Is using hydrogen peroxide as a mouthwash safe
Hydrogen peroxide mouth rinses can irritate oral tissues when concentration, dilution, contact time or swallowing is unsuitable.
The short answer
Hydrogen peroxide mouth rinses can irritate oral tissues when concentration, dilution, contact time or swallowing is unsuitable. It is not a substitute for brushing with fluoride toothpaste, cleaning between teeth, or treatment of the cause of a dental problem.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
Hydrogen peroxide is an oxidising liquid that can release oxygen when it contacts tissues and organic material. The effect depends on the product formulation, concentration, dilution, exposure duration, frequency and whether the rinse is swallowed.
What can you do next?
Do not use a household or concentrated product in the mouth, and do not mix it with other chemicals. Check the label and ask a dentist or pharmacist about the exact product, especially if you have ulcers, gum disease, recent dental work or difficulty spitting.
When should you seek dental care?
Stop rinsing and seek advice for burning, peeling or whitening of the gums, worsening ulcers, persistent sensitivity, swelling or pain. If a substantial amount is swallowed or breathing, vomiting or severe irritation develops, obtain urgent medical advice.
What should you ask the dentist?
Show the dentist the exact bottle and ask whether its ingredients and concentration suit your mouth. Ask what problem you are trying to treat and which established oral-care method addresses that problem.
Frequently asked questions
Can hydrogen peroxide whiten fillings?
No. It can change natural tooth colour but does not change the shade of fillings, crowns or veneers.
What if my gums turn white?
Stop the rinse and seek dental advice, particularly if burning, peeling or pain continues.