How Long Do Teeth Whitening Strips Last?

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Written by The Independence Reviews Team
Original publish date: Jun 4, 2024, 07:54 PM
Last updated: Jun 4, 2024, 07:55 PM
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Let’s be honest — professional teeth whitening packages are pretty expensive and may require you to visit your dentist frequently. But what if you could get whiter teeth from the comfort of your home, that too, at an affordable price? That’s exactly what teeth whitening strips are for. Many users wonder, however, how long the effects of these whitening strips last.

What Are Teeth Whitening Strips?

Teeth whitening strips are thin pieces of flexible plastic coated in a gel that contains whitening agents like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. You apply them directly to your teeth, where they sit snugly against your enamel to do their magic. It’s super convenient and definitely less of a hassle than some other whitening methods.

Now, if you’re wondering how long the effects last, well, it typically ranges from 3 to 6 months. This varies based on the product’s quality and how you take care of your teeth afterward. It’s like getting your car waxed—the upkeep is just as important as the initial polish.

Safety First

Before you jump in, let’s talk safety. The American Dental Association (ADA) gives a thumbs up to strips that carry its Seal of Acceptance, so that’s a good starting point. However, even the best strips can cause some side effects like tooth sensitivity and gum irritation. This happens because the peroxide in the strips can temporarily mess with your dental nerves and irritate soft tissues if not applied correctly.

So, here’s the deal:

  • Follow the instructions: This can’t be stressed enough. Stick to the recommended application time and frequency to minimize risks.
  • Consult your dentist: Especially if you’ve got dental concerns like fillings, crowns, or super sensitive teeth. A quick check-up can save you a lot of trouble down the line.

Effectiveness and Limitations

Teeth whitening strips are great for lifting external stains and giving you a brighter smile, but they have their limits. They won’t change the colour of crowns, veneers, or anything that’s not natural tooth enamel. Also, if you’ve got some serious staining or you’re expecting a blinding white, professional treatments might be more up your alley since over-the-counter strips have lower concentrations of active ingredients.

Choosing the Right Strips

When you’re shopping around, keep these pointers in mind:

  • Check the ingredients: Look for hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide in the list. These are the gold standards for teeth whitening.
  • Seek out reviews and ADA approval: User reviews can be incredibly helpful, and products with the ADA Seal of Acceptance are a safe bet.
  • Understand the usage instructions: Be crystal clear on how long and how often you should use the strips to avoid overdoing it.

How To Use Them

Using whitening strips is pretty straightforward:

  1. Prep your teeth: Brushing your teeth right before applying strips isn’t recommended since it can irritate your gums. Just make sure your teeth are clean and dry.
  2. Apply the strips: Peel them off the backing and align them with your teeth. Press gently and fold the excess over the back of your teeth for a snug fit.
  3. Time it right: Leave them on as directed—usually about 30 minutes. Resist the urge to keep them on longer, thinking it’ll boost the effects—it won’t and can actually harm your teeth.
  4. Repeat as needed: Most kits recommend a daily application for about two weeks for full results.

While teeth whitening strips are a fantastic tool for enhancing your smile, they’re just one part of a broader oral health regimen. Regular brushing, flossing, and check-ups with your dentist are irreplaceable.

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