title: Chemical burn to the gingiva after misuse of an over-the-counter oral whitening mouthwash.
abstract: A well-recognized consequence of the use of tooth whitening gels and strips, particularly prescription strength formulations, is gingival irritation and tooth sensitivity. Limited information is available in the literature on the risk of gingival chemical burns associated with over-the-counter (OTC) oral whitening rinses. This case report details the development of gingival chemical burns consequent to misuse of a whitening rinse. The affected patient had rinsed for 30 seconds daily for 3-4 days but had failed to rinse with water after usage, as specified by the manufacturer. Within 2 weeks, successful resolution of the gingival injury was achieved through product withdrawal and saline rinses. Patients should be familiar with the manufacturer's designated instructions for OTC oral healthcare products and be advised to use them cautiously.
authors.forename: John K
authors.initials: JK
authors.lastname: Brooks
mesh_terms: D002057:Burns, Chemical / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology*; D005260:Female; D005881:Gingiva / Q000293:injuries*; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D009067:Mouthwashes / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004366:Nonprescription Drugs / Q000009:adverse effects*; D014073:Tooth Bleaching / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods; D058205:Tooth Bleaching Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*
chemical_list: D009067:Mouthwashes; D004366:Nonprescription Drugs; D058205:Tooth Bleaching Agents
keywords: adverse effects; chemical burn; mouthwash; oral mucosa