What are whitening strips?

Whitening strips are over-the-counter products that allow users to whiten their teeth at home by affixing strips to the surface of their teeth to reduce the appearance of yellowing and stains. Whitening strips are clear, plastic strips that contain peroxide, which can whiten teeth over the course of several days and full results will emerge over the course of continual monthly use. These are low-cost, affordable options for those who wish to correct long-term teeth staining and improve the appearance of their smile. The purpose of whitening strips is inherently cosmetic and do not play a role in treating a specific medical condition, so they do not qualify under the IRS’s rules for qualified medical expenses and not eligible for consumer- directed healthcare account reimbursement.