Do You Brush After Whitening Strips? Those who want a whiter, brighter smile are increasingly using teeth whitening strips. The prospect of a brilliant smile frequently raises concerns regarding what to do after using whitening strips, particularly whether or not to clean one’s teeth afterwards.
An over-the-counter method for lightening the colour of your teeth is to use whitening strips. The components in the strips work to get rid of the stains on your teeth.
You might be wondering how to include the strips in your regimen if you’ve never used them before. When you use whitening strips, do you wash your teeth afterwards?
After applying the strips, you can clean your teeth, but there are a few things to remember. It’s crucial to exercise caution while using whitening strips since they might be damaging to your teeth and gums.
The ideal methods for cleaning your teeth and applying whitening strips will be discussed in this post. We’ll also go over the possible negative effects of the strips and how they function.
Whitening Strips: What Are They?
- Adhesive plastic pieces with a gel-based whitening process are called whitening strips. They are made to fit securely over your teeth and function by progressively removing any stains from the enamel’s surface. The majority of whitening strips are used once or twice a day for 30 minutes at a time, and they are available in pairs for both the upper and lower sets of teeth.
- Contrary to other tooth-whitening procedures like in-office bleaching sessions or professional dental cleanings, you may buy whitening strips over-the-counter from pharmacies or internet shops without a doctor’s prescription.
- Since hydrogen peroxide is the main element in most whitening strip formulations, some people may feel sensitivity after using them. If you have sensitive teeth, it’s crucial to carefully read the label since there are milder options that employ carbamide peroxide instead.
- It’s important to keep in mind that although these solutions can be useful in eliminating surface stains from things like coffee, tea, or smoking, they might not be able to eliminate more deeply ingrained discolorations brought on by prescription side effects or heredity. In some situations, you might need to ask your dentist about more extensive treatment alternatives, including veneers or crowns.
If you use whitening strips, should you clean your teeth afterwards?
After using teeth-whitening strips, you can safely brush and floss your teeth. It won’t lessen the treatment’s whitening benefits. The manufacturers advise proceeding cautiously. You may prevent gum soreness and inflammation by doing this.
Consider using a brush with soft bristles as well. An excessively abrasive hard-bristled brush might irritate your gums.
Is it necessary to wash your teeth before using whitening stips?
Moreover, you can floss and clean your teeth before using whitening strips. Plaque and food particles that could become lodged under the strips will be eliminated in this way.
To further enhance your teeth whitening efforts, the strips should completely stick to your clean teeth.
Give yourself at least thirty minutes before using the strips if you wish to wash your teeth beforehand. Applying whitening strips immediately after brushing may irritate your gums.
How do teeth-whitening strips function?
Peroxide is typically used by whitening strips to whiten teeth. One kind of bleach is peroxide. Although some manufacturers may employ carbamide peroxide, the majority of strips include hydrogen peroxide.
There is a tiny coating of peroxide gel on the plastic strips. The bleach on the strips dissolves the spots on your teeth when you place them on. This makes stains less concentrated, giving the appearance of whiter teeth.
You may need to wear the strips for thirty minutes once or twice a day, depending on the product. The procedure could also need to be repeated every 14 days.
When Is It Time to Use Whitening Strips?
“How often should I use them?” is one of the most frequent queries individuals have while utilising whitening strips. A few variables determine the response.
- First and foremost, it’s crucial to follow the directions included with your whitening strips. Recommendations for usage length and frequency may vary throughout brands.
- The majority of whitening strip kits often advise applying them once daily for 14 days or until the desired degree of whiteness is reached. Using them more than thrice a day is not advised as this might lead to tooth sensitivity and enamel damage.
- It’s also important to take into account how frequently you eat and drink things like coffee and red wine that might discolour your teeth. You might need to use the strips more regularly to preserve the results if you smoke or consume coffee on a daily basis.
But it’s essential to cease using the strips right away and speak with your dentist about your options if you feel any pain while using them, such as increased tooth sensitivity or gum inflammation.
