How Long Does It Take for Whitening Strips to Work?

We all have seen numerous advertisements that tout that effectiveness and convenience of whitening strips. Many of us might have even considered giving them a try. However, we all ask the same thing: Does it really work? This is, after all, a fair question, considering the dangers of putting unknown products in our bodies. Read on as we learn more about whitening strips.

There are several reasons why teeth can become discolored. Age, medications, trauma, tobacco, and food and drinks consumed – all of these contribute to tooth discoloration. There are some cases where discoloration can be treated with whitening agents that give a brighter and more vibrant smile. This is where whitening strips come to the picture.

What Use Teeth Whitening Strips?

Easy and convenient to use, tooth whitening strips are applied over the top of the teeth. they require no preparation and does not get messy like other teeth whitening methods. Whitening strips are mostly preferred over other whitening methods because of how easy they are to use. Aside from allowing you to take them practically anywhere, you also only need to wear them for a few minutes, not hours like standard whitening kits.

How Do Teeth Whitening Strips Work?

Whitening strips work the same way as bleach whitens your hair or your clothes. It contains peroxide which penetrates the surfaces and bleaches the color off your teeth to allow the natural, whiter color to show through.

Most whitening strips are coated with a gel that contains peroxide. You simply apply the strip onto the teeth so that the peroxide gel comes into contact with the enamel. Afterwards, you let it stay and remove according to the package instructions. Such ease of use makes them very popular today.

How Long Before Teeth Whitening Strips Work?

Considering that every person is unique, each one is bound to experience different results with teeth whitening strips. Upon application, the whitening strips will immediately go to work and bleach the color of your enamel. On average, you should start to see a noticeable difference in about five to seven days.

How Long Does the Whitening Effects Last?

Manufacturers stress that your habits determine the length of the treatment. Drinking wine, tea and coffee, and smoking tobacco, can cause tooth discoloration. Consumers report that whitening strips last about 12 months on average, depending on hygiene, oral habits and diet.

Help your teeth stay whiter for longer by religiously following a good oral health regimen that includes brushing, rinsing and flossing. Try to limit your intake of food and drinks that stain the teeth. It also helps to get regular examinations and professional cleaning from your dentist twice a year.

Before you start any teeth whitening treatment, it is important that you first consult your dentist to get your gums and teeth evaluated. Remember that bleaching agents do not work on infected or damaged teeth; thus, these oral issues should be addressed before you start whitening.