“*sighs* heading to Walgreens.”
Posted on November 2, 2024 10:00 pm CDT
A Houston-based dentist recently went viral on TikTok when he shared an affordable Walgreens teeth whitening product.
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In his video, which has amassed over 1.5 million views at the time of writing, Dr. Christopher Emdin (@dr_emdin), recommends an unexpected product.
“Here’s a secret to whitening your teeth that most people don’t know,” says Emdin to begin, “and it costs you less than $20.”
Which product does the dentist recommend?
Emdin begins by pointing out the usual white Crest strips, which are often locked on store shelves due to their popularity and price.
But instead, he suggests something much more affordable: Walgreens brand whitening strips.
Emdin insists the Walgreens version works just as well, if not better, than the brand name. “It comes from a dentist,” he assures viewers, “so take my word for it.”
According to him, using the Walgreens brand white strips for more than 30 minutes can lead to noticeable results.
“I don’t know what they put in, that’s different in it,” he adds, “but it works better than the Crest White films. Hands down.”
Can the dentist’s claim be verified?
When comparing the ingredients in Crest 3D Whitestrips and Walgreens Ultra Whitening Stripsyou will find that they are quite similar.
Both products, for example, use hydrogen peroxide as the main bleaching agent.
However, one small difference is that the Walgreens version includes some additional binding agents that are not found in the Crest version.
These additional ingredients could, in theory, help Walgreens strips adhere better to teeth, potentially allowing for more stable enamel contact during use.
However, there is currently no evidence to confirm that this difference leads to better whitening results.
Viewers share their thoughts
In the comments, some users wish they had known this information earlier, while others offer additional tips on how to use the product.
“Use sensodyne toothpaste for a week before using white strips, then continue for a few months after,” advised one user. “It really helps with sensitivity.”
“Even the ones at the dollar tree,” wrote another. “Leave it on for 15 minutes or more and they really work.”
“After I just bought the top whitening strips for $45,” said a third, accompanying her comment with crying emojis.
@dr_emdin Wearing the Walgreens brand white strips for 3 hours will make a noticeable shade difference! This store brand works. Be sure to dab some Vaseline on your gums with a Qtip and use sensitivity toothpaste before and after to reduce sensitivity! You are welcome in advance.
The Daily Dot reached out to Dr. Christopher Emdin (@dr_emdin) via TikTok and Instagram direct message. We also contacted Crest and Walgreens via email.
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