Frequently Asked Questions

Tooth Whitening

Date Posted: 7/12/2005

Question
Adhesive strips

Answer
These use a thin flexible strip made from polyethylene or a similar plastic material to deliver a hydrogen peroxide bleaching gel to the front teeth. Once in position, the strips are pressed into place to gain the greatest contact with the tooth surface. This "trayless" delivery system provides for extended contact of peroxide (released from the undersurface of the strip) with the outer surface of the tooth. There are different shapes of strips to fit the upper and lower front teeth.

The strips typically carry 150-200 milligrams of whitening gel distributed uniformly across the strip surface, resulting in a hydrogen peroxide concentration of 6%. They are typically worn for 30 minutes twice daily for 14 days or longer. Adhesive strips are able to influence internal stains, and like paint-on products, can be applied to individual teeth.

When used as directed, adhesive strips can cause mild chemical irritation to the soft tissues of the mouth (particularly the gums), however they do not damage the natural tooth surface or the surface of fillings. Some patients will experience tooth sensitivity from the action of the peroxide within the teeth. The potential for experiencing this side effect is related to the concentration of the peroxide in the product being used (6% versus 10%), however it will just take longer to gain the same whitening effect with a lower concentration product. Usually any sensitivity experienced will be mild, and will resolve within a few days after the treatment has ended.

Product example: Macleans Brilliant White ™ dental whitening strips*

* Refer to Australian Dental Association Inc Seal of Approval at http://www.ada.org.au/oralHealth/sealofApp.aspx for other suitable products.

More questions in this category:

Should teeth be white?
Which dentist can bleach my teeth?
What are the likely causes of tooth discolouration?
Why is it important to know the likely causes of tooth discolouration?
How are surface stains treated?
What are “conventional” whitening toothpastes and how do they work?
What is tooth lightening?
How are internal stains treated?
Are there issues with oxygen-based bleaching methods?
Are peroxides safe to use?
What are advanced formula whitening toothpastes and how do they work?
Paint-on whitening treatments
Adhesive strips
“Home tray vital bleaching”
“Power bleaching”
How effective is home bleaching in whitening the teeth?
Is home bleaching safe?
What is home bleaching?
Are bleaching toothpastes very effective?
How long does the bleaching last?

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