I received a free teeth whitening kit with custom trays and some gel when I started with a new dentist. I was so busy with my move, that I completely forgot about them. I was going through an old purse and found the gel. Is that still good? I’m assuming the trays are good forever. It’s been about a year since I moved and had the appointment. I’d like to use it if it is still good, but don’t want to put anything dangerous in my mouth.
Kelli
Dear Kelli,
Life sure does get busy sometimes, doesn’t it? This is especially true after you’ve moved. I have to say I am impressed that you got a new dentist so quickly. That shows you really do care about the health of your teeth. Let’s start with the trays. These can stay fine for many, many years. The most important thing is that they are kept in a temperate climate. If it is left in the heat, it will warp and that will not be good for your teeth’ alignment. You also don’t want it to have any cracks and such. Other than that, you should be fine.
As for the gel, that is a bit of a different story. Typically, they are good for one year. If your dentist gave them to you immediately after they were manufactured, you should be fine. This is especially true if they were refrigerated which will prolong its life span. I don’t think there will be an expiration date on the tube itself. Generally, that will be stamped on the box that carries the lot. However, you can check. If it is there, go by that.
The good news is most dentists will give you refills on the gel as long as you are keeping up with your cleaning and checkup appointments. So, even if the gel is expired, you can still get your teeth whitened. You would not want to whiten them without having a cleaning first anyway because the results would be spotty.
This blog is brought to you by Marietta Dentist Dr. Cristi Cheek.
