Frequently Asked Questions – Crest Whitestrips
We have comprised a full list of frequently asked questions regarding Crest Teeth Whitening Strips. We believe most questions have been answered below, however please feel free to contact us with any other queries, we are always happy to help.
Can crest strips harmful to teeth or can they damage the enamel?
No, this product is formulated to be safe and effective when used as directed. All our safety data indicate that they are safe on tooth enamel. They contain the same whitening ingredient as the expensive professional products dentists use to whiten teeth.
Will using strips affect my dental work?
THEY WILL ONLY WHITEN NATURAL TEETH. The strips will not whiten caps, crowns, veneers, fillings or dentures. Do not use with dental braces. If you are in need of dental work, have dental work or have staining from medication, ask your dentist to determine if whitening is appropriate. Crest Advanced Vivid and Professional Effects are designed to hold well to teeth, do not use on loose teeth or temporary or loose restorations.
When will I start to notice results?
Noticeable results vary by person, but most people start seeing results halfway through the regimen, with full results upon completion
Can pregnant women use Crest whitestrips?
While there is no evidence that teeth whitening while breastfeeding or being pregnant is harmful, we recommend you check with your doctor before using Crest 3D White Whitestrips.
How long does teeth whitening last?
The length of time your teeth will stay whiter is influenced by several factors, including how often you drink coffee, tea, dark colas, red wine or smoke. Crest’s most advanced whitening strips, Supreme FlexFit & Professional Effects, keep your teeth whiter for 12 months.
How long after whitening teeth should I wait to eat?
Eating after using strips will not affect results. There are no eating or drinking restrictions after use.
Can I wear the strips longer than the instructed wear time to get better whitening results?
We recommend following usage instructions for each product. Longer wear time can result in tooth sensitivity and/or gum discomfort.
Sometimes I see white spots on my teeth immediately after I remove a strip. Will they go away?
Yes, the white spots are temporary. These spots are not harmful and will go away in a few hours.
Is it okay to use teeth strips back to back?
Yes. With Crest, you can use one strip right after the other (back-to-back). Wear strips for the time instructed, then remove; rinse or wipe if needed, then apply a second strip.
What happens if I skip an application?
You can skip or miss a couple of applications without affecting your whitening benefit.
Can I reuse a strip?
No, Using a strip over again will not provide any tooth whitening benefits. Even though there may be gel remaining on the strip when you take it off, most of the hydrogen peroxide has been depleted.
What do I do if the strips keep coming off?
Look into a mirror to properly apply the strips, making sure the strip is in good contact with the teeth. If the strips begin to slip, close your mouth and create suction to tighten the strips up again. Don’t touch the strips excessively with your tongue. You can try gently tucking the strip in the spaces between your teeth with your fingernail, then folding it behind your teeth. You can also try one of the products with Advanced Seal—specially designed to strongly adhere to your teeth.
How do I remove gel left on my teeth after using strips?
Since the left over gel is not harmful, you can do any of the following:
- Rinse your mouth with water
- Wipe the gel off your teeth
- Brush it off
- Leave it, as it will dissolve eventually
Will my teeth be more susceptible to stains after use?
No. it will not cause your teeth to stain faster. Scratching teeth while brushing actually makes your teeth more pourus and susceptible to staining at the same time as cleaning them.
Can I wear overnight while I sleep?
No, do not wear teeth strips overnight or while sleeping.
Can I brush my teeth immediately before use?
Do NOT brush immediately BEFORE applying strips. To avoid gum irritation, allow for some time to pass after you have brushed your teeth to apply strips
Can I brush my teeth immediately after use?
Yes, after use, you can brush gently.
Can I use strips after a professional cleaning from a dentist or hygienist?
You may want to wait a few days after a cleaning if your mouth is sensitive before using Crest 3D White Whitestrips, otherwise, you may have more discomfort. We recommend you discuss this with your dentist.
Can I use whitening toothpaste while using strips?
Yes. We recommend using Crest 3D White Toothpastes while you’re whitening your teeth to help maintain your white smile.
Can I use mouthwash after use?
It’s OK to rinse with an over the counter mouthwash after using strips. We recommend using Crest 3D White Multi-Care Whitening Rinse to help maintain your whiter teeth.
My strips are expired. Can I still use them?
Although teeth strips that have passed expiration date are still safe, we don’t recommend using them past their expiration date, as the whitening ingredient’s efficacy will be weakened.
What are the ingredients in Crest strips?
Water | Prevents carbomer from dehydrating the teeth. |
Glycerin | Humectant, acts to thicken gel, helps make gel sticky so it will adhere to teeth. |
Hydrogen Peroxide | Whitening Ingredient |
Carbomer | Gel agent, gives adhesion properties to gel |
Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) | Adhesive polymer |
PEG | Humectant, acts to thicken gel, helps make gel sticky so it will adhere to teeth. |
Acrylates Copolymer | Thickening polymer. Helps keep the strip in one piece during use. |
Sodium Hydroxide* | Adjusts pH to neutral |
Sodium Saccharin* | Better taste |
Pyrophosphate* | Protects against tartar in Crest 3D White Whitestrips Stain Shield only |
* These ingredients are the source of sodium content – See Nutrition Facts twistie for total sodium content. | |
INGREDIENTS – Strip & Backing | |
Textured Whitening Strip | Polyethylene |
Backing | Polypropylene |