When to use teeth whitening strips

When to Use Teeth Whitening Strips

It is no secret that everybody wants a brilliant white smile. The quest for whiter teeth has led to various teeth whitening methods, which include whitening toothpaste, whitening gels, and teeth whitening strips. In this article, we will focus on teeth bleaching strips, their effectiveness, and when to use them.

What are Teeth Whitening Strips?

Teeth whitening strips are thin and flexible pieces of plastic coated with a peroxide-based bleaching gel. The strips are designed to stick to the teeth surface and gradually whiten your teeth over time.

Are Teeth Whitening Strips Effective?

Teeth whitening strips have proven to be effective in improving teeth appearance. Most teeth bleaching strips contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which helps to remove deep-set stains on teeth caused by smoking, wine, coffee, and tea.

However, teeth whitening strips require consistent usage over a certain period to achieve the desired results. Whitening strips are available in various strengths, with some being more potent than others. Therefore, it’s essential to choose the right level of bleaching strength based on your teeth sensitivity.

When to use teeth whitening strips

1. Whitening Teeth for an Upcoming Special Event

Are you attending a wedding, graduation, or other significant events and in need of a brighter, whiter smile? If yes, teeth whitening strips are an excellent solution. Regular usage of teeth whitening strips can lead to a noticeable difference within the first few uses.

However, it is recommended that you begin using teeth whitening strips two weeks to one month before the event. This helps to achieve the desired results without over-bleaching your teeth, which can lead to teeth sensitivity or gum irritation.

2. After Stopping Usage of Tobacco Products

Smoking and other tobacco products are one of the leading causes of yellow teeth. However, stopping the use of tobacco products can quickly improve teeth shade. Teeth whitening strips can be an excellent solution to speed up this process.

It is essential to wait a week after quitting smoking before using teeth whitening strips, as the residual tar and chemicals in your mouth can block the effect of the whitening strips and lead to discoloration.

3. After a Professional Teeth Cleaning

Regular dental checkups and cleaning appointments are essential for maintaining optimal oral health. After a professional cleaning, teeth are usually cleaner and smoother hence more responsive to teeth whitening strips.

It is recommended to wait for a week after a professional cleaning before using teeth whitening strips. This helps to ensure that the gums have healed, and there are no open wounds or critical sensitivity that may result in irritation.

4. For a Home Whitening Solution

Teeth whitening strips are a popular at-home teeth whitening solution that is easy to use and affordable. If you are looking for an inexpensive but effective way of whitening your teeth, this is an excellent option.

The most convenient time to use teeth whitening strips is before going to bed. Many strips are designed to be applied for at least 30 minutes; therefore, it’s recommended to use them after brushing your teeth and before you sleep. This allows the strip to remain on your teeth for an extended period, promoting more effective results.

5. Before Starting Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic treatment requires that you have healthy teeth and excellent oral hygiene. Hence, it is recommended to undergo teeth whitening treatment before commencing orthodontic treatment.

This helps to ensure that any existing stains or discolorations on your teeth are removed before the treatment, which helps to prevent stains and discolorations during the treatment.

Conclusion

Teeth whitening strips are an easy, affordable, and effective way of improving teeth appearance. However, it’s essential to know when to use them to achieve the desired results. Teeth whitening strips are suitable for whitening teeth for special occasions, at-home solution, and after quitting smoking or a professional dental cleaning. It’s crucial to pick the appropriate teeth whitening strip based on your teeth sensitivity and begin with the lowest strength. If you experience prolonged gum irritation or sensitivity, stop usage and seek the advice of your dentist.