Teeth whitening strips are a convenient method for improving the brightness of a smile at home. This cosmetic treatment often causes a temporary increase in saliva production, which concerns many users. People frequently worry about the safety of ingesting the mixture of excess saliva and the gel during application. Understanding the product components and the body’s reaction to accidental ingestion can help alleviate this common concern.
Chemical Composition of Whitening Strips
The whitening action relies on peroxide-based compounds that penetrate tooth enamel to break down stain molecules. The two main active ingredients are hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide. Carbamide peroxide is a stable compound that releases hydrogen peroxide, the primary bleaching agent, when exposed to water. The concentration of these peroxides in at-home strips is typically low, generally ranging from 3% to 15% for hydrogen peroxide and 10% to 22% for carbamide peroxide. This concentration is significantly less than professional-grade treatments.
The rest of the gel formula consists of inactive ingredients that serve various purposes. These often include thickeners like glycerin and carbomer, which help the gel adhere to the teeth. Components such as sodium hydroxide are used to adjust the pH level for safe oral use. These inactive components contribute to consistency and user experience but pose no significant risk when accidentally swallowed in small amounts.
Safety Assessment of Ingestion
Manufacturers advise against intentionally swallowing the whitening gel. However, accidentally ingesting the small amounts mixed with saliva is generally considered safe for healthy adults. The peroxide concentration is highly diluted by the increased saliva flow, minimizing potential harm. Once the diluted gel reaches the stomach, the body’s natural enzymes and acids quickly neutralize and break down the peroxides.
Minor and temporary side effects can occur due to the oxidative nature of the peroxides. These effects might include mild, transient irritation of the throat or stomach lining, or a slight feeling of nausea. When the product is used as directed, the minimal amount of swallowed gel passes through the system without lasting issues. Ingesting a large quantity or a highly concentrated formula can lead to more pronounced symptoms, such as stomach upset, vomiting, or diarrhea. Any severe reaction or persistent discomfort requires stopping use and seeking medical advice.
Techniques for Saliva Management
The most effective way to manage saliva flow is to minimize its contact with the gel and avoid excessive swallowing. A simple action is to gently spit out any pooling saliva and gel mixture into a sink or tissue as it accumulates. This frequent expulsion reduces the total amount of material that could be accidentally swallowed during treatment.
Sitting upright or slightly leaning forward uses gravity to direct excess saliva away from the throat, making management easier. Alternatively, reclining in a supine position helps pool saliva toward the back of the throat, allowing it to be swallowed naturally without interfering with the strips. It is also helpful to minimize unnecessary mouth and tongue movements, as movement stimulates salivary flow. Once the designated treatment time is complete, immediately remove the strips. Rinsing the mouth thoroughly with water helps remove any remaining gel residue and excess saliva.