Teeth whitening strips are thin, flexible plastic films coated with a bleaching agent designed to lighten the color of teeth. The active ingredient is typically a peroxide compound, which penetrates the enamel to break down stain molecules. The required application time is not universal and depends directly on the specific product’s formulation and the concentration of the whitening agent. Therefore, it is necessary to consult the specific instructions provided with each kit before application.
Manufacturer Guidelines for Standard Use
For the most common over-the-counter whitening strips, the typical application time is approximately 30 minutes per session. This duration is established to balance effective stain removal and minimizing potential side effects like temporary sensitivity. These standard kits often use hydrogen peroxide and are designed for a once-daily application over a course of 10 to 14 days. The 30-minute recommendation is based on the peroxide concentration in these consumer-grade products. The exact time can vary slightly, sometimes ranging between 20 and 45 minutes, so checking the specific brand instructions is important.
Understanding Treatment Duration Variations
The application time for whitening strips can vary significantly, ranging from 5 minutes to 60 minutes, with the primary factor being the strength of the bleaching agent. Products designed for rapid whitening often contain a higher concentration of hydrogen peroxide, requiring a much shorter contact time, sometimes only 5 to 15 minutes. This high potency allows for quicker results but demands strict adherence to the brief time limit. Conversely, some products use a lower concentration of the active ingredient or utilize carbamide peroxide, which breaks down more slowly. These slower-acting formulas may require a longer application time, sometimes up to an hour, to achieve the intended whitening effect.
Risks of Exceeding Application Time
Leaving whitening strips on longer than directed does not lead to whiter teeth; it significantly increases the risk of adverse effects. The active peroxide agent is chemically spent after the recommended period, meaning additional time provides no further whitening benefit. This prolonged exposure primarily targets the soft tissues and the dentin layer of the tooth. The most common consequence is dentine hypersensitivity, a sharp, temporary pain often triggered by cold or heat, which occurs because the peroxide irritates the nerves within the dentin tubules. Excessive application time also frequently results in gingival irritation, causing redness and soreness, and may pose a risk of enamel demineralization.