Whitening gels and strips both rely on bleaching agents, typically hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. Gels often come in a wider range of concentrations. Professional-grade gels can have up to 20% or more of the active ingredient, while over-the-counter versions usually hover around 10 – 15%. This higher concentration gives gels the potential to break down stains more quickly.
In contrast, whitening strips usually have lower concentrations of the bleaching agents, often in the 6 – 10% range. The lower concentration is designed to make them more user-friendly for at-home use and to reduce the risk of immediate side effects. However, this also means that they may take longer to achieve the same level of whitening as a gel with a higher concentration.
Application Process
Applying whitening strips is straightforward. They are pre-cut and coated with the whitening solution. You simply peel the backing off and stick the strip onto your teeth. It takes only a couple of minutes to apply both upper and lower strips. This simplicity makes them a great option for those who are short on time or new to teeth whitening.
Gel application is a bit more involved. If using custom trays, you first need to clean and dry them. Then, you carefully dispense the gel into the trays, making sure to get an even amount in each tooth well. If using disposable trays, you have to fit them properly on your teeth before applying the gel. This process can take 5 – 10 minutes, depending on how carefully you need to work.
Comfort and Fit
Whitening strips can feel a bit strange in the mouth. They are thin but can still interfere with talking and smiling comfortably. Also, if they don’t adhere well, they can slide around, which is not only annoying but can also reduce their effectiveness.
Gels, especially when used with custom trays, offer a better fit. The trays are molded to the exact shape of your teeth, so the gel stays in place and doesn’t move around. This makes for a more comfortable experience overall. Disposable trays, though, may not fit as snugly and can cause the gel to leak onto the gums, increasing the risk of irritation.
Whitening Effectiveness
Both strips and gels can whiten teeth effectively, but the speed and extent of whitening vary. Strips are good at removing surface stains caused by coffee, tea, and smoking. With regular use over a couple of weeks, most people can expect to see a 2 – 3 shade improvement.
Gels, especially those with higher concentrations, can penetrate deeper into the tooth enamel. This makes them better for dealing with more stubborn stains, like those caused by certain medications or aging. They can often achieve a 3 – 5 shade improvement in the same time frame or even faster in some cases.
Side Effects and Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is a common concern with both. Since strips have lower concentrations of the bleaching agent, they tend to cause less sensitivity. However, if used too frequently or left on for too long, they can still make teeth feel tender.
Gels, particularly high-concentration ones, are more likely to cause sensitivity. The longer the gel stays in contact with the teeth, the more it can irritate the nerve endings inside the tooth. Gum irritation is also more common with gels, especially if the trays don’t fit well and the gel spills onto the gums.
Cost
Whitening strips are generally more affordable. A pack of strips can cost as little as $10 – $20, making them accessible to a wide range of budgets.
Gels, especially when bought as part of a custom tray kit, can be more expensive. Custom trays alone can cost upwards of $50, and then you need to factor in the price of the gel refills. Even over-the-counter gel kits without custom trays can be more costly than strips due to the higher concentration of the active ingredient.
Duration of Results
The longevity of results depends on your lifestyle and oral hygiene. Strips may need to be reapplied every few months to maintain the whitening effect. This is because new stains from food and drinks will gradually form over time.
Gels, especially professional ones, can offer longer-lasting results. With proper care, the whitening effect from a gel treatment can last 6 months to a year. But again, if you consume a lot of staining substances, the results will fade more quickly regardless of whether you used strips or gels.
Who Should Choose Which Option
If you have mild stains and want an easy, budget-friendly option with a lower risk of sensitivity, strips are a good choice. They are great for quick touch-ups and for those who are new to teeth whitening.
If you have more stubborn stains and are willing to spend more time and money on a treatment, gels are preferable.They are also a better option if you don’t mind a more involved application process and can tolerate a higher chance of sensitivity for potentially better results.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there is no clear-cut answer as to whether whitening gel or strips are better. It depends on your personal circumstances, including your budget, the severity of your stains, your tolerance for side effects, and how much time you’re willing to spend on the whitening process. Consulting with a dentist can help you make the best decision for your specific needs.
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How Much Are Whitening Treatments at the Dentist?
Why Won’t My Bottom Teeth Whiten?
Why Won’t My Teeth Get Whiter?
