Teeth whitening strips are a popular at-home teeth whitening method that many people use to brighten their smiles. However, if you have dental fillings, you may be wondering if teeth whitening strips will work on them. In this article, we will explore whether teeth whitening strips are effective on dental fillings.
Teeth whitening strips contain a bleaching agent, usually hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which helps to remove surface stains on the teeth. The strips are applied to the teeth for a set amount of time, typically between 30 minutes to an hour, and are then removed. While teeth whitening strips can effectively whiten natural teeth, they may not work as well on dental fillings.
Dental fillings are typically made of materials such as composite resin, porcelain, or amalgam. These materials do not respond to teeth whitening agents in the same way that natural tooth enamel does.
This means that the portion of the tooth that has been filled may not whiten as well as the surrounding natural teeth. In fact, the whitening agent in the strips can actually cause the filling material to become more noticeable, making it appear darker than the surrounding teeth.
It is also important to note that teeth whitening strips should not be used on any dental fillings that are visible when you smile. The strips can cause uneven whitening, which can make the filling more noticeable and detract from the overall appearance of your smile.
If you are looking to whiten your teeth and have dental fillings, there are alternative options that may be more effective.
For example, you may consider professional teeth whitening treatments, which are typically performed in-office by a dentist or dental hygienist. These treatments use stronger whitening agents than those found in over-the-counter products, which can provide more significant results.
Alternatively, you may consider cosmetic dental procedures such as dental bonding or porcelain veneers, which can help to improve the appearance of dental fillings and provide a more uniform and aesthetically pleasing smile.
In conclusion, teeth whitening strips may not be effective on dental fillings, as the filling material does not respond to the whitening agent in the same way that natural tooth enamel does. If you have dental fillings and are looking to whiten your teeth, it is best to consult with your dentist to determine the most effective and appropriate treatment options for your individual needs.
