Why Aren't My Store-bought Whitening Strips Working?

We all want a gleaming, pearly-white smile that radiates confidence. Teeth whitening strips are a convenient and popular choice for achieving that goal, promising dazzling results from the comfort of your own home. However, if you're wondering why those store-bought whitening strips aren't delivering the expected outcome, you're not alone. 

In this article, Yev Davydov, DDS, Brianna Davydov, DDS, and our exceptional team in Midtown, New York, are here to not only help you explore the reasons behind this common issue but also offer solutions to help you achieve the bright smile you've been dreaming of. 

Let’s get started! 

Understanding teeth whitening strips 

Before delving into the potential reasons behind your whitening strips' lack of effectiveness, it's crucial to grasp how these strips function and what they can realistically achieve. Teeth whitening strips typically contain a peroxide-based gel designed to bleach tooth enamel. You apply this gel to the strips, then affix them to your teeth for a specified duration.

Over time, the peroxide works its way into the enamel, breaking down surface stains caused by culprits like coffee, tea, red wine, and smoking. As a result, whitening strips can lighten teeth by several shades, delivering noticeable enhancements in your smile's overall color.

Reasons your whitening strips might not be working 

Now, let's explore some common factors that could be hindering the success of your teeth whitening strips:

Inadequate application 

One of the most common issues is inconsistent or incorrect application. Ensure the strips get evenly placed on your teeth without any gaps or overlaps.

Insufficient contact time 

Whitening strips must remain in contact with your teeth for the recommended duration. Avoid removing them prematurely to achieve the best results.

Stains beyond the surface level 

While whitening strips effectively address surface stains, they may not be suitable for deep, intrinsic discoloration. Consult with our team of experts if your stains originate from within the tooth.

Quality of whitening strips 

The effectiveness of whitening strips can vary among brands and products. Investing in a reputable and dentist-recommended brand can make a significant difference.

Enhancing your teeth whitening experience 

If you're determined to achieve a brighter smile and want to enhance the effectiveness of your whitening strips, consider these tips:

Maintain dental hygiene 

Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are essential for maintaining a healthy smile and preventing new stains from forming.

Limit stain-causing habits 

Cut down on or eliminate habits that lead to teeth staining, such as smoking or excessively consuming coffee or red wine.

Consult a dentist 

If you're still unsatisfied with the results or have deep-seated discoloration, contact our team for professional teeth whitening options that may be more effective.

In-office professional teeth whitening 

Another option is in-office professional teeth whitening, which delivers rapid and highly effective results under the supervision of trained dental professionals.

In conclusion, while store-bought teeth whitening strips can produce noticeable improvements in the color of your teeth, their effectiveness may be influenced by various factors. To maximize your results, ensure proper application, adhere to the recommended contact time, and address surface stains. 

If you’re ready to learn more about teeth whitening options, call our office at 646-933-8174 or visit our website to request an appointment today!