Dr. Josephs in US News and World Report on Whitening Strips

From US News and World Report:

Whitening Strips

Tooth whitening strips typically contain a peroxide-based solution that’s evenly distributed on the thin, plastic strip. This is applied to the teeth and left in place for a period of time, allowing the solution to permeate the tooth’s surface.

At-home whitening strips are popular because they’re widely available and usually the least expensive option for teeth whitening. They can be effective when used properly. However, there are some potential drawbacks, notes Dr. Mitchell Josephs, a general, cosmetic and implant dentist with more than 30 years in practice in Palm Beach, Florida, warns against using popular at-home whitening strip products for several reasons:

• Whitening strips can cause white ulcers – a kind of chemical burn – on the gums. These sores are typically temporary, but can be painful or irritating until they heal.
• Whitening strips can lead to gum recession (as it can irritate the gums) and cause the teeth to become more sensitive.
• Whitening strips can’t bleach artificial crowns and veneers, so if you have such appliances, you’ll end up with a variety of tooth colors after whitening.
• Whitening strips don’t always work, which can mean wasted money.
• Whitening strips can weaken the enamel shell that protects the tooth, leading to other dental issues later.

While whitening strips can be safe and effective, overuse of such products lead to over-bleaching, which can cause your teeth to look gray. When that happens, “you’ll need $32,000 worth of veneers to fix it,” Josephs says.