7 Important Questions You May Have About Teeth Whitening Strips

Teeth whitening strips have become increasingly popular now that home kits are available to consumers. Whitening strips are a more affordable, convenient alternative to making an appointment with the dentist in hopes for whiter teeth. But consumers have a lot of questions about whitening their teeth using at-home gel strips. They want to know the strips are safe and effective before applying them to their teeth.

The aim of this article is to answer these questions and more to help consumers better understand what is involved with whitening at home and if they are going to see the results they had hoped for.

#1 Are Teeth Whitening Strips Safe?

If instructions are followed properly according to the manufacturer, then they should be safe. The ADA monitors the development of tooth whitening products and recommends speaking to a dentist before any whitening treatment.

According to Humana.com, one ingredient to look out for and avoid is chlorine dioxide as it can harm the enamel on your teeth. Here are some teeth whitening strip reviews with a list of the ingredients.

Some might think that teeth sensitivity while using white strips is a sign that whitening strips are bad for your teeth. Teeth sensitivity is common when using whitening products and it is likely down to the peroxide content of the gel on the strip. It doesn't necessarily mean that it is harming the enamel of your teeth.

There are strips designed for patients with sensitive teeth and the formula is less concentrated, usually around 6% peroxide. If you experience sensitivity while using whitening strips that is too much to handle, then stop using the strips and see your dentist to check if there is a deeper issue.

#2 Should you Brush Teeth Before Whitening Strips or Brush Teeth After White Strips?

Crest advises patients not to brush immediately before applying whitening strips. This can lead to gum irritation. Besides, brushing your teeth after applying white strips will help to get rid of any gel residue that was left behind. Remember to brush teeth gently.

#3 Is Sleeping with Teeth Whitening Strips Ok?

For safety purposes it is important to use the whitening strips according to the manufacturers instructions. It is not recommended to leave them on overnight. That being said, if you accidentally left them on overnight you may experience sensitive teeth and/or gum irritation. There is no need to panic, but if you are worried about it see your dentist.

#4 Can Teeth Whitening Strips Expire?

Whitening strips do have expiry dates. Can you use expired teeth whitening strips? Even if the strips were still safe to use after the expiry date, it is not recommended to do so. The manufacturers have expiry dates in place for a reason. The whitening gel may not be as effective past this date.

#5 What are the Active Ingredients in Teeth Whitening Strips?

Most whitening strips contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide at different concentrations as the active whitening ingredient. Peroxide is an enamel-safe teeth whitening ingredient that is also used by dentists.

Orax PearlGuard Pro whitening strips use 1% sodium chlorite as the active whitening ingredient instead of hydrogen peroxide and are suitable for sensitive teeth. According to Orax, this is the safest teeth whitening strip formula.

#6 What is the Cause of Teeth Whitening Strips White Spots?

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White spots on your teeth that appear after using teeth whitening strips are temporary and should go away in a few hours. They are caused by a loss of water from the tooth enamel and are not harmful.

It could also be that the whitening has made stains caused by hypocalcification more visible.

#7 Do Teeth Whitening Strips Work?

Many people have had success using whitening strips at home. Sometimes it is difficult to notice the difference because the strips slowly whiten over time. Try taking a before and after picture in the same lighting to see if there is a noticeable difference from beginning to end of treatment period.

If instructions are followed properly and depending on the state of your teeth, you should see results in a few days. Most whitening strips use peroxide as the active whitening ingredient. Peroxide is the same ingredient used at the dental office because it is effective in whitening teeth. Typically the peroxide concentration is higher at the dental office, which means it just takes a little longer to whiten at home with a lower concentration.

Teeth Whitening Strips Before & After Photo

Conclusion

Over the counter whitening strips have been an effective, less expensive teeth whitening option for many patients who are looking for an alternative to whitening at the dental office. It is still recommended to speak to your dentist before considering either option to make sure it is right for you. If you choose to whiten at home, remember to follow the manufacturer's instructions to achieve the best results.

Have at-home whitening strips worked for you? Share your experience with us in the comments section!

Aurora is the lead editor here at pearlywhytes.com. She is one of those people who actually likes going to the dentist. She loves to write about anything health related, but oral health is her most passionate topic. Her free time is spent partaking in family activities and experimenting in the kitchen.

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