According to the American Dental Association, one whitening strip effectively whitens teeth. The strips are coated in a gel that contains hydrogen-peroxide or carbamide-peroxide.
The strips can improve the color of your teeth by a shade or two in just a few days. In just a few short days, they can change the color of your teeth by one or two shades. 6
While whitening strips may not be as effective as office whitening methods, they are a good alternative for at-home use.
What stains can or cannot be removed by whitening strips
Stains can be removed with whitening strips. This can vary depending on the type and severity of the stain.
They can remove stains caused by:
Age — As we age, our teeth naturally become darker and yellower. Whitening strips can help brighten the colors.
Discoloration on the outside — These stains are caused by food, beverages, and even smoking.
The internal discoloration is the type of stain that whitening strips cannot remove. These stains are internal, so whitening your teeth can be difficult. The best way to remove internal discoloration is by having your teeth professionally whitened.
How to use Whitening Strips
The basic steps for most whitening strips are the same. They do differ from one product to another. Follow the instructions to ensure safe and effective results.
The following are basic instructions on how to apply an at-home whitening strip:
Remove the upper strip and lower strip of the package
Use clean scissors to trim the strips to the exact height you require.
Remove the thin plastic layer covering the adhesive
Place each strip gently on your teeth
Do not let the strips touch the gums.
The box will tell you how long to leave the strips on.
Remove the strips
Rinse your mouth immediately with water
Refrain from brushing your teeth at least 2 hours after the event.
Follow the instructions on the box to repeat the process.
It would help if you brushed your teeth before using whitening strips. Do not brush your teeth at least 30 min before you use them. This can cause gum irritation.
What is in the Whitening Strips Ingredients
These ingredients are commonly found in teeth whitening strips.
Polyethylene
The majority of whitening strips consist of polyethylene. Polyethylene is one of the world’s most popular plastics. It’s lightweight, flexible, and non-toxic, making it ideal for the base of a whitening strip.
Hydrogen Peroxide or Carbamide Peroxide
They are natural and safe bleaching agents. These are safe and natural bleaching agents. 2
PVP (Polyvinylpyrrolidone) and Carbomer
They are both adhesives. These adhesives help the whitening strips adhere to your teeth. These two chemicals are both non-toxic and safe. However, if they are used too much, they can irritate the gums.
Water
The gel contains water to avoid carbomer drying out your teeth.
PEG (Polymerization Ethylene Glycol)
Humectants, PEGs. They are commonly used as thickeners in cosmetics. The PEG thickens the gel, making it sticky.
Glycerin
Glycerin, a sweet and non-toxic substance, is used to make cosmetics. It thickens the gel to help keep the strips in place.
Acrylates Copolymer
Another common ingredient in cosmetics, such as whitening strips, is Acrylates Copolymer. It keeps the strips together and binds the gel.
Sodium Hydroxide
Also known as caustic soda or lye, sodium hydroxide can be found in whitening strips. It is commonly used to bring the pH of whitening strips back to neutral.
Sodium Saccharin
Artificial sweetener Sodium Saccharin can be used to enhance the taste.
Are whitening strips safe
No ingredient listed on whitening strips has been proven harmful or unhealthy. The hydrogen peroxide content of most whitening strips is 9.5%. This makes them completely safe.
Most whitening strips can be used safely when they are used correctly. 1,2,3 There are, however, a few side effects that could occur.
Whitening Strips Side Effects
You can damage your teeth’ enamel and gum tissues if you use whitening strips longer or more often than recommended.
The following are other possible side effects:
Yellow spots or gray spots — If the strips are not appropriately applied, uneven results can occur.
Allergic Reactions — Although rare, an allergic reaction can occur if you are allergic to adhesives
Tooth Sensitivity — If the enamel of your teeth is stripped away, it can expose your dentin, which causes sensitivity to high and low temperatures.
Gum Tissue Damage — Frequent use may irritate and damage the soft tissues of the gums
Disruption of the oral microbiome — Peroxide is used in whitening gels to kill bacteria. If too many are killed, this can cause problems with oral health.
There are many reasons why you should whiten your teeth
People notice your smile first. A genuine smile can make a lasting impact.
You can improve the appearance of your teeth and brighten your smile by whitening your teeth. Teeth whitening can also have the following benefits:
Looking younger
Boost your confidence
Remove stains from a damaged tooth
Remove external stains
The availability of whitening strips makes them a good choice for home use. Whitening strips can be fast, cheap, and effective.
Who shouldn’t use whitening strips
While whitening strips can be relatively safe in small quantities, large amounts of chemicals may be hazardous. The warning that whitening strips are not for anyone under 12 is a good example.
You may want to avoid using whitening strips if you have sensitive enamel or damaged gums. If you misuse whitening strips, the chemicals can cause further damage to your mouth.
What are the best whitening strips
The Crest whitening strip is one of the most effective on the market today. The dental whitening kit can produce visible results in at least 24 hours.
The Crest whitening strips includes:
Crest Whitestrips 3D Glamorous White
Crest Whitestrips Sensitive
The strips conform to your teeth’s shape, helping you avoid slipping. These strips are easy to use, and they don’t interfere with your ability to talk, drink, or work.
The ADA has approved both products, which means they are safe and effective if used correctly. Each kit includes 14-16 full whitening treatments with an upper and lower strip.
