Gingival barrier materials are used to protect the patient's gums and soft tissues during in-office whitening or air abrasion procedures. These resins can be self- or light-cured and are applied at the gingival margins prior to the start of treatment. Gingival barriers should cure to be strong enough to protect the gingiva, while remaining easy to remove once the procedure is complete. Be sure to keep some gingival barrier material on hand if your practice provides in-office bleaching or air abrasion treatments.