Do over-the-counter whitening strips damage your teeth?
Whitening strips are very famous and most used among white teeth lovers. They offer a convenient solution to brighten up the teeth without a visit to the dentist. These are widely available across multiple medical stores and are easy to use. But with many fix-in solutions, it has some safety questions with long-term effects. Before applying any whitening process it is always better to consult with the experts of teeth whitening in Fort Myers. Read along this blog to know if the OTC is a damaging process to your teeth.
How does the process work?
The strips are thin, flexible coated with a gel containing agents like hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide. These two are active whitening agents. It works by affecting the enamel and breaking down the stains on the teeth, directly on the surface level and the deeper ones. It is a bleaching process that gives a white appearance to the whiter teeth.
You apply the strips for 20-30 minutes a day for two weeks. The duration depends on the type of product you are using.
Are these safe?
OTC whitening strips are safe to use when directed by dental experts. They are made up of lower concentrations of bleaching agents and are safer when compared to other professional treatments. This reduces the risk of severe side effects. However, the safety depends on how frequently they are used.
Some of the potential risks that might come with the usage are:
Sensitivity
One of the common problems that comes with whitening your teeth is sensitivity. The chemical hydrogen peroxide impacts the nerve inside the teeth, gives an irritating impact, and makes it sensitive to hot, cold, and sweet food.
This lasts for a few hours or days after the treatment. People who naturally have sensitive teeth, feel the discomfort more. However, there is a way to minimize the sensitive issue:
Way 1- Use sensitive toothpaste while using the strips.
Way 2- Reduce the application of peroxide products.
Way 3- Completely avoid teeth whitening products if you already have sensitive teeth.
Enamel damage
Enamel is the outer layer of your teeth. It is the hardest substance in the body and unbreakable. Whitening strips too often when incorrectly used weaken the enamel and make it prone to erosion or decay. Hydrogen peroxide is an effective agent but cannot be used abrasively. Moreover, enamel doesn’t regenerate so if it is damaged, the impact will be there always.
How can you protect your enamel?
Way 1- Follow whitening strips sparingly and follow manufacturer instructions.
Way 2- limit the number of users to once or twice a year.
Way 3- Brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush to strengthen your enamel.
Uneven Whitening
Whitening strips only whiten the surface touched. If they don’t make contact with the teeth, you could end up having uneven whitening. Some areas will be lighter than others. This is the common scenario for brushing the edges of the teeth or between them. Uneven whitening can give a very bad look to the face if you’re trying to have a flawless and uniform smile.
You can ensure even whitening by following these two:
Way 1: Apply the strips carefully onto all the surfaces of the teeth.
Way 2: You can have a custom-fitted whitening tray from your dentist for better help.
Conclusion
Whitening is a convenient way to achieve a brighter smile but it is sensitive. Sensitivity, enamel damage, gum irritation, and uneven whitening are the potential issues you might face if not done properly. The key is to have the right instructions and under-usage of the product. If you face any problem post-application, have a quick treatment with your dental professional and stop the usage immediately.
