Are you considering using teeth whitening strips but don’t know how long it takes to see results? You’ve come to the right place.
While all whitening strips are different, we’ve compiled a list of factors that affect the timeframe, a typical duration, and some tips that can help you maximize the results.
4 Factors That Affect How Long It Takes for Results
Everyone is different, so how long it takes to see results will vary from person to person. However, these factors directly impact the timeframe:
1. Strength of the Whitening Formula
Not all whitening strips were created equally — some are stronger (thanks to their ingredients) than others. And the stronger they are, the likelier you are to see results quicker.
Generally speaking, at-home whitening strips contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. Both of these compounds bleach the stains in your teeth, making them whiter. However, some strips contain chlorine dioxide instead.
While this compound is touted as a safe, more effective alternative, its safety is highly debated. Chlorine dioxide can strip your tooth enamel, making them more prone to restaining and increasing sensitivity.
As such, you should seek out whitening strips that use hydrogen peroxide as their active ingredient, like our Crest 3D White Strips. They’re the perfect strength for seeing quick results but don’t incur chlorine dioxide’s harmful side effects.
2. Frequency of Use
Success rests on following the instructions that come with the specific whitening strips you purchase. Your consistency and the duration of the treatment will alter the length of time it takes to see results. For example, if your whitening strips say to use once per day for several days, and you follow this perfectly, you will likely start to see results after a couple of days. You probably won’t see the results if you don’t follow it. It’s as simple as that.
3. Initial Shade/Damage of Teeth
Your teeth’s natural colour plays a significant role in determining the results of your whitening strip treatment. Some people have naturally whiter teeth, while others have a yellowish or greyish hue. Those with the latter may take longer to see results — and the results they see may not be as white as those with the former.
Ultimately, you need to have realistic expectations. Sadly, not everybody can achieve a Hollywood-white smile. But don’t let that put you off! You can still significantly brighten your teeth and boost your overall appearance with Crest 3D White Strips.
4. Lifestyle Habits
Certain habits can impact how long it takes to see results and their longevity. For instance, your whiter smile will gradually darken over time if your diet consists of staining foods and drinks (like berries, red wine, tea, and coffee). The same goes for smoking. Eradicating or limiting these habits can speed up your results and improve the level of whiteness.
Typical Timeframe for Results
While it’s essential to consider the factors above impacting the time it takes to see results, you can typically expect to see whiter teeth after just seven days. This timeframe, however, assumes you follow the instructions on the specific product and use them consistently.
Most whitening strips will yield more substantial results after two to four weeks. But this depends on the particular product you’re using. Always follow the instructions provided!
5 Tips to Maximize Results with Teeth Whitening Strips
Whitening strips are super easy to use, but following these five tips can help you get the most out of them:
1. Brush Your Teeth Before Application
Before applying the whitening strips, brush your teeth with a wet toothbrush. While you can use toothpaste if you’d like (it isn’t necessary), you should avoid fluoride as it may render the whitening agent (the primary ingredient that brightens your teeth) ineffective.
After brushing, rinse your mouth out with water. This will further open the pores in your teeth, which is necessary for whitening.
2. Avoid Touching Your Gums
While teeth whitening strips contain bleaching agents that aren’t as powerful as those used by dentists, they still have the power to damage soft tissue, like gums. Therefore, you must ensure the whitening strips do not touch your gums. Cut them with scissors (if necessary) to ensure they’re a perfect fit for your teeth.
3. Always Apply Them Evenly
As you likely already know, whitening strips only whiten the teeth they touch. Therefore, you must be meticulous when applying them to prevent missing crucial spots. Naturally, there will always be teeth that you miss (they aren’t entirely even, after all), but take your time during application to ensure even whitening as much as possible.
4. Take Before and After Pictures
Granted, this step won’t actually change how effective your tooth whitening strips are, but it’s a great way to notice the difference. Documenting the before, during, and after moments will let you see your progress unfolding, keeping you motivated to follow the rules and be consistent.
5. Don’t Consume Dark Food or Drink Afterward
Give your teeth a break after wearing whitening strips. Your teeth are more susceptible to changes after application, so eating dark foods or drinking dark beverages is a one-way ticket to Stain Town. So, avoid consuming foods or beverages like chocolate, coffee, berries, or soda until later to ensure you don’t ruin your results.
Are Teeth Whitening Strips Right for You?
If you’re a generally healthy adult, teeth whitening strips, like our Crest 3D White Strips, are right for you! Just ensure you follow the instructions on the package (including the information about how often and how long to wear them) to avoid the sensitivity-related side effects that can occur with improper use.
Go Forth and Whiten Your Teeth!
Typically, Crest 3D White Strips results are visible within seven days, but consistency, current teeth shade, and lifestyle habits may affect this. As long as you follow the package instructions, you’ll get the best possible results in the shortest possible time!
