Whitewash professional whitening strips
Whitening strips use a peroxide gel against enamel to lighten some stains, but fit, exposure time, and tooth health affect the result.
The short answer
Whitening strips are thin plastic carriers coated with a peroxide gel that contacts enamel to lighten some tooth stains; they must be used according to their instructions.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
The gel contains a peroxide compound that diffuses through enamel and oxidises parts of stain molecules. Uneven contact, crowding, tartar, decay, or a restoration can produce patchy colour rather than an even change.
What can you do next?
Check the teeth and gums for cavities, cracks, ulcers, and recession before applying a strip. Keep gel off the gums, do not exceed the stated wear time, and stop if marked burning or persistent sensitivity develops.
When should you seek dental care?
Seek dental care before whitening if you have untreated decay, gum disease, exposed roots, or pain. An appointment is also appropriate when colour is uneven, a single tooth is dark, or sensitivity remains after stopping the strips.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask whether the peroxide concentration and tray or strip shape fit your teeth, and whether existing restorations will mismatch. Ask about desensitising treatment and a supervised alternative if your gums recede or your teeth are crowded.
Frequently asked questions
Can strips whiten a crowned tooth?
No. A crown keeps its existing shade, so whitening nearby natural teeth may reveal a mismatch.
Can I cut strips to fit?
Changing the carrier can alter gel contact and gum coverage, so follow the product directions or ask a dentist about fit.