Crest professional strips
Whitening strips hold peroxide gel against teeth, and the right choice depends on the formula, wear time, enamel, gums, and restorations.
The short answer
Professional-strength whitening strips are thin plastic carriers coated with a peroxide gel. The peroxide enters enamel and dentine and breaks down some colored molecules.
What is the direct answer?
Product versions differ in peroxide concentration, wear time, and instructions, so the package directions matter more than the word professional.
What does this question mean?
Whitening changes natural tooth structure, not the color of fillings, crowns, veneers, or bonding. Exposed root surfaces and inflamed gums may react more strongly because they lack the same enamel covering.
What can you do next?
Check the ingredient and wear instructions, keep gel off the gums, and stop if burning or marked sensitivity develops. A dental examination is useful before whitening when there is decay, gum disease, cracks, or many restorations.
When should you seek dental care?
Seek dental care before continuing if pain is localized, gums peel or blister, or sensitivity lingers after removing the strips. Urgent care is needed for swelling or an allergic reaction.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask which product strength and schedule suit your teeth. Ask whether existing restorations will mismatch and whether decay or gum recession should be treated first.
Frequently asked questions
Can strips whiten crowns?
No. They can change nearby natural teeth while the crown keeps its existing shade.
Why do strips cause sensitivity?
Peroxide can temporarily move through enamel and dentine toward the pulp, producing a sensitivity response.