Gingival blanching, or the temporary whitening of gums after teeth whitening, is a common side effect. This discoloration occurs when the whitening agent accidentally contacts the soft tissue of the mouth. It is a form of irritation or a superficial chemical burn that, while alarming, typically resolves quickly without lasting damage. Understanding the cause and knowing the proper response can help you manage this symptom safely.
Understanding Gum Blanching
Gum blanching is a direct chemical reaction caused by the active ingredients in whitening products, primarily hydrogen peroxide or its precursor, carbamide peroxide. These powerful oxidizing agents are designed to break down stains but can also react with the delicate soft tissue of the gums. When the gel spills or seeps onto the gingiva, the peroxide begins its oxidizing action on the gum surface.
The tissue appears white because the peroxide temporarily restricts blood flow to the area, a phenomenon known as ischemia. This oxidizing reaction also changes the surface layer of the soft tissue, contributing to the blanched appearance. Although often referred to as a chemical burn, the effect is superficial and not a deep, permanent injury. The tissue color returns to its normal pink shade as blood flow resumes and the superficial layer recovers.
Immediate Steps for Relief and Recovery
If you notice your gums have turned white during or immediately after a whitening session, stop the treatment immediately to minimize peroxide contact. Next, thoroughly rinse your mouth to remove any remaining whitening gel from the gum line and tooth surfaces.
Rinsing with warm water or a mild saline solution (a teaspoon of salt dissolved in eight ounces of warm water) can help neutralize the gel and soothe the irritated tissue. The salt water promotes a clean environment and aids in the recovery process of the superficial irritation. You can gently apply a small amount of an emollient like Vitamin E oil directly to the blanched area.
The white appearance is generally temporary, with the color typically fading back to normal within a few hours, though minor soreness may persist for up to 24 hours. If the pain is severe, a cold compress applied to the outside of the mouth near the affected area may offer relief from discomfort. Seek professional dental attention if the whiteness or pain persists beyond 48 hours, or if you notice signs of a more severe chemical injury, such as blistering or peeling of the tissue.
Preventing Future Gum Irritation
Preventing gingival irritation during future whitening sessions relies on ensuring the gel stays confined to the tooth surface. Applying too much gel to the whitening tray is a common cause of blanching, as it overflows and contacts the gums. Using only a small, droplet-sized amount of gel per tooth compartment in the tray is sufficient to achieve results without spillage.
For at-home trays, ensuring a snug fit is important, as ill-fitting trays allow the bleaching agent to leak onto the gingiva. If using over-the-counter strips, position them precisely on the teeth and avoid overlapping them onto the soft gum tissue. Individuals with sensitivities can also consider using products with a lower concentration of hydrogen or carbamide peroxide to reduce the risk of irritation.
In professional, in-office treatments, the dentist uses specialized techniques, such as liquid rubber dams or gingival barriers, to isolate and protect the gums before applying high-concentration gels. This physical barrier prevents contact between the strong oxidizing agent and the soft tissue, significantly lowering the risk of blanching. When using at-home kits, applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly to the gums before placing the tray acts as a simple, effective barrier against minor gel overflow.