Are Crest White Strips worth it?

Yes, Crest White Strips are generally considered worth it for many people, offering noticeable, affordable whitening for surface stains, convenience, and ease of use compared to professional options, but they have limitations like temporary sensitivity, don't work on deep intrinsic stains or dental work, and require touch-ups for long-lasting results.

Do crest white strips actually work?

Yes, Crest Whitestrips actually work for whitening natural teeth by using peroxide gels to remove stains, offering noticeable results for mild to moderate discoloration, especially when used consistently as directed, but they won't match dramatic professional whitening and require touch-ups for lasting effects. The American Dental Association (ADA) has even granted its Seal of Acceptance to some Crest 3D Whitestrips, confirming their safety and efficacy.
 

Do dentists recommend white strips?

Yes, dentists often recommend whitening strips as a safe and effective way to whiten teeth, especially ADA-approved brands, but they stress consulting a dentist first to ensure they're right for you, checking for dental issues like gum disease, and following instructions strictly to avoid sensitivity or enamel damage. They work best on surface stains but aren't effective on restorations like crowns, and professionals can guide you to gentler, custom options if you have sensitivity.
 

What are the downsides of whitening strips?

Teeth whitening strips can cause temporary tooth/gum sensitivity, uneven whitening (especially with crooked teeth), and potential enamel damage with overuse, as the peroxide gel can irritate nerves and gums. They may not work on all stains (like tetracycline) and often give inconsistent results, leaving white spots or not reaching all teeth, with effects that aren't permanent.
 

How long do crest white strips take to work?

Crest Whitestrips start showing noticeable whitening in as little as 3 days, with significant differences often seen within a week, but achieving full, final results typically takes the entire treatment course, usually 10 to 20 days of consistent daily use, depending on the specific product. Different formulas, like 1-Hour Express, offer faster results, while Gentle Routine takes longer for sensitivity.
 

The Right and Wrong Way to use Teeth Whitening Strips - A Dentist Explains

Am I supposed to brush my teeth after using crest whitestrips?

Yes, you should brush your teeth after using Crest whitening strips, but it's best to wait about 30 minutes after removing the strips to let your enamel settle and prevent sensitivity, then brush gently with a soft-bristled brush to remove leftover gel. Brushing immediately can increase sensitivity and potentially reduce the strips' effectiveness, so rinsing with water first and waiting is key.
 

What is the 2 2 2 rule for teeth?

The 2-2-2 rule stipulates that you should brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes at a time and schedule general cleaning appointments with your dentist twice a year. By following this rule, you can see a drastic change in the health of your teeth over time.

Why are crest whitening strips banned?

When it comes to using these brightening formulae, the European Commission has set maximum limits to protect human health: 6% for dentists and only 0.1% for DIY use. Crest's white teeth strips contain a hydrogen peroxide level of around 14%, which significantly exceeds the limit and enters the dangerous level zone.

What is the healthiest way to whiten your teeth?

The healthiest way to whiten teeth involves a dentist-supervised approach for best results, starting with a professional cleaning to remove surface stains, followed by options like custom-fitted trays with professional-strength gels or safe over-the-counter strips, always prioritizing products with the ADA Seal of Acceptance and practicing excellent daily hygiene (brushing/flossing) to prevent new stains, as harsh DIY methods like undiluted baking soda or charcoal can damage enamel.
 

Do crest strips damage enamel?

No, Crest Whitestrips generally do not permanently damage enamel when used as directed, as they use safe, low concentrations of peroxide to break down stains, but overuse or use on unhealthy teeth can cause temporary sensitivity or irritation, as the peroxide can reach the underlying dentin layer, and it's best to consult a dentist if you have existing dental issues like cavities or gum disease.
 

Can yellow teeth turn white again?

Yes, yellow teeth can often become white again through various methods, from at-home treatments like whitening toothpaste and good hygiene to professional dental procedures like in-office bleaching or veneers, depending on the cause and severity of the staining (extrinsic surface stains vs. deeper intrinsic stains). 

What should I avoid when using whitening strips?

Avoid Acidic and Staining Foods: Acidic and staining foods such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, and berries can compromise the results of teeth whitening and increase the risk of enamel erosion and staining. Limit consumption or rinse your mouth immediately after consuming such foods.

How to get 100% white teeth?

Some teeth whitening methods are most beneficial for preventing teeth yellowing or staining.

