I Left Teeth Whitening Strips on All Night – Now What?

Whitening strips have become a go-to solution for achieving a brighter smile at home. But what happens if you accidentally fall asleep with them on? If you’re reading this in a panic, don’t worry—this article will walk you through the risks, potential side effects, and what you should do next.

Potential Risks of Leaving Whitening Strips on Overnight

Increased Tooth Sensitivity

• Whitening agents penetrate deeper into the enamel, exposing dentin, which contains nerve endings.
• You may experience sharp pain or discomfort when consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods.

Gum Irritation or Chemical Burns

• The prolonged exposure to peroxide can irritate or even burn the gum tissue.
• This can cause redness, soreness, and peeling of the gums.

Weakened Tooth Enamel

Overuse of whitening strips can erode enamel, making teeth more vulnerable to cavities and decay.

Uneven Whitening or White Spots

Some areas of your teeth may become whiter than others, leading to a blotchy appearance.

Temporary White Gums

If the whitening gel sits on your gums too long, they may temporarily turn white or feel sensitive.

• Rinse Your Mouth Thoroughly: 

1. Remove any remaining whitening gel by rinsing with lukewarm water.
2. Avoid using mouthwash that contains alcohol, as it may cause further irritation.

• Brush Gently with a Fluoride Toothpaste:

1. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to help remineralize your enamel.
2. Avoid whitening or charcoal toothpaste, as they may be too abrasive.

• Apply a Desensitizing Gel or Toothpaste:

1. If you experience sensitivity, try using a potassium nitrate-based toothpaste (e.g., Sensodyne or Colgate Sensitive).
2. Applying fluoride gel (available at pharmacies) can also help strengthen enamel.

• Avoid Hot, Cold, or Acidic Foods: Stay away from foods and drinks like coffee, citrus fruits, and soda for at least 24 hours to prevent further irritation.

• Moisturize Your Gums: Apply a vitamin E gel or coconut oil to soothe gum irritation.

• Drink Plenty of Water: Hydration helps flush out residual peroxide and aids in gum healing.

To avoid this mistake in the future, follow these safe whitening practices:

• Set a Timer – Always follow the recommended time on the packaging (usually 30–60 minutes).
• Use Strips as Directed – Never exceed the suggested frequency of use (usually once a day).
• Avoid Sleeping with Strips On – If you tend to forget, set an alarm as a reminder.
• Consider Professional Whitening – If you want long-lasting and safe results, professional teeth whitening is a better option.

If you experience severe pain, prolonged sensitivity, or visible damage to your gums and enamel, schedule an appointment with your dentist. At Legacy Dental in Salt Lake City, UT, we provide expert care to restore your smile safely.

Leaving whitening strips on overnight is a common mistake, but the damage isn’t always permanent. By following the right steps, you can minimize sensitivity and protect your teeth from long-term harm. If you’re experiencing severe discomfort, don’t hesitate to contact Legacy Dental for professional guidance and whitening solutions tailored to your needs.

Need professional teeth whitening? Call: (801) 210-8086 Legacy Dental today!