Forget about those filters, the quest for a Hollywood smile goes real this time. "Are whitening strips bad for my teeth?" whispers in the back of every coffee-stained mind. But fear not, brave adventurers! Before you dive headfirst into a tub of strips, lurking online and in your local pharmacy, let's explore the sparkly (and maybe not-so-sparkly) truth.
Let us explore the risks and benefits of using white strips and ensure you make informed choices for a healthier, radiant smile.
What are Whitening Strips?
Whitening strips, available over the counter, are like super-thin plastic stickers coated with a special gel. This gel contains different ingredients:
- Hydrogen Peroxide: This is the magic stuff that makes your teeth whiter.
- Sodium Hydroxide: It's a stain fighter, helping to remove those pesky stains.
- Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP): Acts like a shield, protecting your enamel from new stains.
- Glycerin & Hydroxypropylcellulose: These buddies help the strips stick to your teeth.
How Do Whitening Strips Work?
Whitening strips use an active ingredient like hydrogen peroxide or some sort of bleach, which is effective in removing surface stains from teeth. Following the instructions, you place these strips on your upper and lower teeth for a specific time. These strips claim to remove stains in just two weeks.
Whitening strips won't work on stains that are intrinsic, or those come from within the tooth. For a diagnosis and a customized treatment plan to show off your brilliant, natural smile, speak with a dentist.
Are Whitening Strips Safe for Your Teeth?
The answer to this depends on a variety of things, like
- the type of strips you use.
- how frequently you use them.
For example, dental enamel can be entirely destroyed by whitening strips containing chlorine dioxide, which can really do more harm than good. Enamel damage cannot be repaired once it occurs, and this may raise the risk of deterioration and other problems.
Sometimes, strips without chlorine dioxide can still damage your teeth. Your dentist in Peak Dental Group encourages you to follow all instructions. These whitening strips shouldn't be used more than recommended and left on the teeth longer than the instructions say. It will only increase the risk of damage.
What are the Side Effects of Whitening Strips
Thinking about, "Are whitening strips bad for your teeth?" Well, if instructions are followed, most whitening strips can safely remove the stains from the teeth. However, side effects can still happen.
Tooth sensitivity is the most frequent adverse effect of utilizing white strips. You experience pain and suffering whether you consume hot or cold food or beverages.
You're not the only one who wants their teeth to be whiter! You also don't need to search for yourself for methods to make your grin more radiant. Consult your dentist about the most suitable methods for safely and successfully bleaching your teeth.
Do whitening strips damage teeth?
37 million Americans in 2020? Yep, that's how many craved whiter smiles, making teeth whitening strips the go-to choice for convenience and cost. But hold your horses (or whitening strips)! Discuss safety with your dentist – they'll navigate the smile-brightening world with you and reveal the path to a radiant, worry-free grin.
Guidelines for Brightening Your Smile at Home
If you're thinking of brightening your smile using those whitening strips, you must follow the guidelines:
- Hold Off on Brushing: Don't rush to brush your teeth right after using whitening strips unless the instructions say so.
- Stick to the Plan: Use the whitening strips as recommended on the packaging.
- Time Matters: Don't leave the strips on longer than the instructions say. It won't make your teeth extra white, but it could cause some issues.
- Watch Out for Ingredients: Say no to whitening strips with chlorine dioxide, and don't go over 14% hydrogen peroxide – keep it safe!
Talk to Your Dentist
Wishing you had a whiter smile? Before you grab the strips, remember that there isn't a one-size-fits-all method for teeth whitening. Strips are not for everyone, even though they might be safe when used properly. Consult Peak Dental Group's dental experts for a personalized assessment. They'll recommend the safest and most effective whitening approach for your teeth, minimizing any potential sensitivity or enamel concerns. Let Peak Dental Group help you illuminate your smile with confidence!
Conclusion
If you're thinking about trying out these teeth-whitening strips, it's better to talk to your dentist first. Don't expect instant magic. It may take time to see a real change. While at-home bleaching gets the job done, the results might not match the excellence of in-office procedures at Peak Dental Group.
Ready for that radiant smile? Call us now at 403-774-9604. You can also request an appointment online. Your journey to a dazzling smile starts with us!
FAQ
Can whitening strips damage teeth?
The majority of whitening strips are safe to use. However, the strips containing chlorine dioxide can damage the tooth enamel.
Are crest white strips safe to use?
The ADA Council on Scientific Affairs approves Crest 3D White strips because they've found that the product is safe and effectively whitens natural teeth when used as directed by the manufacturer.
Who should not use whitening strips?
People with oral health issues like cavities, worn enamel, periodontal disease, or exposed roots shouldn't use whitening strips.
