Is This Dentist’s Whitening Trick Worth Trying?
Could your smile be brighter for less than $20? One dentist claims the secret lies in a store-brand teeth whitening product.
In a recent TikTok video, a dentist (who goes by the username @dr_emdin) shared a surprising recommendation for whitening teeth—Walgreens brand whitening strips. “Here’s a secret to whitening your teeth that most people don’t know, and it costs you under $20,” he said in the video, while standing in a store aisle.
After showing a box of the Walgreens strips to the camera, he emphasized his expertise. “It’s coming from a dentist, so take my word for it,” he added. According to the dentist, these strips “work better than the Crest White strips. Hands down.”
Wearing the Walgreens brand whitestrips for 3 hours will give you a noticable shade difference! This store brand works. Make sure to put a little vaseline on your gums with a Qtip and to use sensitivity tooth paste before and after to decrease the sensitivity! You are welcome in advance.
The video quickly gained attention from viewers eager to brighten their smiles. One post proclaimed: “This is a game changer! I sweaarrr by these!” Another viewer chimed in: “Really works! Just did an hour with these and I can already see a difference.” And a third commenter shared their findings: “I’ve been using these for years! I love them!”
The dentist’s wallet-friendly recommendation paired with the enthusiastic TikTok chatter begs the question: Are Walgreens whitening strips a hidden gem for achieving a brighter smile without breaking the bank?
Are Walgreens whitening strips effective for teeth whitening?
## Is This Dentist’s Whitening Trick Worth Trying?
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. Today we’re talking about teeth whitening, a topic that’s always top of mind for many of us. A recent viral TikTok from a dentist, @dr_emdin, has people buzzing. He recommends Walgreens brand whitening strips as a budget-friendly way to brighten your smile. Joining us today to discuss this is Dr. Sarah Johnson, a cosmetic dentist. Dr. Johnson, thanks for being here.
**Dr. Johnson:** Thanks for having me.
**Host:** So, this dentist claims you can achieve noticeably whiter teeth for under $20 with these strips. What’s your take on that?
**Dr. Johnson:** It’s certainly intriguing. Over-the-counter whitening products can can be effective to some degree, and store brands often utilize similar ingredients to pricier options. However, it’s crucial to manage expectations. [[1](https://www.walgreens.com/q/whitening%20strips)]shows that these strips are widely available, suggesting ingredients are likely standard peroxide-based whiteners. These can lighten teeth a shade or two, but significant, dramatic changes usually require professional treatment.
**Host:** What are some potential downsides to using whitening strips, even drugstore brands?
**Dr. Johnson:** Sensitivity is a common side effect. Peroxide can irritate gums and make teeth sensitive to cold or hot. It’s important to follow the instructions carefully and not overuse the strips. Also, pre-existing dental issues like cavities or enamel erosion can be exacerbated by whitening products.
**Host:** So, for viewers considering this trick, what advice would you give them?
**Dr. Johnson:** If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option and have healthy teeth, trying Walgreens whitening strips could be worth a shot. Just be aware of potential side effects and manage expectations. For more dramatic results or if you have any concerns about your oral health, consulting a dentist is always the best course of action.
**Host:** Excellent advice! Thank you so much for sharing your expertise, Dr. Johnson.
**Dr. Johnson:** My pleasure.