Is it safe for patients with periodontal disease get their teeth whitened?

It should be: Getting your teeth whitened should not affect the status of your periodontal disease. However, the gum tissue may become irritated from the whitening chemical, which may appear as a worsening of your disease. Always consult your periodontist before undergoing any type of bleaching procedure.

That depends: First your periodontal disease must be under control. You should only use milder whitening products, such as crest whitestrips, for at home bleaching. If you need to use stronger bleaching products it should only be done under the care of a dentist who is familiar with your periodontal condition. Products that are too strong would not be safe for your gum tissues and can lead to problems.

Yes and no: If you have periodontal disease, you may consider having it treated prior to considering any type of cosmetic therapy. This is because periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss and, in addition to other systemic effects that are well documented, can complicate and worsen the appearance of the teeth.

Sure: But remember, only the enamel or crown of the tooth will respond to the bleaching. If you have gum recession and some of the root is showing, it will not whiten like the rest of the tooth.