What You Should Know Before Using Teeth Whitening Strips

Most individuals dream of showing off the perfect pearly white smile, yet it is a hard task for many to successfully achieve. Our team at Coral Pointe Dental & Orthodontics offers several cosmetic treatments designed to improve the appearance, including professional teeth whitening. However, there are cheaper alternatives to teeth whitening in the form of strips. Before using teeth whitening strips, our team urges you to read through the following information.

How Do Teeth Whitening Strips Work?

Teeth whitening strips are made up of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide that is in gel form on a thin plastic. The strips are applied on the teeth for a period of time which allows the gel to go through the teeth and bleach the enamel. They can be used for a period of two or three weeks. Despite the appeal, there are several issues to consider prior to use including the following:

• Uneven whitening. Due to the material of the strips, there will be areas where the material will not touch the entirety of the enamel. Uneven areas will be increasingly noticeable with yellow edges.
• Danger of Gum Problems. The harsh chemical found in teeth whitening strips can be damaging to the gum and cause sensitivity. Other methods can be more customized to your teeth in order to lessen the gum contact.
• Tooth Sensitivity and Possible Damage. Using an increased use of the strips can be damaging to teeth and even cause decay if teeth are in a poor state.

Should You Use Whitening Strips?

If you are interested in using whitening strips, then we encourage you to first speak with a member of our staff. They can help you to see if a professional teeth whitening treatment may be a better option for your smile.