Whitening of teeth is the most common cosmetic dental procedure applied by many people today in trying to achieve that brighter smile. The two most popular at-home teeth whitening solutions include whitening strips and whitening gels. While both are designed to help you get whiter teeth, which one is going to be your better choice?
The following article highlights the differences between these whitening strips and gels to decide which is suitable for your teeth.
So, let's get started.
Whitening strips are thin, elastic strips of plastic draped with a coating of whitening agent. They are pressed against the teeth and left on for a certain length of time: anywhere from 20-30 minutes, depending upon the brand.
Whitening strips work by placing the peroxide directly on the surface of your teeth. The chemicals in the peroxide break down stains on the teeth and thereby whiten them. The ease of use and fitting snugly on the teeth make the strips a convenient option for home whitening.
· Ease of use: Whitening strips are easy to use and require no preparation. You simply peel them off the backing before applying them to your teeth.
· Convenient: Because they are pre-coated with the whitening agent, there is no mess.
· Affordable: Whitening strips are widely available and most of the time cheaper compared to professional treatments.
The whitening gel is a thicker substance that can be painted onto the teeth with a small brush or applied within a mouth tray. Like strips, the gel contains a whitening ingredient such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide.
The whitening gel is applied to the teeth directly, most often with a custom or over-the-counter mouth tray. This gel adheres to the surface of the teeth and, through the process of peroxide penetration in that enamel, demineralizes those stains therein. The maximum wear time for the gel can be different depending on the strengths of the formula and according to brand instructions.
· More control: Unlike the tray, you can control where the product is being applied with whitening gels to ensure an even application.
· Stronger formulas: Gels tend to be stronger in whitening agent concentration, hence accelerating the whitening process.
· Customizable: Many gel products are available with customized trays that are designed to fit your teeth so that whitening gels touch every nook and corner of your teeth.
Whitening strip solutions and gels are two effective at-home methods for brightening; however, they do differ in some ways.
Whitening strips are designed to be 'ready for use' because they are pre-coated with a whitening agent. You simply press the strip onto your teeth and leave it on for the recommended period of time. Whitening gel requires a bit more preparation. You'll need to use a mouth tray or brush to apply the gel to your teeth.
Whitening gels are generally much stronger, for their peroxide concentration is higher. You will probably see better results from gels faster, but this again makes them more likely to cause tooth sensitivity.
Strip whitening is usually cheaper and more accessible at most pharmacies. Gels with the use of custom trays may be a bit more expensive, but this could result in a more personalized whitening experience.
Some people may find whitening strips more comfortable because they can be thin or flexible. Gels, especially when combined with trays, can be bulkier inside the mouth, which could be uncomfortable for some users.
Another variable that could affect the choice between whitening strips and gel is personal preference or results you may want to achieve.
● If you want convenience: Whitening strips are quick and easy to use, making them a good option if you're looking for a no-fuss whitening method.
● If you need faster results: Whitening gels are much more potent in action, which guarantees more visible results in the shortest time.
● If you have sensitive teeth: Clearly psychologically, the most sensitive teeth may desire to start with the whitening strip, which tends to use lower concentrations of peroxide and, therefore is gentler on your teeth.
● If you want more control: With whitening gels, you apply the product exactly where you need to, allowing for an even whitening process.
Whitening strips and gel are great alternatives for at-home teeth whitening. Whitening strips take an envious lead when it comes to convenience and affordability, while the gels back their strengths with more control and strong results. It depends on your needs whether you want it easy or customized. Knowing the pros and cons of each alternative will really help in choosing the best option to whiten the teeth and prepare a wonderful smile.
