Is teeth whitening safe with gum disease

Whitening should be planned around the cause and activity of gum disease because inflamed or exposed gum tissue can react to peroxide gel.

Gingivitis affects the gum margin; periodontitis affects tooth support. Whitening can irritate inflamed gums and exposed roots and may be deferred while disease is active.

A dentist checks bleeding, recession, calculus, pockets, decay, and restorations first. Maintain gentle brushing and interdental cleaning while gum treatment is addressed.

Seek care for spontaneous bleeding, pus, loose teeth, recession, sensitivity, or swelling instead of whitening over these signs.

Ask whether disease is active, whether root exposure changes the plan, and how crowns or fillings will look after whitening.