How often should you use teeth whitening bands?

Having discolored teeth is a common concern, with 80% of people who want a white smile. Whitening bands are a safe and effective way to remove stains and create brighter teeth. The key is to use them appropriately and consistently.

As a rule, you will use laundry bands once or twice a day for two weeks, for about 30 minutes at a time. These deadlines may vary depending on the brand you use and its individual instructions.

When you use laundry bands, search for bands that have the American Dental Association (ADA) approval seal. To date, the Crest 3D white bands are the only white strips listed on the ADA website. To use these products safely, the manufacturer recommends adhering to the following steps:

1. Choose a whitening strip with a lower concentration of whitening product at the start to check the sensitivity.
2. Avoid brushing your teeth just before applying the strip, as it helps them better adhere. However, your teeth should be clean.
3. Remove the whitening strip from its packaging and place the gel side on your teeth.
4. Press your teeth firmly and fold the rest of the band behind your teeth.
5. Avoid allowing the gel to touch your gums.
6. Pay attention to the manufacturer’s instructions for the duration of the wear of the bands and how often they apply them.
7. Do not use the product longer than recommended.

As a rule, laundry bands can light up the shadow of your teeth with one to two nuances. This can take a few days of consistent use before seeing the results.

The bleaching strips do not work on crowns, garnishes, veneers, implants and other similar products. These bands are only intended to whiten natural teeth. If you have stains on these types of dental products, you will have to speak with a dentist of your laundering options.

For the most part, whitening bands are safe products to use as long as you follow the instructions of your dentist and respect the manufacturer’s instructions. However, there are some risks, especially if you use them incorrectly or for a longer period than recommended.

Certain potential side effects of the use of whitening bands include:

• Teeth sensitivity: The sensitivity of the teeth is the most common side effect of the use of bleaching strips, especially if you use them more than recommended. As long as you follow the manufacturer’s directives, your sensitivity should disappear in a few days.
• Gum irritation: You can feel gum irritation if you allow gel on the whitening strip to touch your gums. Gum irritation can also occur if you use the product longer than recommended.
• Dental damage: Although rare with whitening bands, some laundering patterns can cause tooth damage and erosion, especially if they are aggressive. It is also possible for your teeth to lose minerals, to dehydrate and to undergo damage caused by the pulp.