[jblehner]

Can I get my teeth professionally whitened/bleached while breastfeeding? Wasn't sure what whether that was safe or not. If not safe, why not? Thanks so much!

[Deb]

There seems to be a bit of conflicting information on this topic. Andrea has checked with many other lactation consultants that believe it is fine to bleach and whiten your teeth while breastfeeding. She also provides a quote from a lactation website.

This is from Dr. Tom Hale and from the archives:

Most teeth whitening gels contain carbamide peroxide. Carbamide peroxide
is stable while solubilized in glycerin, but upon contact with moisture,
releases hydrogen peroxide and nascent oxygen, both strong oxidizing agents.
It is used to disinfect infected lesions and for whitening of teeth and
dental appliances. Hydrogen peroxide is rapidly metabolized by
hydroperoxidases, peroxidases and catalase present in all tissues, plasma,
and saliva. Its transfer to the plasma is minimal if at all. It would be
all but impossible for any to reach breastmilk unless under extreme
overdose.

However, I also checked on this. I called my ob/gyn, Dr. Lee, and he consulted with Dr. Moritz and Dr. Dinnal, who suggested not bleaching while breastfeeding or pregnant. I also asked my dentist, Dr. Babushkin, who also recommended not doing that procedure while breastfeeding.

So the jury is still out on this one! I would recommend consulting with your own doctor and dentist for their feedback.

Take care,

Deb