1. Use whitening toothpaste. ...
2. Switch to an electric toothbrush. ...
3. Get a professional tooth whitening treatment. ...
4. Get a custom whitening gel tray. ...
5. Apply whitening strips. ...
6. Use baking soda toothpaste. ...
7. Try oil pulling. ...
8. Practice good oral hygiene.

Will my teeth go back to yellow after whitening strips?

Yes, your teeth will likely go back to yellow after whitening strips because whitening isn't permanent; stains from food, drinks (coffee, wine), and habits like smoking can re-stain teeth, and natural aging thins enamel, revealing the yellow dentin underneath. Whitening strips only remove surface stains, so consistent oral hygiene, avoiding staining culprits, and periodic touch-ups are key to maintaining results. 

How do dentists feel about whitening strips?

The American Dental Association (ADA) recognizes their safety in over-the-counter products, as long as they are used as directed. However, it's important to note that whitening strips can cause temporary tooth sensitivity or gum irritation in some individuals.

What is the best OTC teeth whitening?

The best over-the-counter teeth whitening often comes down to Crest 3D Whitestrips for ease and results or Opalescence Go for more powerful, dentist-recommended gel trays, with Lumineux being a good peroxide-free option for sensitive teeth, all using effective ingredients like hydrogen peroxide to lift stains, though sensitive users might prefer low-concentration formulas or pens for a "low and slow" approach.
 

How are people getting their teeth so white?

People get their teeth super white through a combination of professional treatments like in-office bleaching (Zoom!), custom take-home trays, and cosmetic procedures such as porcelain veneers, often combined with excellent daily hygiene, whitening toothpaste, and lifestyle changes like using straws for dark drinks to prevent stains. For dramatic results, veneers and professional whitening are key, while at-home products offer milder whitening. 

Why do teeth turn yellow?

Teeth turn yellow primarily because the hard, white outer enamel thins with age, revealing the naturally yellow dentin underneath, while also absorbing stains from dark-colored foods (coffee, tea, wine, berries) and tobacco, with poor hygiene, certain medications, genetics, and trauma also contributing to discoloration.
 

What is the least damaging teeth whitening method?

The least damaging teeth whitening methods prioritize gentleness, with oil pulling and baking soda being very mild options for surface stains, while professionally made custom whitening trays from a dentist offer the safest bleaching, as the precise fit prevents gel leakage onto gums, minimizing sensitivity and damage. Over-the-counter strips and whitening toothpaste are generally safe when used as directed, but can cause gum irritation if misused.
 

What are the negatives of whitening strips?

Teeth whitening strips can cause temporary tooth/gum sensitivity, uneven whitening (especially with crooked teeth), and potential enamel damage with overuse, as the peroxide gel can irritate nerves and gums. They may not work on all stains (like tetracycline) and often give inconsistent results, leaving white spots or not reaching all teeth, with effects that aren't permanent.
 

How many times a year is it safe to use crest white strips?

You can typically use Crest Whitestrips kits up to twice a year, with many results lasting 6-12 months before needing a touch-up, but always check your specific product's instructions as usage (like daily application for 45 mins or 1 hour) varies, and some kits (like Supreme) have different rules, so reading the box is key for safety and effectiveness. 

Can Crest Whitestrips fix yellow teeth?

Home Remedies for Yellow Teeth

To whiten stained teeth, you'll need to start a whitening program. Try Crest Whitening Emulsions for whiter teeth with virtually no sensivity or Crest 3D Whitestrips™ Professional Effects for noticeably whiter teeth in 3 days and professional level results with a full kit.

Can dentists tell if you don't brush twice a day?

Basically, we can tell if you don't brush your teeth because around 4 hours after brushing, plaque will start to form on your teeth. It's a natural occurrence and collects on everyone. It's a sticky, colourless deposit of bacteria that forms between the tooth and the gum, but is easily removed by brushing.

Is it too late to start brushing my teeth?

No, it is never too late to start brushing your teeth, even if you've neglected them for years; starting now helps remove plaque, prevents further damage, fights bad breath, and supports any dental treatments, though seeing a dentist for a professional cleaning is crucial to address existing issues like decay or gum disease, say dentists at this blog post and other experts. Starting today, combined with flossing and regular dental visits, significantly improves your oral health and overall well-being, say experts at this blog post and other experts. 

Is it better to floss before or after brushing your teeth?

Most dental professionals recommend flossing before brushing, as it dislodges food and plaque, allowing fluoride toothpaste to better reach and protect the tooth surfaces between teeth and along the gumline. However, the most important thing is to floss daily and thoroughly, so if flossing after brushing keeps you consistent, that's still highly beneficial.