A bright, confident smile is something many people desire, and in the quest for whiter teeth, whitening dental strips have become one of the most popular and accessible at-home solutions.
They offer a convenient and effective way to lift away common stains caused by coffee, tea, and other foods, without the time and expense of a professional dental procedure.
However, to get the best and safest results, it's essential to use them correctly. For a beginner, the process can seem a little confusing.
What Are Whitening Dental Strips and Why Are They Needed?
What they are: A whitening dental strip is a thin, flexible piece of plastic that is coated with a whitening gel. This gel contains a low concentration of a whitening agent, most commonly hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These are the same types of ingredients that dentists use in professional whitening treatments, but in a milder, safer formulation for at-home use.
Each kit comes with a set of strips: a longer one designed to fit over your top row of teeth and a shorter one for your bottom row.
Why they are needed: Over time, the enamel on our teeth can become stained. This is a natural process that can be sped up by certain lifestyle factors.
Common Causes of Stains: The most common culprits are dark-colored foods and drinks like coffee, tea, red wine, and berries. Smoking is also a major cause of yellowing.
The Function of the Strips: The whitening gel on the strips works by penetrating the porous outer layer of the tooth (the enamel) and breaking down the discolored molecules that cause the stains. With each application, the strips gently lift away the stains, gradually revealing a whiter, brighter tooth surface underneath.
Understanding the Different Types of Strips
Not all whitening strips are the same. They are generally categorized by their strength, treatment time, and how they adhere to your teeth.
Standard Whitening Strips: This is the most common type. They are designed for everyday whitening and for people with normal tooth sensitivity. The treatment usually involves wearing the strips for about 30 minutes a day for a period of one to two weeks.
"Gentle" or "Sensitive" Strips: For people who have sensitive teeth and gums, these strips are a great option. They use a lower concentration of the whitening agent, which reduces the likelihood of causing sensitivity or discomfort. The treatment time may be similar to the standard strips, but the whitening process is more gradual.
"Express" or "1-Hour" Strips: These are for people who want to see results quickly, perhaps before a special event. These strips contain a higher concentration of the whitening agent and are worn for a longer single session (usually about an hour). They can often produce a noticeable result after just one use.
Advanced Grip or "No-Slip" Strips: One of the biggest innovations in whitening strips has been the improvement in how they stick to your teeth. Older styles could sometimes slip around. Newer, "advanced grip" strips are designed to adhere much more securely to the teeth, allowing you to talk and even drink water while you are wearing them. This makes the whitening process much more convenient.
The Correct Way to Apply Whitening Strips: A Step-by-Step Guide for Novices
Following these simple steps will ensure you get the best contact between the gel and your teeth, leading to more even and effective results.
Step 1: Get Your Teeth Ready
Do Not Brush Immediately Before: This is a very important tip that many beginners miss. You should not brush your teeth right before applying the strips. Brushing can sometimes irritate your gums, and applying a whitening gel right after could increase sensitivity. It's best to wait at least 30 minutes after brushing.
Make Sure Your Teeth Are Dry: For the best adhesion, gently dry the front surface of your teeth with a clean, soft cloth or a tissue right before you apply the strips.
Step 2: Handle the Strips Correctly
Open the Pouch: Each set of strips comes in its own sealed pouch. Tear it open carefully.
Peel the Strip from the Liner: You will see a longer strip for your top teeth and a shorter one for your bottom teeth. Gently peel one of the strips away from the plastic liner.
Step 3: The Application Process
Apply the Gel Side to Your Teeth: The side of the strip that was stuck to the liner is the side with the gel.
Line It Up with Your Gums: Looking in a mirror, carefully apply the strip, lining up the straight edge with your gum line. The strip should be centered on your teeth.
Press and Fold: Gently press the strip down against the front of your teeth. Then, fold the remainder of the strip behind your teeth to hold it securely in place.
Repeat for the Other Row: Do the same thing with the second strip on your other row of teeth.
Step 4: The Waiting Period
Follow the Instructions: This is crucial. Wear the strips for the exact amount of time recommended in the product's instructions. Do not wear them for longer, thinking you will get better results. Overusing the strips can lead to significant tooth and gum sensitivity.
What to Do While You Wait: If you are using no-slip strips, you can go about your day. If you are using standard strips, it's best to just relax and avoid eating or drinking.
Step 5: Removal and Rinsing
Peel the Strips Off: After the designated time is up, gently peel the strips off your teeth and discard them.
Rinse Your Mouth: There may be some leftover gel on your teeth. You can rinse your mouth with water, gently brush your teeth, or wipe the gel away.
Mainstream Brands and Where to Buy
Whitening strips are widely available, and there are several trusted and well-known brands.
Mainstream Brands: Crest 3D Whitestrips is by far the most well-known and dominant brand in this category, offering a wide variety of types, from gentle to express treatments. Other popular brands include Rembrandt and offerings from store brands at major retailers.
Where to Buy: You can find whitening dental strips at virtually any major retailer that has a health and beauty section. This includes:
Drugstores: Places like CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid.
Supermarkets and Big-Box Stores: Retailers like Walmart, Target, and major grocery chains.
Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon have a vast selection, often with a large number of customer reviews that can be very helpful in making a choice.
Important Final Precautions
Sensitivity is Possible: It is common to experience some temporary tooth sensitivity or gum discomfort while using whitening strips. This is usually mild and goes away after you stop using the product. If you experience significant discomfort, stop using the strips and consult with your dentist.
They Only Whiten Natural Teeth: It's important to know that whitening strips will not whiten dental work like crowns, veneers, or fillings.
Talk to Your Dentist: It's always a good idea to talk to your dentist before starting any whitening treatment to make sure your teeth and gums are healthy and that it's a good option for you.
