Crest Whitening Strips are a popular and easy-to-use product that many people rely on for teeth whitening. These strips are designed to be an at-home solution to brighten your smile, using a special gel that works to remove stains and discoloration on your teeth. However, it’s important to know how to use them correctly for the best results. One of the key aspects to understand is identifying the gel side of the strip and applying it properly.
What Are Crest Whitening Strips?
Crest Whitening Strips are thin, flexible pieces of plastic coated with a gel that contains hydrogen peroxide, the active ingredient responsible for whitening teeth. The strips come in a box with separate upper and lower strips for your top and bottom teeth. They are simple to apply and are often a more affordable option compared to professional dental treatments.
How Do Crest Whitening Strips Work?
The gel on the Crest Whitening Strips contains hydrogen peroxide, which is a bleaching agent. When the strips are applied to your teeth, the hydrogen peroxide breaks down the stains and discoloration on the enamel. Over time, as you use the strips, your teeth become whiter and brighter.
The strips are designed to adhere to the shape of your teeth, ensuring the gel makes contact with the areas most affected by staining. The process is gradual, and you may see noticeable results after a few applications, though some users may experience results after just one treatment.
Identifying the Gel Side of Crest Whitening Strips
One of the most important things to know when using Crest Whitening Strips is how to identify the gel side. The gel side is the part that contains the hydrogen peroxide and is responsible for whitening your teeth.
The Appearance of the Gel Side
The gel side of the Crest Whitening Strip is usually a slightly wet or tacky surface. You can easily identify it by feeling the strip with your fingers. The gel will feel sticky compared to the smooth, non-gel side. The gel side will also appear shiny and slightly transparent.
How to Tell the Difference Between the Two Sides
If you’re unsure about which side to apply to your teeth, it helps to look closely at the strip. The non-gel side will typically be matte, with no shine, while the gel side will be glossy. In some cases, the packaging may provide a visual guide showing you which side is which.
Why It’s Important to Apply the Gel Side to Your Teeth
The gel side contains the active ingredients that whiten your teeth. If you mistakenly apply the non-gel side to your teeth, you won’t get the whitening effect. It’s essential to apply the gel side directly to your enamel to achieve the desired whitening results.
How to Apply Crest Whitening Strips
Applying Crest Whitening Strips is a simple process, but it’s important to follow the instructions carefully to achieve the best results.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying the Strips
Clean Your Teeth: Before applying the strips, brush your teeth to remove any food particles or plaque. Make sure your teeth are dry before applying the strips. This helps the strips adhere better.
Open the Packaging: Each set of Crest Whitening Strips comes individually packaged. Open the packaging and remove the upper and lower strips.
Apply the Upper Strip: Take the upper strip and place it on your upper teeth, making sure that the gel side is facing your teeth. Press the strip gently to ensure it sticks to your teeth.
Apply the Lower Strip: Similarly, take the lower strip and apply it to your bottom teeth. Again, ensure that the gel side is facing your teeth.
Press and Adjust: Gently press the strips onto your teeth to ensure that they make good contact with the enamel. If necessary, adjust the strips so that they fit comfortably on your teeth.
Wait for the Recommended Time: Most Crest Whitening Strips need to be left on for about 30 minutes, but check the instructions on the packaging to confirm the recommended time for your specific product.
Remove the Strips: After the recommended time has passed, carefully peel the strips off your teeth. Dispose of the strips in the trash.
Brush Your Teeth Again: After removing the strips, brush your teeth gently to remove any remaining gel.
Tips for Applying Crest Whitening Strips Effectively
Avoid Eating or Drinking: After applying the strips, avoid eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes to allow the whitening gel to work effectively.
Be Consistent: For the best results, use the strips consistently according to the instructions. This may mean using them once or twice a day for up to two weeks.
Do Not Overuse: Overuse of whitening strips can lead to tooth sensitivity or irritation of the gums. Always follow the recommended usage instructions on the packaging.
Use a Timer: It can be easy to forget how long you’ve had the strips on. Use a timer to ensure you don’t leave them on for too long.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Crest Whitening Strips
While Crest Whitening Strips are simple to use, there are some common mistakes that people often make. Avoiding these mistakes will help you achieve the best results.
Applying the Non-Gel Side to Your Teeth
One of the biggest mistakes is applying the non-gel side of the strip to your teeth. This will prevent the whitening agent from coming into contact with your enamel, and you won’t get the whitening effect.
Leaving the Strips On Too Long
Leaving the strips on for too long can cause tooth sensitivity or irritation of your gums. Always follow the instructions regarding how long to leave the strips on.
Using the Strips on Dirty Teeth
If you apply the strips to dirty or wet teeth, the strips may not stick properly, and the gel won’t work as effectively. Always brush your teeth before applying the strips to ensure maximum contact with your enamel.
Not Removing the Strips Correctly
When removing the strips, do so gently to avoid damaging your teeth or gums. If you peel the strips off too quickly, you may risk irritation.
Not Following the Recommended Treatment Period
To achieve the best results, it’s important to follow the recommended treatment period. If you stop using the strips before completing the full treatment, you may not achieve the desired level of whitening.
Possible Side Effects of Crest Whitening Strips
Crest Whitening Strips are generally safe to use when followed according to the instructions. However, some users may experience minor side effects, such as:
Tooth Sensitivity: Some people may experience increased sensitivity in their teeth after using whitening strips. This is temporary and should subside after a few hours.
Gum Irritation: If the gel comes into contact with your gums, it may cause irritation or discomfort. Be sure to apply the strips carefully and avoid excessive gel overflow.
Uneven Whitening: If the strips are not applied correctly, or if the gel doesn’t contact all areas of the teeth, you may notice uneven whitening.
If you experience any discomfort or side effects, it’s a good idea to stop using the product and consult with your dentist.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you have concerns about tooth sensitivity, gum irritation, or if you’re unsure about using Crest Whitening Strips, it’s always best to consult with a dentist. A dental professional can help determine the best whitening treatment for your needs, especially if you have sensitive teeth or underlying dental issues.
Conclusion
Crest Whitening Strips are a convenient and effective way to whiten your teeth at home. Understanding how to identify the gel side of the strip and apply it properly is essential for achieving the best results. By following the step-by-step application instructions, avoiding common mistakes, and being mindful of potential side effects, you can enjoy a brighter, more confident smile. If you have any doubts or experience discomfort, it’s always wise to seek advice from your dentist.
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