One of the most popular over the counter teeth whitening products for improving your smile is the teeth whitening strip. It is easy to use and affordable.

Teeth whitening strips are thin plastic strips that contain a mild carbamide peroxide solution. The side with the whitening solution is pressed directly on to your teeth for a set length of time. These strips come in two different sets: One for your upper teeth, and another for your lower teeth. Whitening strips have become a very popular and convenient way for people to use - but how good is it? Here are some of their advantages and disadvantages.

The biggest advantage to using teeth whitening strips is that you're cutting down on the cost for whitening treatments. Visiting your dentist for a whitening treatment is expensive, so using strips can save you a lot of money. It would cost you no more than twenty to thirty US dollars per pack, which is far more affordable than getting the in-office treatment.

Another advantage is that teeth whitening strips are convenient. All you have to do is pull out a strip and place the side with the whitening solution directly on your teeth, and let it stay on for about half an hour. It's that easy. Whitening kits, toothpaste or gels, are more bothersome to use. Typically, over the counter strips may take anywhere from a week to three weeks before you see a dramatic change in teeth color. However, this would definitely depend on how often you use them and the concentration of the peroxide solution in that product. Over the counter whitening products may have between six to ten percent whitening solution in them.

On the other hand, using teeth whitening strips has some downsides to it. One disadvantage is in the limited size of individual strips. Because whitening strips come in uniform sizes and lengths, there is no telling if the brand your best friend's using is effective for you. The individual strips may not cover all of your teeth. This could result in uneven whitening. Getting around the contours and spaces between your teeth is another disadvantage. Improperly fitted strips may cause an uneven whitening of your teeth, with the more prominent surfaces becoming whiter than other parts.

Another disadvantage has to do with an individual whitening strip's shape, and your gums and teeth's sensitivity. Because an individual strip is straight, it may cause gum irritation, as it may come in contact with your gums. Choose a brand that has a lower solution concentration to avoid irritating your gums. If you have sensitive teeth and gums, stick to brands that have a lower whitening solution concentration. Make sure your teeth whitening strips covers most parts of your teeth for best results. And don't overdo your whitening treatment; abusive use of any teeth whitening product could result in the weakening of your teeth enamel and some minor damage to your gums.

Teeth whitening strips can help a lot in making you feel confident about making a good impression. The best way for you to be confident and feel great about yourself is by putting on that great smile - thanks to your teeth whitening strips!