Can I Drink Coffee When Using Crest Whitening Strips?
Do you enjoy the pleasure of a morning cup of coffee but hate having your teeth stained by its deep colors? Well, don’t feel left out just yet. If you use Crest whitening strips to help keep those stains away, you could still enjoy a hot or cold cup of java. But there are still a couple of important points to consider.
It’s been said that coffee can actually help whiten teeth. According to Dr. Peter Auster, a professor of dentistry at Columbia University, coffee does help keep tooth enamel shiny because it has some acids in it that wear down stains gradually. On the other hand, if you’re using Crest whitening strips, he cautions that excessive use of the strips can potentially wear down the enamel of your teeth. Therefore, it is best to alternate using both methods to help improve the color of your teeth.
Another factor to consider is the acids in coffee, as they can weaken the enamel and weaken the action of the strips. So it is advisable to not drink too much coffee — no more than two cups per day — when using Crest whitening strips. The same applies to other drinks that might also stain teeth, such as tea, red wine and colas.
And don’t forget to brush your teeth after consuming any beverage. As you know, brushing helps to remove any residue that might have attached itself to your teeth.
Finally, as with any product, you should consult with your dentist to ensure that you’re following the right treatment protocol to safely whiten your teeth and to avoid any potential long-term damage. Your dentist can help educate you on the best approach to properly maintain a healthy and beautiful smile.
Are Whitening Strips Worth It?
If you’re considering whitening your teeth with Crest whitening strips, you may already be aware of the active ingredient in the strips. It is a peroxide-like substance called hydrogen peroxide, which works by breaking down stains and discoloration to give your teeth a whiter appearance in a short time period.
The bleaching effects of the strips can last anywhere from one to three months. It really depends on how well you take care of the strips and follow the directions from the manufacturer. With proper maintenance, the strips can have a lasting effect.
The strips can also be used to whiten particular areas of teeth that have been stained by other foods or beverages. While the whitening strips won’t whiten teeth after a certain level of discoloration, they can offer a more affordable shade of whitening, while still providing a noticeable improvement. In the end, it’s up to you to decide if Crest whitening strips are worth it.
If you’re on the fence, you may want to take into consideration the cost and convenience of the strips. At a fraction of the cost of in-office whitening procedures, and with an easy application process, Crest whitening strips are definitely worth a consideration.
Are They Safe?
When used as instructed, Crest whitening strips are considered to be safe. However, it’s important to be aware of some potential side effects that may come after using the strips. These include irritation and gum sensitivity.
If you have existing gum sensitivity, it’s recommended that you consult with your dentist about alternatives to whitening strips. Furthermore, if you notice any burning or irritation in your mouth after using the strips, you should immediately discontinue the use and speak to your dentist.
To minimize any sensitivity issues, the American Dental Association states that whitening strips should only be used once or twice a month. If you’re curious or worried, it is best to always ask your dentist first before using any whitening product.
How Can I Maintain My Bright Smile?
If you want to keep your newly whitened teeth looking and feeling beautiful, there are several methods you can use for maintenance.
You should brush after every meal and before going to bed. Furthermore, it’s important to floss and use a fluoride toothpaste. For best results, you might also want to consider using a tongue scraper to help remove bacteria from your mouth. This will help keep your oral health in tip-top condition.
You may also want to perform an occasional “bleaching” session with Crest whitening strips. This can help to maintain the brightness of your teeth and prolong the effect of the whitening process, so long as it is done in moderation.
Other habits to maintain a healthy and white smile include avoiding or limiting foods and drinks that contain high levels of acid and sugar. Fruits and vegetables, on the other hand, like carrots, apples, and leafy greens, are excellent options when it comes to maintaining your smile. They are naturally very low in sugar and acids, and instead, can help white your teeth naturally.
What Can I Do if Whitening Strips Don’t Work?
If you’re using Crest whitening strips and notice very little to no change in the whiteness of your teeth, there could be several potential explanations. It could simply be that your teeth are naturally more resistant to whitening, or it might be that the whitening strips have reached their maximum effectiveness.
In the event that whitening strips don’t seem to be working for you, there are a few other methods you can try. For example, you may want to consider custom take-home whitening trays that are designed specifically for your mouth. Or, if you are looking for more drastic results, you may want to see if professional in-office whitening treatments would be a good fit.
Ultimately, it is important to make a wise decision when it comes to whitening your teeth. Always remember to talk to your dentist first, as they can offer you the best advice when it comes to whitening your teeth safely and effectively.
What Alternative Products Are There?
If you’re looking for an alternative to whitening strips, there are products such as toothpaste and gel that may be beneficial. These products work by fighting bacteria and plaque, which is known to cause tooth discoloration. Additionally, some toothpaste formulas also contain baking soda, which is known to help reduce staining.
Another alternative is laser teeth whitening. This procedure involves shining a powerful light onto the teeth to help breakdown stains and discoloration. The treatment goes through several cycles and lasts about an hour. It is a more costly option, but results may be seen immediately.
It is important to weigh the pros and cons of each method before coming to a decision. If you’re still not sure, your dentist can provide you with more information and help you decide which route is best for your teeth.
Can I Use Whitening Strips and Mouthwash Together?
Using a mouthwash after brushing is great for helping to remove bacteria and other particles left in the mouth. However, it is important to bear in mind that some mouthwashes contain alcohol, which is known to lead to further tooth discoloration. Therefore, it is not recommended to use Mouthwashes and Crest whitening strips together.
If you have an infection or are taking antibiotics for any reason and you’re considering using Crest whitening strips, it is advised that you seek the advice of a dentist before doing so. As antibiotics can weaken tooth enamel, using the strips could potentially lead to further damage.
These are just some of the things to consider before using whitening strips. Ultimately, it is best to do your research and consult with your dentist before selecting a whitening product or treatment. This can help ensure that you get the best possible results and maintain a beautiful smile.
