Professional effects whitestrips
Whitening strips use peroxide against surface and internal stains, but fit, timing, and tooth condition affect the result.
The short answer
Whitening strips use a peroxide layer against the front surfaces of the teeth to break down some stains, while their result depends on the product, contact time, tooth condition, and correct use.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
The strip is a flexible carrier coated with a peroxide whitening material that contacts enamel. It cannot recolour fillings or crowns, and it may not correct stains caused by trauma, decay, fluorosis, or changes inside the tooth.
What can you do next?
Read the product directions, brush gently, dry the front teeth if directed, and place the strip without covering the gums. Remove it at the stated time, discard it, and stop if marked irritation or persistent sensitivity develops; do not sleep in a strip or combine whitening products without advice.
When should you seek dental care?
Have a dental examination before using strips when teeth are painful, chipped, decayed, very sensitive, or surrounded by inflamed gums. Urgent assessment is needed for swelling, spontaneous pain, or a tooth that has suddenly darkened.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask whether the strips match your dental condition, which teeth will not whiten, how to respond to sensitivity, and whether a dentist-made tray would give better contact or control.
Frequently asked questions
Can strips whiten one dark tooth?
Usually not reliably, because a dark tooth may have an internal pulp or dentine change that needs diagnosis.
Why do my gums sting?
Gel may have reached the gum margin or the tissue may be irritated by pressure, fit, or repeated exposure.