Teeth whitening strips are known to be easy and convenient. They not only save your time but also leave your teeth shining bright in the comfort of your home. But sometimes, it can be confusing to think about the major differences between boxed whitening strips vs. professional treatment.
Plenty of articles talk about how amazing DIY teeth whitening kits are. However, are whitening strips actually safe for your teeth, or are they considered bad? To learn more about drugstore whitening strips, keep reading this blog.
Are Whitening Strips Bad For Your Teeth?
Like most dental procedures, teeth whitening has its ups and downs. Although when it comes to whitening strips particularly, they can be a bit abrasive, especially if you use them too much. Since they contain strong bleaching agents, the chemicals on the strips can sometimes affect your gums, leaving them extremely sensitive and sore.
It mainly depends on the type of strips you get and how you use them. That is to say, some brands are not approved by the dentist and can do more harm than good. In contrast, others can make your smile brighter without any damage.
Should You Brush Your Teeth Before or After Using Whitening Strips?
One of the most important steps in applying whitening strips is brushing beforehand. However, make sure you do not immediately whiten your teeth after, as that could cause adverse effects. Brushing before the procedure cleans the surface of the teeth and ensures no plaque or bacteria is left lingering in your mouth.
Plus, once your teeth have been whitened, you should avoid brushing your teeth or using any kind of force for a few hours. Since the teeth and gums are vulnerable post-whitening, engaging with them in any kind of way will only cause more damage and lead to heightened tooth sensitivity.
In-Office Whitening vs. Teeth Whitening Strips
While whitening strips work wonders if you’re in a rush, they are not to be substituted for a permanent fix. The purpose of at-home teeth whitening strips is to provide you with speedy results. However, if you use them every other day, there won’t be any visible difference. Instead, with all the bleaching agents working on your teeth, the enamel will wear thin, pushing the dentin out from underneath and making your teeth appear more yellow.
In contrast, a professional teeth whitening procedure will leave your pearly whites sparkling for a long time. Plus, having a dental specialist perform the treatment will automatically ensure that your gums and teeth are well-protected from abrasive chemicals, and there are no consequences to suffer from.
Moreover, as a professional, your dentist is highly trained and has the expertise required to perform this procedure, so you have nothing to worry about. They will guide you throughout the treatment.
Is It Safe To Use Whitening Strips Every Day?
Teeth whitening strips can be quite useful. However, most dentists advise against using whitening strips every day. The purpose of boxed strips is to offer instant results for a short period of time. Thus, they should only be used when needed. Indulging in them every so often can wear down the dental enamel, making your teeth hypersensitive and yellower than before.
Final Takeaway
To sum it up, teeth whitening strips are not exactly bad for your teeth. It is only when you use them on a regular basis that they can negatively affect your dental health. For a safe, professional teeth whitening procedure, feel free to contact Dr. Neela Jeevan Ghatnekar to schedule an appointment. You can reach out to us by calling (714) 921-9252 or visiting us at 8101 E Kaiser Blvd #150, Anaheim, CA 92808.