Accidental dental damage

Posted on: 18 April 2017

If you want to whiten your teeth, dentists will usually recommend that you have custom trays created to form around them. Whitening gel can then be applied to the trays, which you will then slip in to wear for a while, usually as you sleep. However, certain people may find that whitening strips are more beneficial.

Whitening strips are simply stuck against the teeth and then peeled away after the recommended time. They do not need to be purchased from your dentist, although it's still a very good idea to consult with your dentist before you start any kind of whitening procedure. Here are just three signs you might like to try them instead of trays.

1. You Have Sensitive Teeth

Since whitening strips do not need to be prescribed by a dentist, the solution of bleaching agent that they contain will not be as strong as the gel that tends to be used in conjunction with trays. This might sound like a bad thing, and it is true that trays will produce more significant results; however, that lack of strength can be a godsend for anyone who suffers from oral sensitivity.

Increased sensitivity is a common side effect of whitening. It isn't permanent, and your teeth won't actually be damaged, but the discomfort can be quite severe if you already had sensitivity problems before the process started. Since whitening strips are not as strong, sensitivity won't be as likely.

2. You Find Trays Too Obtrusive

It's relatively easy to forget that you have whitening strips applied to your teeth. In contrast, it's very hard to forget that you're wearing trays. Of course, most people don't mind the sensation, especially since many will sleep with their trays in. However, you might find that wearing them presents problems.

For example, people with very strong gag reflexes often find it hard to have trays in. People prone to excessive salivation may have the same problem. If you have sensitive gums, the pressure may become too wearing.

3. You're on a Budget

For whitening trays to be made, your dentist will need to take a mould of your mouth and have that mould used to create the trays. The process can be quite expensive. For many people, it's a worthy investment, but those on a budget might not feel comfortable spending a few hundred dollars on whitening trays, even if they can be used again in the future

Whitening strips can be mass produced, so you should be able to pick up a few sets from your local supermarket without spending much at all.

For more information and options for teeth whitening, contact a general dentist in your area.