Are you eager to unveil a brighter smile but unsure how to use Crest Whitestrips effectively? We’ve got you covered with step-by-step instructions, safety tips, and post-treatment care advice to ensure your teeth whitening experience is effective and comfortable.
Step-by-Step Guide how to Use Crest Whitestrips
- Prepare the Strips: Start by removing the upper and lower strips from the packaging. If needed, cut each strip to match the precise height of your teeth.
- Apply the Strips: Peel off the plastic covering the adhesive layer and carefully place each strip on your teeth, ensuring the gel side sticks onto them. Avoid letting the strips touch the gum line.
- Whitening Session: Let the strips sit on your teeth for the duration specified on the packaging, typically between 10 to 30 minutes. If your kit includes an LED accelerator light, use it as instructed.
- Remove and Rinse: After the designated time, remove the white strips from your teeth and rinse your mouth with water.
- Post-Treatment Care: Refrain from brushing your teeth for at least two hours and avoid eating for at least one hour after the whitening session. Repeat the treatment daily for the recommended number of days, typically 10 to 20 consecutive days.
- Avoid Toothpaste Before Whitening: It’s crucial not to brush your teeth with toothpaste immediately before using the whitening strips, as this can increase tooth sensitivity. Instead, clean your teeth with a wet toothbrush to ensure even gel distribution.
Are Crest Whitestrips Safe?
Crest Whitestrips are generally safe for occasional use, but proper usage is essential to prevent any adverse effects on your gums or teeth. Always consult your dentist before starting any whitening treatment, especially if you have existing dental issues or concerns.
Crest 3D Whitestrips Glamorous White, bearing the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of acceptance, are recognized for their safety and efficacy in teeth whitening.
Effectiveness of Crest Whitestrips
To gauge the effectiveness of Crest Whitestrips, it’s vital to understand the type of teeth discoloration you’re dealing with:
- Enamel Discoloration: Surface stains caused by consuming staining foods and drinks like coffee or red wine.
- Dentin Discoloration: Internal discoloration resulting from aging, trauma, or lifestyle factors like smoking.
Crest Whitestrips contain peroxide to penetrate the dentin and reduce the appearance of stains. However, it’s worth noting that yellow stains are more likely to whiten noticeably than gray stains with peroxide-based whitening systems.
Who Should Avoid Using Crest Whitestrips?
While Crest Whitestrips are suitable for many users, certain individuals should refrain from using them:
- Those who have recently undergone dental procedures like fillings or dentures.
- Individuals planning to undergo dental work in the near future.
- Those attempting to whiten artificial teeth, as whitening products only work on natural teeth.
Maintaining White Teeth After Whitening
Preserving your bright smile goes beyond the whitening treatment. Here are some tips for maintaining white teeth post-whitening:
- Avoid Staining Beverages: Minimize consumption of beverages like coffee, tea, or cola, and if you indulge, rinse your mouth afterward to prevent stains.
- Use Whitening Toothpaste Sparingly: Limit the use of whitening toothpaste to once or twice a week to prevent increased sensitivity.
- Regular Flossing: Incorporate daily flossing into your oral care routine to remove food particles and maintain oral hygiene.
Understanding Crest Whitestrips Ingredients
Familiarize yourself with the key ingredients in Crest Whitestrips to ensure a safe whitening experience:
- Hydrogen Peroxide: Whitening agent that penetrates tooth enamel.
- Sodium Hydroxide: Alkaline compound used to enhance whitening effects but should be used cautiously.
- PVP and Carbomer 956: Ingredients providing adhesive properties for strip retention.
- PEG-8: Ingredient with potential allergenic properties, causing hives in some individuals.
- Other ingredients include pyrophosphate and acrylates copolymer, contributing to tartar protection and strip integrity, respectively.
Frequency and Duration of Use
The frequency and duration of Crest Whitestrips usage vary depending on the product’s strength and instructions provided. It’s crucial to adhere to the recommended guidelines for optimal results and safety.
Possible Side Effects and Risks
While Crest Whitestrips are generally safe when used correctly, users may experience some side effects, including uneven whitening, gum sensitivity, tooth sensitivity, and disruption of the oral microbiome. Consult your dentist if you encounter any concerns during or after treatment.
Cost and Where to Buy
Crest Whitestrips are available at various price points, typically ranging from $30 to $85, depending on the product type and quantity. They can be purchased from reputable retailers like Amazon, Walgreens, Walmart, and Target.