Whitening strips are often the first option people try when it comes to teeth whitening because they’re easy to find and simple to use. But if you’re considering trying them out, you’re probably wondering: do whitening strips actually work? The short answer is yes, but they do have limits.
In this post, we’ll examine how whitening strips work, compare them to professional whitening, and explore why many people opt for an in-studio whitening experience instead.
How do teeth whitening strips work?
Whitening strips are thin pieces of plastic coated with a whitening gel. This gel contains peroxide (usually hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide), which bleaches away surface stains.
Typically, you apply the whitening strips to the fronts of your teeth, then leave them in place for 20–30 minutes. This allows the gel to gradually break down the surface stains on your teeth.
How effective are whitening strips compared to other whitening methods?
Whitening strips use very low concentrations of peroxide (typically 5–10%) in order to make them safer for people to use without the supervision of a dental professional. Professional whitening treatments can use much higher concentrations (20–40%), thanks to that professional oversight, which is why they can deliver results more quickly and dramatically.
Whitening strips can lighten teeth by 2–3 shades, but only if stains are mild and mostly on the surface. Professional whitening, by contrast, penetrates deeper into enamel, targeting stains that strips can’t reach.
This chart outlines the efficacy of the most common teeth whitening methods:
| Whitening method | Strength of peroxide | Typical results | Speed | Longevity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Whitening strips | 5–10% | 2–3 shades lighter | 1–2 weeks | A few months |
| Whitening toothpaste | <1% | Subtle brightening | Several weeks | Ongoing use |
| Professional in-studio whitening | 20–40% | Up to 8 shades lighter | 1 visit (about 40 minutes) | 1+ year with touch-ups |
| Custom take-home trays | 10–20% | 4–6 shades lighter | 1–2 weeks | Several months–1 year |
Professional whitening vs whitening strips
So why do people often end up choosing professional whitening over strips? Here’s a breakdown:
Stronger solutions, better results
- Dentists use higher concentrations of peroxide, which can be applied safely under their supervision. This allows professional whitening treatments to brighten teeth by up to 8 shades in just one visit.
Longer-lasting whitening
- Because professional treatments affect deeper stains, results can last a year or more with touch-ups.
Even whitening
- Custom whitening trays or in-studio methods ensure the whitening solution coats every tooth evenly, avoiding the patchy look strips sometimes cause.
When are whitening strips the right choice?
With all that being said, whitening strips do have their place, and can be a useful alternative to professional whitening under certain circumstances.
For instance, they can be a good option if you’re looking for a budget-friendly, short-term boost or a touch up between professional whitening sessions. They may also be a good fit for you if your stains are mild, if you want to brighten your smile on short notice before a special event, or if you’re curious about whitening but not ready to invest in professional treatment just yet.
Since whitening strips use a much weaker peroxide solution than professional treatments do, they’re less intense than in-studio whitening. While this means they won’t deliver the same dramatic or long-lasting results, they can still provide a modest, temporary improvement in shade when used consistently, and possibly with less short-term tooth sensitivity.
For all these reasons, you may find that whitening strips can play a helpful role in your teeth whitening routine.
How long do the results from whitening strips last?
Results from whitening strips usually last just a few months because, as noted above, the whitening gel is fairly weak and affects only surface stains.
Of course, lifestyle is also a factor. Your results may fade faster if you:
- Routinely drink dark beverages like coffee, tea, or red wine
- Smoke or use tobacco
- Skip professional dental cleanings
Professional whitening results also fade over time, but since professional whitening solutions penetrate deeper into enamel, they can last a year or more with good oral care.
Are there any risks or side effects of using whitening strips?
Whitening strips are generally safe, but they’re not risk-free. The most common issues include:
- Tooth sensitivity: caused by peroxide irritating the enamel
- Gum irritation: if strips slip onto your gums
- Uneven results: because strips don’t always reach between teeth or back molars
Another thing to keep in mind is that, like all teeth whitening methods, whitening strips don’t work on dental restorations like crowns, veneers, or fillings. This can lead to uneven or patchy-looking results.
Professional whitening is supervised by a dentist, meaning your gums are protected, and your results are more even and tailored to your smile. Your dentist can even create a customized cosmetic dental treatment plan that considers your restorations, resulting in a brighter smile that appears balanced and natural.
Frequently asked questions about whitening strips
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Are some whitening strip brands better than others?
Yes. Look for reputable brands with higher but still safe peroxide levels and lots of positive reviews.
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Can I drink or eat while wearing whitening strips?
You should avoid drinking or eating while wearing whitening strips because it can cause them to shift or even come off, reducing their effectiveness.
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Can strips remove deep stains or just surface stains?
Whitening strips are great for surface stains (like those from coffee or tobacco), but deep, intrinsic discoloration often requires professional whitening.
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How often can I safely use whitening strips?
Carefully follow the brand’s cycle outlined in the package instructions. Most recommend 10–14 days of use. Wait at least 6–12 months between treatments.
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How quickly will I see results?
Many users notice a brighter smile in just a few days, with full results after 1–2 weeks of consistent use.
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Should I rinse or brush after using whitening strips?
Yes, rinsing helps remove leftover gel, and gentle brushing with a soft-bristle toothbrush is okay unless stated otherwise in the package instructions.
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What happens if I leave my whitening strips on too long?
Be sure to only leave your whitening strips on for the time period indicated in the package instructions. Otherwise, you risk gum irritation, sensitivity, uneven whitening, and even enamel damage.
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Will whitening strips harm my enamel?
Used as directed, they’re generally safe, but overuse or high-strength formulas can weaken enamel over time.
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Will whitening strips work on dental restorations like crowns or veneers?
No, strips won’t lighten dental restorations. Keep this in mind if you’re considering using them, as it could result in a visible difference in color between your natural teeth and your restorations.
The bottom line
So, do whitening strips work? Yes! Whitening strips can make your teeth a little brighter if you’re consistent and your stains are mild. The results are subtle, but they can be a great addition to your whitening routine if used correctly.
For the fastest, safest, and most noticeable results, professional whitening is the clear winner. At Tend, our relaxed, stylish studios and compassionate dentists make whitening easy, comfortable, and effective.
Ready for a brighter smile in just one visit?
Contact Tend today to schedule your whitening consult and find the option that’s right for your smile.