Can you use teeth whiteners while breastfeeding?

Can You Use Teeth Whiteners While Breastfeeding?
The question of whether it’s safe to use teeth whiteners while breastfeeding is one that many new mothers ponder as they seek to regain their pre-pregnancy smiles. The consensus among dental professionals and health experts is nuanced, with varying opinions on the safety of different whitening methods.
General Safety Considerations
Most sources indicate that caution is advised when it comes to teeth whitening during breastfeeding. While some experts assert that it is generally safe, others recommend avoiding certain products due to concerns about the chemicals involved. For instance, many dentists suggest that while the risk is low, the potential for chemicals in whitening products to enter breast milk raises valid concerns .
Types of Whitening Products
1. Whitening Strips and Gels: Many commercial whitening strips and gels contain hydrogen peroxide, which can be a concern for breastfeeding mothers. However, some brands specifically formulate their products to be safe for nursing mothers, ensuring that no harmful substances pass into breast milk.
2. Natural Alternatives: Options like activated charcoal and coconut oil are often touted as safer alternatives. These methods are generally considered non-toxic, but it’s important to note that processed forms of activated charcoal may not be safe during breastfeeding.
3. Professional Treatments: In-office whitening procedures typically use stronger agents, which might pose a higher risk. While some dentists believe that these treatments can be safe, they often recommend waiting until after breastfeeding to minimize any potential risks.
Expert Opinions
The opinions among dental professionals vary. Some assert that whitening teeth while breastfeeding is safe, emphasizing that the amount of whitening agent that could potentially enter breast milk is negligible. Others, however, recommend erring on the side of caution and suggest postponing whitening treatments until after breastfeeding is complete.
Conclusion
In summary, while many mothers may feel tempted to whiten their teeth during breastfeeding, it is crucial to approach this decision with caution. Consulting with a healthcare provider or dentist can provide personalized advice based on individual circumstances. Ultimately, if a mother chooses to proceed with whitening, opting for products specifically designed to be safe for breastfeeding is advisable.

Is teeth whitening safe while pregnant?

The American Dental Association (ADA) agrees, stating that due to the potential safety concerns regarding bleaching materials, pregnant women should delay any teeth whitening procedures.

Does teeth whitening affect baby?

However, since there isn’t enough data to say for sure whether bleaching is safe, it’s probably best to wait until after pregnancy and breastfeeding to have your teeth bleached by the dentist or to use over-the-counter teeth bleaching or whitening products. Exposure isn’t likely to harm your unborn baby.

Is it safe to use toothpaste while breastfeeding?

However, because fluoride is a drug and drugs can be traced in breast milk, we caution the use of excessive fluoride while breast feeding. Regular toothpastes and mouthwashes have a minimal amount of fluoride so they are safe.

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 hydrogen peroxide when breastfeeding?

Topical fusidic acid, hydrogen peroxide or mupirocin can all be used during breastfeeding. There is limited or no published evidence of use of these topical medicines during breastfeeding. However, there is limited systemic absorption and therefore negligible levels are expected in breast milk.

Is it safe to use Crest White Strips while breastfeeding?

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.

Can I use oral B teeth whitening strips while breastfeeding?

While many individuals can benefit from teeth whitening, it’s essential to consult with a dentist to determine if it’s a suitable option. Pregnant or breastfeeding women and individuals with certain dental conditions or allergies may need to avoid whitening treatments.

Can you use teeth whitening while breastfeeding?

Usually the chemicals which are used in teeth whitening do not pass on to the breast milk. Ultraviolet lights which are used in the dentist’s office, if you choose to get your teeth whitened in a dentist’s office, does not affect breast milk, or breast milk production.

Can I use hydrogen peroxide while breastfeeding?

Topical fusidic acid, hydrogen peroxide or mupirocin can all be used during breastfeeding. There is limited or no published evidence of use of these topical medicines during breastfeeding. However, there is limited systemic absorption and therefore negligible levels are expected in breast milk.