Do Teeth Whitening Strips Really Work?

Are you looking to get a brighter smile? It can definitely make a big difference in how you feel about yourself and how others see you. Sure, professional teeth whitening at the dentist is a great option but it’s not always the most convenient or affordable choice.

That’s where teeth whitening strips come in! Teeth whitening strips are coated with a whitening gel that helps lift stains and brighten your teeth. They’re easy to apply—just stick them on your teeth, wait a bit and peel them off. It is THAT straightforward!

But if it’s that simple, why doesn’t everyone use them? Well, teeth whitening strips do have their limitations. In this article, we’ll explore more about how they work and what you should consider before using them.

What are teeth whitening strips?

Achieving whiter teeth is often a goal for many seeking a bright, confident smile. Maintaining good oral hygiene is the foundation for not only a healthy mouth but also for keeping your teeth looking their best.

Teeth whitening strips are a convenient alternative to professional teeth whitening procedures for brightening your smile and removing stains from your teeth. Made from thin, flexible plastic or gel-coated film, these strips fit comfortably over your teeth. They are coated with a whitening gel or a bleaching gel that contains active ingredients like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These ingredients known as bleaching agents, work by penetrating the surface of your teeth and breaking down surface stains and discoloration that have built up over time.

The concentration of active whitening agents in these strips is around 10-15%. This level is effective for removing stains while still being safe for at-home use. Higher concentrations (30-35%) are used for professional teeth whitening treatments but it can be too harsh for home use (when not used under dentist's supervision) and may potentially cause tooth sensitivity or gum irritation.

At-home whitening kits are also more cost-effective compared to professional whitening treatments, making them a practical alternative. Just remember to follow the instructions on the packaging to achieve the best results and keep your teeth and gums healthy.

What are the advantages of teeth whitening strips?

Convenience

Teeth whitening strips are user-friendly. They come with pre-measured doses so there’s no need for mixing or measuring. You simply apply the strips to your teeth for a pre-determined amount of time and follow the instructions. This makes them a great option for those with busy lifestyles who prefer to whiten their teeth at home.

Affordability

Teeth whitening strips are also less expensive as compared to professional whitening treatments. They offer a cost-effective way to achieve that bright smile without the added costs associated with in-office procedures.

Effectiveness

Studies have shown that strips for teeth whitening work effectively in brightening teeth. Although these strips might not provide the same dramatic results as professional treatments, they are still effective for at-home use.

Related Articles

• A Dentist’s Guide to Teeth Whitening in Singapore (2024)
• Does Whitening Teeth Weaken Enamel? — Let's debunk this myth!

Some things to consider...

When considering teeth whitening strips, it may be helpful to keep the following factors in mind.

• Sensitivity: There are whitening products that can help whiten your teeth but it's important to use them carefully to avoid teeth sensitivity. This is a common side effect, especially with higher concentrations of hydrogen peroxide. If you experience discomfort, consider using strips designed for sensitive teeth or taking breaks between treatments. 

• Realistic Expectations: For deep or severe stains, in-office dentist teeth whitening treatments may be necessary. Therefore, professional teeth cleaning and professional whitening treatments might be necessary for more stubborn discolouration.

• Maintenance: Practice good oral hygiene and avoid foods and drinks that can cause staining, such as coffee, tea and red wine to maintain your whitened smile. Regular brushing, flossing, and visits to the dentist complement these products, ensuring your teeth remain both healthy and white.

• Follow the Manufacturer's Instructions: Always follow the guidelines provided with your teeth whitening products. For example, don’t leave the strips on longer than recommended as this won’t make your teeth whiter and can potentially harm them. Proper use ensures the best results and helps you use the product safely.

So, are you ready to give teeth whitening strips a try?

Since you’re nearing the end of this blog, you’re probably thinking about giving teeth whitening strips a try! Here are some tips to help you pick a good one.

Ingredients

Look for products that use proven ingredients like carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide. These are commonly used in effective whitening treatments and are known for their ability to break down stains and lighten teeth.

Dentist Approval

Choose strips that have been approved by dental organisations, such as those bearing the ADA (American Dental Association) Seal of Acceptance. This seal indicates that the strips are safe to use and meets effective standards.

Customer Reviews

Check out online reviews to see what other users have experienced with the product. Also, don’t hesitate to ask your dentist for advice on which whitening strips might be best for you. They are the best person to talk to about your dental needs.

Conclusion

Studies reveal that most teeth aren’t naturally white or perfectly uniform in colour. In fact, many teeth have different tones and often lean towards a yellowish hue. So, it's important to have realistic expectations.

While whitening toothpastes can help maintain your teeth's brightness, teeth whitening kits such as whitening strips can offer a more noticeable and faster whitening effect. It's always good to embrace your natural tooth color and focus on achieving a healthier-looking smile!

Do you have more questions? Just drop us a message here and we will be right with you!

References

1. Gerlach RW, Zhou X. Vital Bleaching with Whitening Strips: Summary of Clinical Research
   on Effectiveness and Tolerability. J Contemp Dent Pract 2001;(2)3: 001-016.
2. Naidu, A., Bennani, V., Brunton, J. M., & Brunton, P. (2020). Over-the-counter tooth whitening agents: a review of literature. Brazilian dental journal, 31, 221-235.
3. Serraglio, C. R., Zanella, L., Dalla-Vecchia, K. B., & Rodrigues-Junior, S. A. (2016). Efficacy and safety of over-the-counter whitening strips as compared to home-whitening with 10% carbamide peroxide gel—systematic review of RCTs and metanalysis. Clinical oral investigations, 20, 1-14.