Buzz
As we age, our teeth no longer remain as white and shiny as they once did. Teeth may become discolored due to various reasons, ranging from poor oral hygiene to consuming drinks that easily stain teeth, such as wine or tea. Teeth whitening strips can help remove these stains, regardless of the cause. Before using the strips, it’s a good idea to learn the correct and most effective way to use them. What do you think?
Steps
Using Teeth Whitening Strips
Read the instructions carefully. While most teeth whitening strips are used in similar ways, some brands may have different instructions. Always make sure to read the full instructions and be aware of any potential side effects before using any teeth whitening product.
- Improper use can damage your teeth and your health.
- Instructions may vary depending on the brand, so always read them carefully before use.
Brush your teeth first. Before applying teeth whitening strips, it’s important to brush your teeth. If you skip this step, food particles or bacteria might get trapped under the strips. Brushing also helps eliminate plaque that could reduce the whitening effectiveness of the strips.
- Never brush your teeth immediately before applying the whitening strips.
- Brush at least 30 minutes before applying the whitening strips.
Prepare the strips. Before applying the strips to your teeth, take a few seconds to ensure you place each strip in the correct position. Some strips are specifically designed for the upper and lower teeth, with each side having a contact surface that touches the teeth. Take time to figure out where each piece should go.
- Place the gel-coated side onto your teeth. This gel is the whitening agent and needs direct contact with your teeth to work.
- The smooth side of the strip doesn’t have any whitening gel, it only helps with application.
Apply the strips to your teeth. Make sure to position them correctly, placing the gel-coated side directly against your teeth. Ensure the strip fully covers each tooth, pressing it into the uneven areas.
- Try drying your teeth with a tissue before applying the whitening strips. This will improve the whitening results. You can also use a lip separator to stretch your lips and control saliva flow during the whitening process. A drier mouth yields better results.
- If needed, you can use a toothbrush to smooth out the strips.
- Covering all your teeth ensures even whitening across your smile.
- Do not let the strips touch or cover your gums, as this could cause irritation.
Wait for the strips to work. Once the strips are applied, be patient and let them take effect. Different brands may have slightly different recommended times, so be sure to read the instructions carefully. Avoid touching the strips as this could reduce their effectiveness.
- Generally, you should wait about 30 minutes before removing the strips.
- To keep your teeth dry during the whitening process, try lying back on your bed with your mouth slightly open. This reduces saliva production, which can interfere with the whitening. Try breathing through your mouth to help dry your mouth.
Remove the strips. After the recommended time for each brand has passed, remove the strips. Take them off your teeth and dispose of them once the suggested time has passed.
- Do not leave the strips on for longer than recommended, as this could cause irritation and sensitivity in your teeth and gums.
- Leaving the strips on longer does not improve whitening results.
- Rinse your mouth after using the whitening strips. Try rinsing with water and brushing your teeth to make sure the gel is completely removed from your mouth.
- For best results, avoid eating anything for at least one hour after the treatment.
Repeat the teeth whitening process. The whitening strips gradually take effect as they come into contact with the whitening agent. You need to repeat this process before you notice a significant decline in the whiteness of your teeth. Continue using the strips as recommended for the best results.
- Use twice a day, for 30 minutes each time.
- Follow the recommendation of at least 14 days of use.
- Results can last for approximately 4 months.
Precautions When Using Teeth Whitening Strips
Avoid swallowing the gel from the strips. Some whitening strips contain hydrogen peroxide, which can be toxic if ingested. Be careful not to swallow the gel or saliva while the strips are on your teeth.
- If you accidentally swallow a small amount of gel, don’t worry too much. A small amount likely won't cause any symptoms.
Discontinue use if you experience tooth sensitivity. The chemicals in whitening strips may cause tooth sensitivity and gum discomfort. This can happen if the gel comes into direct contact with your gums, if the strips are left on too long, or if your teeth are particularly sensitive to whitening agents.
- Stop using the strips if you start feeling tooth or gum sensitivity.
- Consult your dentist to see if using whitening strips is safe for you.
Consult your dentist before using any teeth whitening product. Not all whitening strips use the same chemicals or processes, and some may worsen existing dental issues or even cause new ones. Ask your dentist if whitening strips and other whitening products are suitable for your teeth.
Tu Anh Vu, DMD
Dentist
Dentist
Expert warning: Do not use whitening strips if you are wearing braces, dentures, or undergoing any dental restoration treatments such as fillings or crowns.
Dental Care
Brush your teeth regularly. Maintaining a regular brushing routine is an excellent way to keep your teeth white and healthy. Make sure to brush correctly and frequently for the best results. Take the time to brush thoroughly, ensuring you don’t miss any teeth.
- Brush twice a day, for about 10 minutes each time.
- Be gentle when brushing to avoid wearing down tooth enamel or damaging your gums. Always use a soft-bristled toothbrush, and don’t use a new toothbrush right after treatment or after consuming soda, as your enamel is weakened and more prone to abrasion.
- You can use whitening toothpaste along with whitening strips, but make sure to choose one with over 1100 ppm fluoride, as it benefits sensitive teeth. Try alternating between whitening toothpaste and fluoride toothpaste for two weeks, ideally using it before bed.
Use mouthwash. In addition to regular brushing and flossing, using mouthwash can help improve oral health. Mouthwash kills bacteria and washes away plaque that may have come loose during brushing and flossing.
- Try to rinse with mouthwash for at least 30 seconds before spitting it out.
- If your mouthwash is too strong, dilute it with some water.
- Along with whitening strips, you might need to use a whitening mouthwash for additional benefits.
Daily flossing for oral hygiene. While it can be challenging, flossing is a crucial step in maintaining oral health. Floss works effectively by breaking down plaque and tartar that may remain after brushing, which brushing alone might not remove.
- Start with a piece of dental floss about the length of your arm.
- Wrap the floss around your middle fingers, pulling it tight between your hands.
- Move the floss up and down between your teeth.
- Curve the floss around the side of each tooth in a 'C' shape.
- Move the floss up and down the tooth’s surface to clean it properly.
Avoid certain foods. Some foods can stain your teeth, turning them yellow, while others can erode enamel, damaging your teeth and causing pain. While whitening your teeth, try to avoid the following foods and drinks:
- Coffee, tea, and wine, as they can stain teeth.
- Sweets or highly acidic beverages like orange juice or soda, which can erode your enamel, cause cavities, and lead to other oral health problems.
Visit your dentist. Regular dental checkups are a great way to keep your teeth healthy. Dentists can address small dental issues before they become serious, while also providing consistent care.
- Your dentist may perform whitening treatments for you and help track your whitening progress.
Advice
- Consult with your dentist before using any whitening products to ensure they are suitable for you.
- Ensure you use whitening strips for at least 14 days to achieve the best results.
Warning
- Do not swallow toothpaste, mouthwash, or any gel present in whitening strips.
- Do not leave whitening strips on your teeth longer than recommended in the instructions.
- Discontinue use if you experience tooth or gum sensitivity.
