Teeth whitening strips bad for you
Whitening strips can irritate gums and cause tooth sensitivity, with risk depending on the peroxide, fit, contact time, and the condition of the teeth.
The short answer
Whitening strips are flexible plastic carriers coated with a peroxide-based gel that oxidises some colour molecules in enamel and dentine.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
The gel can contact gingiva or enter exposed dentine through cracks, erosion, recession, or worn fillings, producing burning or sensitivity. Strips cannot change the colour of fillings, crowns, veneers, or other restorations, so uneven shade can result.
What can you do next?
Use a product only as directed on its label, keep gel off the gums, and stop if you develop significant pain, ulceration, or persistent irritation. Treat cavities, leaking restorations, and gum inflammation before whitening.
When should you seek dental care?
See a dentist before whitening if you have sensitivity, recession, decay, enamel erosion, untreated gum disease, or extensive restorations. Seek care for severe pain, swelling, or tissue injury that persists after stopping.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask whether the darkening is surface stain or a tooth-colour change, whether your enamel and gums are suitable, and how existing restorations will look after whitening.
Frequently asked questions
Can this be managed at home?
Use a product only as directed on its label, keep gel off the gums, and stop if you develop significant pain, ulceration, or persistent irritation. Treat cavities, leaking restorations, and gum inflammation before whitening.
What would a dentist check?
Ask whether the darkening is surface stain or a tooth-colour change, whether your enamel and gums are suitable, and how existing restorations will look after whitening.