregnancy.
Potential Risks
Using whitening strips can pose several risks for pregnant women. One significant concern is gum irritation. The ingredients in whitening products, including peroxide and alcohol, may cause inflammation or bleeding in the sensitive gums of pregnant women. Additionally, the nausea and vomiting that often accompany early pregnancy could lead to accidental swallowing of the whitening gel, which raises further health concerns.
Moreover, while some argue that over-the-counter whitening products contain lower concentrations of peroxide and might be safer, the lack of comprehensive studies means that these claims remain speculative. The potential for enamel sensitivity and other dental issues during pregnancy also complicates the decision to use whitening strips.
Expert Recommendations
Given these considerations, many dental professionals suggest that pregnant women should postpone any teeth whitening treatments until after childbirth and breastfeeding. Instead, they recommend focusing on maintaining good oral hygiene and possibly exploring safer alternatives for achieving a brighter smile, such as professional cleanings or natural remedies.
In conclusion, while the allure of whitening strips may be tempting, the prevailing advice is to prioritize the health and safety of both the mother and the developing fetus. Consulting with a healthcare provider before making any decisions regarding dental treatments during pregnancy is always a prudent approach.

Does UV light affect fetus?

The literature shows that being women exposure to UV radiation had beneficial effects on fetal growth and blood pressure during pregnancy period. However, since this issue has not been extensively studied in the past, the results from previous studies should be generalized with extreme care and caution.

Can I use crest white strips while nursing?

There is no evidence that Crest 3DWhitestrips or Crest Whitening Emulsions are harmful to use when pregnant or nursing. However, we recommend consulting with your doctor before use. The Packaging Says to Store Crest 3DWhitestrips and Crest Whitening Emulsions in a Cool Place.

Are there side effects of teeth whitening while pregnant?

Currently, there are no widespread studies on the effects of teeth whitening while pregnant. While there do not appear to be any negative side effects and it is assumed to be safe, it has not conclusively been proven to be safe for women who are pregnant.

Can I do whitening strips while pregnant?

No, teeth whitening is unsafe for pregnant women. Instead, dentists recommend postponing elective treatments like teeth whitening. Below are some reasons you should avoid teeth whitening while pregnant. Morning sickness and nausea lead to frequent vomiting while pregnant.

Is UV teeth whitening safe during pregnancy?

Because oral bleaching chemicals require UV light, pregnant women should never whiten their teeth with UV light. You should not use teeth-whitening techniques that involve chemicals that might enter your system while pregnant.

How to safely whiten teeth while pregnant?

Baking Soda: baking soda is an abrasive that helps polish dental stains. If using baking soda as a natural whitener, apply a thin paste of baking soda to your toothbrush and brush your teeth as usual. Although you may not like the salty taste of the ingredient, it helps remove surface discoloration.

Can you use Philips teeth whitening when pregnant?

Although evidence shows no seriously dangerous risks of teeth whitening treatments during pregnancy, this doesn’t mean there aren’t any risks at all. This is why experts recommend waiting until after you give birth to go through with treatment.

How do you get rid of yellow teeth during pregnancy?

The two main ways to get teeth whiter are:

  1. Applying whitening products that contain bleaching chemicals, such as hydrogen peroxide. This can be done by a dentist or at home using an over-the-counter kit.
  2. Using a mild abrasive toothpaste that can scrape stains off the surface of the teeth.

When should you not use whitening strips?

You have existing oral health issues like cavities, worn enamel, periodontal disease, or exposed roots. You wear braces. You have crowns, fillings, or other dental restorations that will not be whitened by a home kit. You’re allergic to peroxide or any of the other ingredients in whitening strips.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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