I’m not sure what I’m doing wrong. I’ve been using Crest Whitestrips. They’ve been whitening everywhere they can reach. But, I have one filling that won’t whiten. Does that need a different type of white strip or do I just need to do that part longer than the other teeth?
Alex
Dear Alex,
You’re not doing anything wrong. One of the issues when you use over-the-counter whitening, is you don’t get a consultation with a dentist. When you get professional teeth whitening, even take-home whitening, your dentist would go over your situation. One of the first things he’d make sure you understood is that dental work does not whiten. Even the strongest of whitening gels won’t do anything except to natural tooth structure.
Usually, the recommendation is for you to to get your teeth whitened and then have your dental work re-done to match your new whiter teeth. In your case, it would mean replacing your fillings. A white, composite filling can be blended to match your tooth perfectly.
Whitening all Your Teeth
There are a couple more downsides to using Crest Whitestrips. Before I tell you those, let me assure you that they will whiten your teeth. They do work. However, they don’t have nearly the amount of potency which the gel your dentist can provide has. That’s because of laws regarding the strength of what can be sold outside of a medical professional’s care. So, while you will still get the teeth whitened that the strips reach, you will have to purchase many boxes in order to get your teeth as white as they could get through your dentist. In the end, it may end up costing you more.
Additionally, many people have smiles which are wider than the six or so teeth which the strips cover. That gives you a mismatched smile. Some people have found a way around this by using more than one strip on their arch of teeth. That can work, but again, it means purchasing more.
You can continue with your current treatment if you’re happy with it. Just be certain you see your dentist afterward. He can check on the health of your gums after treatment and replace any dental work you’ll need to match.
Best of luck to you.
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