With many people seeking that picture-perfect smile, teeth whitening has become increasingly popular in recent years. Among the various options available, teeth whitening strips have gained significant traction due to their convenience and affordability. But the question on many minds is: Are teeth whitening strips safe? Let’s dig deep into this topic and explore the pros and cons of teeth whitening strips.
What Are Teeth Whitening Strips?
Teeth whitening strips are thin, flexible plastic pieces coated with a gel containing either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These chemicals are bleaching agents that penetrate the tooth enamel to remove stains and lighten the overall colour of your teeth. The application process is simple and convenient:
- Press the strips against your teeth.
- Hold them in place for a specified time (usually 30 minutes to an hour).
- Remove and discard the strips.
Many products recommend daily use for two to three weeks, with results potentially lasting up to four months. But, of course, results may vary, depending on multiple factors, including your teeth shade, the bleaching agent used & frequency of use.
The Appeal of Whitening Strips
It’s no wonder these strips have become so popular. They offer several advantages:
- Cost-effective: Compared to professional oral whitening treatments, strips are significantly less expensive. You no longer have to worry whether your private health insurance covers the cost of your professional teeth whitening sessions.
- Convenience and Ease of Use: You can apply them at home, anytime that suits you. Plus, no special preparation or equipment is needed.
- Portability and Availability: Whitening strips are small, making them easy to carry and use on the go. Plus, you can buy teeth whitening strips at most supermarkets, drug stores or grocery stores.
Safety Concerns and Potential Risks
While whitening strips offer convenience, they’re not without risks. Here are some potential issues to consider before buying and placing these strips on your teeth:
- Uneven Whitening
One of the biggest challenges with strips is achieving even coverage. Teeth are not flat surfaces, and strips may not adhere perfectly to every contour. This can result in uneven whitening, potentially leaving you with a patchy smile.
- Gum Irritation
The bleaching agents in whitening strips can be harsh on your gums. It can be challenging to apply the strips without them coming into contact with your gum tissue, which may lead to irritation or inflammation.
- Tooth Sensitivity
You might feel tempted to leave the strips on your teeth for a little longer, but overuse of whitening strips can lead to increased tooth sensitivity. Also, the chemicals in these products can potentially erode tooth enamel if used excessively, making your teeth more vulnerable to decay.
Are Whitening Strips Safe for Everyone’s Teeth?
While generally considered safe for adults when used as directed, whitening strips, or any whitening method for that matter, are not recommended for children. Their teeth are still developing, and their enamel is more porous, making them more susceptible to sensitivity and damage from whitening agents. Check out our blog, ‘Can Children Have Their Teeth Whitened?’ to learn more about this matter.
If you’re an adult who wants to use whitening strips, here are some tips to lower risks:
- Follow instructions carefully: Is it OK to use teeth whitening strips? Yes, but make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to a tee. Don’t leave strips on longer than recommended nor use them more frequently than directed.
- Consult your dentist first: Talk to your dentist before trying any at-home teeth whitening method. They can assess if your teeth and gums are healthy enough for whitening.
- Be patient: Results take time. Don’t be tempted to overuse strips for faster results. If you want instant results, consider other options, like in-chair teeth whitening treatment, which can give noticeable results in just one session.
- Stop if you experience pain: If you feel persistent discomfort, discontinue use and go to your dentist to have your teeth checked and ask whether it’s safe to use strips again or which whitening’s are safe and suitable for your teeth.
The Professional Alternative
While whitening strips can be effective for surface stains, they come with risks, and their results can be inconsistent. If you want the safest and most effective teeth whitening in Australia, professional in-chair whitening remains the gold standard.
At SmileBar, we offer professional teeth whitening treatments that provide superior results with minimal risk. Our trained professionals can assess your individual needs, ensure even application, and monitor the process to prevent overexposure or damage to your teeth and gums. You’ll have a brighter smile in just 60 minutes!
Final Thoughts
Teeth whitening strips can be a convenient and cost-effective option for brightening your smile, but they come with potential risks. While they’re generally safe when used as directed, they may not be suitable for everyone, and results can vary.
For the safest, most effective teeth whitening experience, consider booking an appointment with SmileBar. Our professional in-chair treatments offer controlled application, even results, and expert oversight to ensure your smile not only looks brighter but stays healthy, too. We offer professional teeth whitening in Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, and many other locations across Australia. Visit us soon!
