Teeth whiteners and mouth cancer

There is no proof that tooth whiteners cause mouth cancer. But there has been very little research done into a possible connection between the two. On this page there is information on
-The theory of a link between tooth whiteners and mouth cancer
-Reducing any possible risks of mouth cancer from tooth whiteners
Known risk factors for mouth cancer
-The theory of a link between tooth whiteners and mouth cancer
The suggestion of a possible link came about because of reports from America of two people in their 20s who had developed mouth cancer. These two people had also used tooth whiteners. This prompted a small US study in 2004 looking at 19 people with mouth cancer. This study was unable to show a link between the tooth whiteners and mouth cancer, but it was a very small study.

Reducing any possible risks of mouth cancer from tooth whiteners
In 2006, doctors in London reviewed all the available information about tooth whiteners and mouth cancer. They recommended that there should be further research. And that in the meantime, you should
Avoid swallowing the whitening substance
Not let the whitening substance touch your tongue, gums or skin
Avoid tooth whiteners if you have any sore areas in your mouth
Use a tooth whitener with a low concentration of peroxide if you are doing overnight bleaching
Avoid using tooth whiteners every night or for long periods of time
Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol if you use tooth whiteners
Known risk factors for mouth cancer
We know that most cases of mouth cancer occur in people who do one or more of the following
Smoke tobacco
Chew tobacco
Chew betel nut
Regularly drink alcohol
The best way to reduce your risk of mouth cancer is to stop smoking and not drink too much alcohol.