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Peroxide & Gum Disease

There are two main forms of gum disease: gingivitis and periodontitis. Both forms can result in tooth loss if they are left untreated. This is especially true if the gums become swollen and infected. The use of peroxide can help to improve gum health when it is utilized in combination with a daily oral hygiene routine.

  1. What is Gum Disease?

    • Perio.org explains that gingivitis is denoted by swollen, red gums and periodontitis develops when gingivitis goes untreated. Periodontitis causes the gums and teeth to separate. Both forms of gum disease are caused by an overgrowth of plaque, which is a sticky combination of food debris, mucus and bacteria.

    What Kind and How Much?

    • There are several different types of peroxide compounds, but hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is the type that is often recommended for oral care. Two capfuls of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide can be placed in the mouth, swished and spit out after your normal evening tooth brushing routine. In fact, Joseph M. Ascenzi, author of the book "Handbook of Disinfectants and Antiseptics," reports that the daily use of hydrogen peroxide is successful in destroying the bacterial microorganisms that contribute to gum disease.

    Hydrogen Peroxide Instead of Mouthwash?

    • In addition to brushing, mouthwashes are effective in killing the bacteria that contributes to gum disease; but it may not be safe. Commercial brand mouthwashes contain a high alcohol content as well as, sugar and artificial coloring. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that the alcohol in some commercial mouthwashes has even been linked to certain types of oral cancer. Therefore, hydrogen peroxide may be a healthier alternative to mouthwash when it comes to killing the bacteria in the mouth that can lead to gum disease. The FDA has deemed 3 percent (food grade) hydrogen peroxide safe to use as a mouthwash.

    The Toothbrush

    • The toothbrush itself can be a breeding ground for bacteria, but Professor Shashi Kiran N.D. of the Department of Pedodontics and Preventative Dentistry, College of Dental Sciences, headed a study that concluded that hydrogen peroxide was effective in cleansing a toothbrush of bacteria in between brushing. The study, conducted along with Suma Sogi H.P. and Subbareddy V.V., determined that nascent oxygen and effervescence of the hydrogen peroxide is a safe and effective way to clean a toothbrush.

    Warnings

    • When hydrogen peroxide is used as a mouthwash, it is only to be swished and spit out---not swallowed. And while the use of household-grade hydrogen peroxide is relatively safe, it should never be ingested. According to Loma Linda University Medical Center, hydrogen peroxide can be toxic if too much is swallowed. Gastrointestinal symptoms as well as breathing problems and dizziness can occur. High levels of hydrogen peroxide toxicity can result in slurred speech, convulsion and coma. Medical treatment should be sought as once in the case of accidental overdose.

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