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Can I use oral B teeth whitening strips while breastfeeding?

Can You Use Oral B Teeth Whitening Strips While Breastfeeding?
The question of whether it’s safe to use Oral B teeth whitening strips while breastfeeding is one that many new mothers may ponder as they seek to maintain their dental aesthetics. The consensus among dental professionals and health experts leans towards caution.
Expert Opinions on Safety
While there are no definitive studies that conclusively prove the safety or risks of using teeth whitening products during breastfeeding, many experts recommend erring on the side of caution. For instance, Dr. Brian Harris notes that while the short answer is that caution is advised, the lack of extensive research leaves room for uncertainty.
Moreover, some brands, like Spotlight Oral Care, explicitly advise against the use of whitening strips during breastfeeding, suggesting instead that mothers opt for safer alternatives such as specially formulated whitening toothpaste and mouthwash. This recommendation stems from a desire to avoid any potential risks, even if they are not fully understood.
The Chemical Composition of Whitening Strips
Teeth whitening strips typically contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which are the active ingredients responsible for the whitening effect. While these chemicals are generally considered safe for adults, their effects on breastfeeding infants are not well-documented. Some sources suggest that the amount of peroxide absorbed into the bloodstream is minimal, and thus, the risk to a nursing infant may be low. However, this remains a point of contention among dental professionals.
Recommendations from Dental Care Providers
Many dentists recommend that breastfeeding women avoid teeth whitening products altogether. This caution is echoed by various dental care providers who highlight that while the whitening strips may not pose a significant risk, the safest approach is to refrain from using them during this sensitive period.
Conversely, some brands, like SNOW® Oral Care, claim their whitening strips are free from harmful chemicals and are marketed as a safer option for breastfeeding mothers. However, this claim should be approached with caution, as individual reactions can vary, and the long-term effects on infants remain largely unstudied.
Conclusion
In summary, while there is no clear evidence that using Oral B teeth whitening strips while breastfeeding is harmful, the prevailing advice from health professionals is to exercise caution. If you are considering whitening your teeth during this time, it may be wise to consult with your healthcare provider or dentist to discuss your specific situation and explore safer alternatives. Ultimately, prioritizing the health of both mother and child should guide your decision-making process.

Can you use oral B whitening strips when breastfeeding?

There are no conclusive findings but opinions are divided. Many dentists feel that there is no harm in going for teeth whitening during breast feeding months because the chemical that is used in teeth whitening is peroxide and it is in such a small amount that it will not have any ill effect on the baby’s system.

When should you not use teeth whitening strips?

When to Avoid Whitening Strips

  1. You have existing oral health issues like cavities, worn enamel, periodontal disease, or exposed roots.
  2. You wear braces.
  3. You have crowns, fillings, or other dental restorations that will not be whitened by a home kit.

Is it safe to use teeth whitening strips while pregnant?

Teeth whitening strips often include hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide to remove stains from teeth. The American Dental Association advises pregnant women to postpone teeth whitening until after pregnancy to avoid potential dental complications.

Can you use whitening strips while breastfeeding?

The American Pregnancy Association and the American Dental Association suggest waiting until after you’re no longer pregnant or nursing before using teeth whitening products or undergoing procedures just as an extra safety measure.

Is teeth whitening kit safe for breastfeeding?

Tooth whitening
Whilst it is unlikely that any significant transfer of the agents used into breastmilk will take place, it is unlikely that urgent treatment is necessary and can be delayed until breastfeeding has finished naturally.

How to whiten teeth when breastfeeding?

Teeth whitening is completely safe for breastfeeding moms. The peroxide-based whiteners used in both in-office whitening and take-home kits will not be absorbed into your bloodstream, so they will not end up in your breastmilk.

Are Oral B whitening strips safe?

Oral-B 3DWhite Whitestrips use the same enamel-safe whitening ingredient used by dentist.

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.

Why can’t I whiten my teeth while breastfeeding?

Can I Have My Teeth Whitened While I’m Breastfeeding? Yes! Teeth whitening is completely safe for breastfeeding moms. The peroxide-based whiteners used in both in-office whitening and take-home kits will not be absorbed into your bloodstream, so they will not end up in your breastmilk.

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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