When contemplating the optimal timing for brushing one’s teeth in relation to the use of whitening strips, a multitude of factors merits consideration. Is it more beneficial to meticulously brush before the application, thereby ensuring a pristine environment free from debris, or might it be advantageous to do so afterward, allowing the whitening agent to exert its maximum potential unobstructed? Additionally, what are the implications of such choices on the overall efficacy of the whitening process? Could brushing prior to the application potentially enhance foam and flavoring efficacy, or conversely, would it diminish the potency of the whitening agents if done too soon? Furthermore, might the cleaning agents in toothpaste interact negatively with the strips themselves, potentially thwarting their whitening prowess? As it stands, what are the recommendations of dental professionals regarding this practice, and how might individual oral health conditions influence such recommendations?