How to prevent stains on teeth
- Eat less of the foods that stain teeth, such as fruit juice, coffee, red wine, and tea.
- Eat less acidic food and drink.
- Drinking liquids that discolour teeth requires using a straw.
- Don’t smoke tobacco products, including cigarettes.
- Twice a day, brush and floss as usual.
- As soon as you finish eating something that will discolour your teeth, brush them.
- Chew on sugar-free gum to counteract acidity.
- Twice a year, schedule a thorough cleaning with your dentist.
The negative consequences of using whitening strips
Even though whitening strips are practical, your teeth and gums may not tolerate the harsh substances.
A number of variables affect the adverse effects and how severe they are:
- concentration of bleaching peroxide
- additional components included with the package
- How long are the whitening strips used for?
- Your dental sensitivity history
It’s crucial to adhere to the directions on the container and refrain from using the strips for longer than is advised.
By doing this, you can prevent negative impacts like:
sensitivity of teeth
Whitening strips include bleaching ingredients that may increase tooth sensitivity. When peroxide penetrates your enamel and reaches the dentin, this happens.
The delicate tissue layer that lies underneath the enamel is called the dentin. It is made up of tubules that connect to the tooth’s nerves. Tooth sensitivity may result from peroxide irritation to the nerves if it penetrates the dentin.
Sensitive teeth refer to pain and discomfort brought on by a variety of factors, such as:
- acidic meals and beverages
- warm or chilly drinks
- chilly atmosphere
- scrubbing
- flossing
Whitening strip-induced tooth irritation may last for a few days. But it’s often only momentary. Give the strips a rest if you experience this negative effect before using them once again.
gum irritation
Whitening strip peroxide may cause irritation to your gums. This often occurs when the strips are worn improperly or for an extended period of time.
Similar to tooth sensitivity, gum inflammation is likewise transient, lasting only a few days.
tooth decay
Whitening strips may occasionally harm teeth. Your teeth’s layers might be destroyed by the peroxide, leading to erosion and demineralization.
If you use whitening strips excessively, this is more likely to occur. Again, using whitening strips for extended periods of time should be avoided.
Consult a dentist
Speak with a dentist if you’re considering utilising over-the-counter teeth-whitening items like strips.
This is particularly crucial if you have:
- cavities
- gum disease
- sensitivity of teeth
- thrush
- canker sores
- chilly sores
Whitening product chemicals might hurt you if you have any of these illnesses.
If you’re safe to use whitening strips, your dentist can advise you. If so, they can advise you on the finest choices and walk you through their usage. They could also recommend toothbrushes and toothpastes that work well with whitening strips.
Summary
Brushing your teeth after using whitening strips is safe. Just be careful not to hurt your gums while doing it.
Cleaning your teeth before using whitening strips is an additional choice. Plaque can adhere under the strips; therefore, this is the best way to get rid of it. To prevent gum irritation, give the application of the strips at least half an hour’s grace.
The manufacturer’s instructions should always be followed while using whitening products. Too much time spent wearing them might harm your teeth and create gum discomfort and sensitivity. The ideal whitening strips for your circumstances might be suggested by your dentist.
Commonly Asked Questions: Do You Brush After Whitening Strips?
- Can I use whitening strips and then brush right away?
It is suggested to wait a minimum of thirty minutes in order to optimise the efficacy of whitening chemicals.
- How long do whitening strips’ effects last?
Although results might vary, they can endure for several months if dental maintenance is taken properly.
- Are home-made whitening techniques secure?
Even if certain do-it-yourself techniques could provide benefits, they might not be as safe or efficient as items made by professionals.
- After using whitening strips, how can I reduce the discomfort in my teeth?
If discomfort continues, use toothpaste made specifically for sensitive teeth and see a dentist.
- If I had dental work done, could I still get my teeth whitened?
Dental restorations might not be affected by teeth whitening, but for specific guidance, it is best to see a dentist.