3D professional crest whitening strips
Whitening strips use a peroxide gel on the tooth surface; results and irritation depend on the product and your dental health.
The short answer
Crest 3D whitening strips are flexible plastic strips coated with a peroxide whitening gel that contacts the enamel for a specified wear time. The gel can lighten some surface and internal tooth stains, but it cannot whiten fillings, crowns, veneers, or dentures.
How does peroxide break down tooth discolouration?
The active peroxide breaks down stain molecules within the tooth’s enamel and dentin. Sensitivity or gum irritation can occur when peroxide reaches exposed dentin, a crack, an ill-fitting strip edge, or inflamed gingiva.
How should you fit whitening strips and protect your gums?
Read the package directions, fit the strip to the tooth surfaces, and keep gel off the gum margin. Do not extend wear time or combine products without professional guidance, and stop if pain or marked gum whitening develops.
When should a dentist check your mouth before whitening?
Have a dental examination before whitening if you have untreated decay, cracked teeth, gum recession, ulcers, or strong sensitivity. Seek care for persistent pain, a lesion that does not heal, or uneven color that may reflect a restoration rather than stain.
Can whitening change this discolouration or restoration?
Ask whether the discoloration is surface stain, internal discoloration, decay, or a restoration, and whether whitening can change it. Ask how to protect exposed roots and what treatment will match any visible crowns or fillings.
Frequently asked questions
Can strips whiten yellow fillings?
No. They act on natural tooth structure, so a visible filling may remain a different shade.
Should sensitive teeth use whitening strips?
Sensitivity should be assessed first because exposed dentin, decay, cracks, or gum recession can worsen with peroxide contact.
Who wrote this page
This library is published by Dental Nation, a licensed dental group practising in the United Arab Emirates. Pages are written and overseen by the same clinical team that treats patients in our clinics, and are held to a fixed editorial standard for safety and accuracy.
This page is patient education, not medical advice, and cannot replace an examination. Anything urgent — facial swelling, trauma, uncontrolled bleeding or severe pain — needs a dentist or emergency care now.