Typically made of a flexible plastic material that’s coated in whitening gel, teeth whitening strips can contain carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide. Either way, when you apply the strip to your teeth, the gel presses against the surface of your teeth while the trip holds it in place. Over the next several minutes, this allows the gel to penetrate the tooth and start the whitening process. For the best results, you’ll need to do several whitening treatments, depending on the state of your teeth beforehand. While this seems like a cost-effects route to possess whiter teeth, there are few downsides to using whitening strips too frequently.

An Uneven Whitening Job

No matter how carefully and precisely you apply your whitening strips, you won’t be able to grasp every nook and cranny of each tooth. There will always be small cracks and crevasses the strip can’t reach. Even though you’ll be able to whiten the same areas consistently with careful application, the surfaces that are left untouched will stay the same as everything else gets whiter, making those darker areas more noticeable.

The Dangers of Gum Problems

The bleaching aspect of teeth whitening strips is an important part of the entire whitening process. While it might not be as intense as the gels used by dentists, the bleaching chemical is still harsh enough to damage your gum’s soft tissue. This is why it’s essential that you avoid placing the whitening strips on your gums as much as possible. Unfortunately, this is easier said than done. For more precise placement, consider cutting the strips with scissors to match your smile.

Potential Damage and Tooth Sensitivity

To be on the safer side, use whitening strips in moderation, as overuse will not only cause tooth sensitivity over time, but it will also permanently damage your tooth’s enamel and the surface below. Once your enamel has eroded, it can’t be grown back, leaving your tooth’s nerves vulnerable to temperature sensitivity, tooth decay and more severe issues. Always follow the recommended time frame and make sure your teeth are in good health before using whitening strips.

Would We Recommend Using Whitening Strips?

Teeth whitening strips are a short-term solution to brighten your teeth for an event or special occasion. However, for long-term teeth whitening effects that are safe, consider seeing a dentist for professional treatment.

At Dr. Jason Harvey’s dental clinic, our South Edmonton dental team are happy to help you achieve a whiter and brighter smile. We’re a family dental practice that provides services like dental surgery, teeth whitening, root canals, dental implants and more. Give our Edmonton dentists a call to book your next appointment.