This isn't a "skin" question, but was the closest place I could think of to ask this...

Has anyone ever tried the Crest Whitening Strips. I have a friend who used them and they seemed to really do a great job. I got some and have been using them for 3 days so far (got the 7 day system) - they're easy to use and all, but when I put them on, they feel a little like they "burn" on my gums (just the edge of the gum by the teeth). I have good teeth and gums, so it's not like I have problems or anything that would cause that. My gums are a little sensitive only because I have a tendency to brush too hard (so my dentist tells me!).

If you've every tried them, have you experienced anything similar?

I LOVE them Lydia. In fact my dentist is the one who suggested them and he has never recommended a tooth whitening product for me.

I first tried the Colgate brush on and it ulcerated the tissue behind my lower lip. He told me to use the 14 day whitening strips and said that they would not damage my gums or the enamel on my teeth. I also have receding gums and have a lot of root exposed but he saw no problem with that.

The strips made my teeth whiter and brighter than they have ever been. And the results last far past the 6 months that the are expected to last. The 7-day batch is supposed to be a little more concentrated than the 14-day batch so I am not surprised they would cause a little irritation.

Oh, I've also used the Crest brush on night time solution. It is more convenient than the strips but I prefer the strips better.

Thanks Lyds and Georgia!
I've been debating which whitening method to try. I know there are several brands out there.
I've been tempted to go with the strips. So now I think I will.
Wanna look like this---> (OK - maybe not with green skin...)

My dentist recommended them too. They have also lowered the price of the sets that let you do a professional job. They make plastic forms of your mouth and give you the whitening product to use at home. He explained that this was easier on the gums because the forms are custom made for your mouth. He said that top and bottom cost a total of 200$ including the whitening product. So far I am pretty happy with the strips though... if your gums are getting too much whitener on them, you might want to consider paying the 200$.

Great post! I have been thinking about trying something, but didn't know what...or which one to try. Now I know! Thanks ladies.

I know this is an old thread, but I'll share anyway.

I used the Crest Night Effects last spring and the whiteness is still mostly there. At this great rate I think I'll be doing them once a year.

I agree Indigo, the effects last a long time. I used the white strips the summer of 2002. I touched up with the Night Effects paste the spring of 2003. I'm still sparkly white and I notice that I don't get stains frequently. Of course this could be due to using a battery operated Oral B toothbrush. They are fantastic for cleaning teeth.

A friend of mine has a sister that is a dentist. She told her to keep the whitestrips in the refrigerator. She said they worked better if cool.