I Left My Teeth Whitening Strips On Too Long
Teeth whitening strips are a popular and convenient way to achieve a brighter smile. They are easy to use and can be done in the comfort of your own home. However, if you’re not careful, leaving the strips on for too long can cause serious damage to your teeth and gums.
How do teeth whitening strips work?
Teeth whitening strips are thin, flexible pieces of plastic that are coated with a whitening gel. The gel contains hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which helps to bleach the teeth and remove stains.
The strips are placed over the teeth and left on for a certain amount of time, depending on the brand and strength of the product. Most strips are worn for 30 minutes to an hour, once or twice a day, for a period of one to two weeks.
What happens if you leave the strips on too long?
Leaving teeth whitening strips on for too long can cause a number of problems, including:
- Increased sensitivity: The whitening gel can irritate the nerves in the teeth, causing pain and sensitivity.
- Gum irritation: The gel can also irritate the gums, causing redness, swelling, and bleeding.
- Enamel damage: Overuse of whitening products can damage the enamel, causing it to become thin and transparent. This can make the teeth look yellow and lead to increased sensitivity.
- Uneven whitening: Leaving the strips on for too long can cause uneven whitening, with some areas of the teeth becoming whiter than others.
What should you do if you leave the strips on too long?
If you accidentally leave your teeth whitening strips on for too long, there are a few things you can do:
- Remove the strips immediately: The longer the strips are on, the more damage they can cause. Take them off as soon as you realize your mistake.
- Rinse your mouth with water: This will help to remove any excess gel and soothe irritated gums.
- Apply a desensitizing gel: If your teeth are feeling sensitive, apply a desensitizing gel to help ease the pain.
- Contact your dentist: If you’re experiencing severe sensitivity or pain, contact your dentist for advice.
How can you avoid leaving the strips on too long?
To avoid the risk of leaving your teeth whitening strips on for too long, follow these tips:
- Read the instructions carefully: Make sure you understand how long the strips should be worn for and how often.
- Set a timer: Use a timer or alarm to remind you when it’s time to take the strips off.
- Use a lower strength product: If you have sensitive teeth or gums, opt for a lower strength whitening product.
- Take breaks: Don’t use whitening strips every day. Give your teeth and gums a break between treatments.
The Bottom Line
Teeth whitening strips can be a safe and effective way to brighten your smile, but it’s important to use them correctly. Leaving the strips on for too long can cause damage to your teeth and gums, so be sure to follow the instructions carefully and take breaks between treatments. If you do accidentally leave the strips on for too long, remove them immediately and seek advice from your dentist if necessary.
