What Are Teeth Whitening Strips?

Key Takeaways:

• Teeth whitening strips are an accessible and generally safe option for improving tooth whiteness. Potential side effects are minimal when used as directed.
• The effectiveness of teeth whitening strips varies by individual, largely depending on the type of tooth stains present and adherence to the product’s usage guidelines.
• Good oral hygiene and avoiding known staining agents like coffee, tobacco, and red wine are essential to maintaining the results after using whitening strips. Complementing your teeth whitening routine with Plus Ultra's Natural Toothpaste can further support the preservation of your teeth's whiteness and overall good oral health.

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The Science Behind Teeth Whitening Strips 

The effectiveness of teeth whitening strips comes from the active ingredients in the gel, usually hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, both recognized for their whitening abilities.1 Once you apply the strips, these substances break down into oxygen radicals that go through the tooth enamel's porous surface, dismantling the discoloring compounds.2 

This method zeroes in on organic stains from coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco. By dissolving the stains' molecular bonds, the strips return teeth to their original color and often make them even whiter.

Typical Ingredients Found In Teeth Whitening Strips 

Apart from the main bleaching agents, other elements play a big role in how whitening strips work and how you use them. Every ingredient in these strips serves a specific purpose: to boost the bleaching action, preserve the strip's quality, or enhance your overall experience.

Flavoring Agents

To enhance the experience, whitening strips like Plus Ultra’s Teeth Whitening Strips sometimes have added flavors (we only use natural mint!). These don't help whiten your teeth but are meant to improve the taste of the strips, making the treatment more pleasant. Flavors like mint or fruit offset any taste from the hydrogen peroxide.

Moisture Retainers

Whitening strips must stay moist to ensure the active ingredients remain effective throughout application. Moisture retainers such as glycerin are added to the gel to prevent drying.

Adhesive Polymers

Whitening strips contain adhesive polymers that cling firmly to the teeth, preventing them from shifting out of place. This stickiness lets you talk and go about your everyday activities while using the strips. These adhesives must be powerful enough to keep the strip steady and gentle enough to allow the strip to be taken off comfortably and without pain after the treatment.

Buffering Agents

Their pH level greatly influences the effectiveness and safety of whitening strips. Buffering agents are added to the strips to keep them neutral, optimizing the whitening power of the peroxide and reducing the risk of damaging the tooth enamel or irritating the gums.3 These pH regulators ensure that the whitening treatment is both effective and gentle, maintaining the health of your mouth while brightening your teeth.

Potential Side Effects And Safety Considerations 

Teeth whitening strips are generally safe when used according to their instructions. While potent, The active whitening agents are typically used in concentrations considered safe for over-the-counter products. However, some users may experience side effects, including:

• Tooth Sensitivity: This is the most common side effect, often temporary, and subsides after the treatment is completed. Plus Ultra’s teeth whitening strips use minimal yet effective ingredients and cause little to no sensitivity at all. 
• Gum Irritation: This occurs if the peroxide gel comes into prolonged contact with the gum tissue.4  Plus Ultra recommends only using our teeth whitening strips for 30-45 minutes per treatment. 
• Uneven Whitening: This may happen if the strips do not adhere properly or if teeth have varying levels of discoloration. Plus Ultra’s strips are designed to cover your teeth to help your smile shine brightest fully!

It's essential to follow the product guidelines strictly — overuse or extended exposure can damage enamel or increase sensitivity.

Expert Opinions On The Safety Of Whitening Strips 

Dental experts commonly view whitening strips as a safe and effective option for making teeth whiter if used according to the instructions. They recommend choosing products from well-known brands that comply with FDA standards for dental products, such as Plus Ultra's Premium Teeth Whitening Gel. Additionally, it's advised to consult with a dentist before starting any whitening regimen, especially for those with dental work, such as veneers or crowns, and for individuals with dental conditions or extreme tooth discoloration.

How To Use Teeth Whitening Strips

Use these step-by-step instructions to safely and effectively achieve the best whitening result. Repeat this process according to the treatment schedule, which could range from daily applications to less frequent treatments over a long period of time.

Read Instructions

Read the instructions provided by the manufacturer carefully before applying the strips.

Clean Your Teeth

Brush and floss your teeth to remove plaque or food particles. Make sure your teeth are dry. Moisture can prevent the strips from adhering properly.

Apply The Strips

Carefully remove the whitening strip from its liner. Align the strip with your gum line and press it onto your teeth, folding the excess behind for a snug fit.

Set A Timer

Leave the strips on your teeth for the duration specified in the instructions, usually between 30 minutes and an hour.5

Remove And Rinse

Gently peel the strips away from your teeth and discard them. Rinse your mouth with water to remove any remaining gel.

 

 

Tips For Best Results

Remember these suggestions when using teeth whitening strips for a better experience and result. If you follow these guidelines, you can get the most out of your whitening strips and work towards a brighter smile without much difficulty.

Consistency Is Key

Stick to the directed schedule for the full treatment duration to see the desired results.

Avoid Staining Foods And Drinks

During the treatment period, limit foods and drinks like coffee, tea, and red wine that can stain teeth while treating them.

Touch-Up Treatments

To maintain the result, consider using the strips occasionally as needed.

Monitor For Sensitivity

If you experience tooth sensitivity or gum irritation, use the strips less frequently or consult your dentist for guidance.

