With so many options out there for improving your smile, it’s difficult to find the right teeth-whitening product for you.
Here at Canyon View Dental, we always recommend professional teeth whitening since it’s the safest, most effective, and least uncomfortable method (while still being affordable).
However, we know that most people like to weigh their options.
So, let’s take a second to talk about teeth whitening strips, so you can make a more confident decision.
What are teeth whitening strips?
Teeth whitening strips are small strips of material coated in whitening chemicals.
Usually, when we talk about dental whitening strips, we’re referring to the kind you buy over the counter. These are affordable, but they can be difficult to use without irritating the gums.
Some dentists provide whitening strips as well, but other treatment mediums are simply more effective in the context of professional teeth whitening.
How do they work?
Whitening strips are covered in whitening agents such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These chemicals penetrate the first few layers of teeth, reacting with stain-causing components in your enamel.
Do they really work?
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), teeth whitening strips can help effectively remove stains on teeth and whiten them.
Note, however, that whitening strips won’t work on replacement teeth (including dental crowns).
At-home whitening strips contain lower concentrations of whitening compounds than dentist-supplied products. They certainly do work, but you shouldn’t develop unrealistic expectations about their efficacy.
If you’re considering using over-the-counter teeth whitening strips, we recommend giving us a call or arranging a visit. We can answer any questions you may have and teach you how to use these products while causing minimal discomfort.
What to look for
When shopping for whitening strips, you may wish to consider the following:
- Ingredients: Opt for products that contain proven-effective ingredients, including carbamide and hydrogen peroxide.
- Dentist approval: It is always best to get advice from your Canyon View Dentist if you’re unsure as to the efficacy of a dental product. We’ll help walk you through the process.
- Customer reviews: Reviews rarely lie, so if your heart is set on a storebought route, do your research.
How to use whitening strips
You should carefully follow any information on the product’s packaging and instructions from your Canyon View Dentist before using whitening strips.
Whitening strips apply directly to your teeth, but be careful not to cover too much gum as you apply them. After application, you’ll usually have to keep it in place for 5 to 50 minutes, depending on the product.
It’s best to clean your teeth before applying a whitening strip, but wait for a bita after brushing to ensure that no residual fluoride gets between the strip and your teeth.
Pros and cons
Whitening strips are like the fast food of teeth whitening options. They work decently, they’re convenient, and they’re highly affordable.
However, they also have downsides, including:
- Tooth sensitivity (not a regular occurrence)
- Gum irritation
- Limited effectiveness
It is quite common for people to not achieve the results they were expecting, and you may have to repeat sessions over multiple days to get any noticeable results at all.
Are teeth whitening strips safe?
Yes, if you use them correctly and according to a dentist’s advice. However, some brands are harsher than others, so you should always follow instructions closely.
Alternatives to whitening strips
In-office teeth whitening at a dental office is generally preferable to other methods, as it produces the strongest results (by far) while also being extremely safe.
However, over-the-counter (OTC) alternatives do exist, such as whitening toothpastes and mouthwashes. These generally have very mild whitening effects, but can be convenient.
Teeth whitening with Canyon View Dentistry
We highly recommend whitening your teeth with us as we have the experience and knowledge to help you achieve the result you desire.
Our teeth whitening services are fast and efficient. We know how to protect your gums and focus on your oral health while achieving amazing results.
After a short appointment, we’ll send you home with custom-made whitening trays to apply your whitening gel. You’ll wear them for 3-4 hours every night until you reach your desired shade.
To find out more about our teeth whitening services, schedule a visit today.
Or:
- Call us at 406-375-1192
- Email us at hello@canyonviewdental.com
Our Canyon View Dental team is proud to offer professional dental services to the people of Hamilton, MT, and the surrounding areas.