Duration Of Results Following The Whitening Treatment

The whitening effects from using teeth whitening strips can last anywhere from a few months to up to two years. This largely depends on each person's lifestyle, dental care routine, and the kind of stains they have. Generally, the whitening effect stays at its best for about six months before it gradually fades.

Factors Affecting The Longevity Of Results

Although teeth whitening strips can give great results, different factors can affect how long they last. Let's examine what might affect how long your teeth stay bright.

Dietary Choices  

What you eat and drink significantly influences how long your teeth retain whiteness. Dark drinks like coffee, tea, red wine and bright foods like berries and sauces are primary causes of teeth staining. To prolong the results of whitening, consider reducing your intake of these foods and drinks or rinse your mouth with water after enjoying them. 

Smoking  

Smoking is a major cause of teeth staining, with nicotine and tar leading to yellowing and deep stains that are tough to get rid of. To keep teeth white after using whitening strips, it's crucial to avoid all tobacco forms.

Oral Hygiene  

A consistent oral care routine is essential for sustaining the results of whitening strips. This means brushing regularly with whitening toothpaste, flossing daily, and getting your teeth cleaned by a dentist regularly to prevent new stains.

Genetics And Age

Factors like genes and aging can change how long your teeth stay white. Some people's enamel can fight off stains better than others, and some might see their teeth start to discolor again quickly. Additionally, teeth naturally become yellower and more stain-prone as we age, which can shorten the time whitening treatments last.

 

 

Final Thoughts

Teeth whitening strips have become popular for those looking to brighten their smile due to their ease of use, affordability, and effectiveness. However, keep in mind that while teeth whitening can improve how your smile looks, it should be done thoughtfully and, if possible, with advice from a dentist. 

While whitening strips can be useful for many, they are only part of keeping your smile healthy and bright. A comprehensive oral health strategy, like the one offered by Plus Ultra’s products, is best, with whitening treatments enhancing your approach to dental care, not dictating.

Read also:

• Should You Brush Your Teeth After Using Whitening Strips?
• Teeth Whitening Gel: Achieving A Naturally Beautiful Smile
• Whitening Strips: Achieve A Brighter Smile The Natural Way

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I choose whitening strips?

They are dentist-recommended, easy to apply, and especially effective on straight teeth. Other methods, like brushes or toothpaste, may be less effective due to lower peroxide content or shorter exposure time.

How often should I use teeth whitening strips?

The frequency depends on individual needs and the product used, but generally, it's recommended to use them once daily for a set period, followed by maintenance sessions.

Are teeth whitening strips safe?

While generally safe, they can cause tooth sensitivity or gum irritation. Following the product's instructions and consult a dentist if you have concerns is important.

Do whitening strips work on all types of stains?

They are more effective on surface stains. Deep stains or discoloration from medication or injury may not respond as well.

Can anyone use teeth whitening strips?

They are not recommended for children, pregnant women, or people with gum disease, worn enamel, cavities, or exposed roots.

How long do I leave whitening strips on my teeth?

The time varies by product, usually 20 minutes to an hour. Always follow the specific instructions on the product packaging.

Can I use whitening strips if I have sensitive teeth?

Yes, but choose strips designed for sensitive teeth and start with shorter application times to minimize discomfort.

Do whitening strips affect fillings, veneers, or crowns?

No, they only work on natural enamel and will not change the color of dental restorations.

How do I prevent tooth sensitivity when using whitening strips?

Use products designed for sensitive teeth, follow instructions carefully, and consider using toothpaste for sensitive teeth during treatment.

Can I eat or drink after using whitening strips?

To maximize effectiveness, it's best to avoid eating or drinking anything except water for a short time after using whitening strips.

Sources:

1. Müller-Heupt, L. K., Wiesmann-Imilowski, N., Kaya, S., Schumann, S., Steiger, M., Bjelopavlovic, M., Deschner, J., Al-Nawas, B., & Lehmann, K. M. (2023). Effectiveness and Safety of Over-the-Counter Tooth-Whitening Agents Compared to Hydrogen Peroxide In Vitro. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 24(3), 1956. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms24031956
2. ‌Pascolutti, M., & de Oliveira, D. (2021). A Radical-Free Approach to Teeth Whitening. Dentistry Journal, 9(12), 148. https://doi.org/10.3390/dj9120148
3. ‌Irusa, K., Alrahaem, I. A., Ngoc, C. N., & Donovan, T. (2022). Tooth whitening procedures: A narrative review. Dentistry Review, 2(3), 100055. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.dentre.2022.100055
4. ‌Colares, V. L. P., Lima, S. N. L., Sousa, N. C. F., Araújo, M. C., Pereira, D. M. S., Mendes, S. J. F., Teixeira, S. A., Monteiro, C. de A., Bandeca, M. C., Siqueira, W. L., Moffa, E. B., Muscará, M. N., & Fernandes, E. S. (2019). Hydrogen peroxide-based products alter inflammatory and tissue damage-related proteins in the gingival crevicular fluid of healthy volunteers: a randomized trial. Scientific Reports, 9(1), 1–11. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-019-40006-w
5. ‌Carey, C. M. (2014). Tooth Whitening: What We Now Know. Journal of Evidence Based Dental Practice, 14, 70–76. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jebdp.2014.02.006