FAQs
But when it comes down to it, all you need to know is that they both whiten your teeth, just in different ways. Hydrogen peroxide is more commonly used for day whitening, while carbamide peroxide is used for night whitening. And you can choose which you would prefer when ordering your teeth whitening kits.
Which is better for teeth whitening, carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide? ›
The good news is, one doesn't work better than the other. A journal published by American Dental Association showed that while carbamide peroxide shows slightly more dramatic results at first, products containing both ingredients produce exactly the same results.
Is 20% hydrogen peroxide safe for teeth whitening? ›
Like many chemicals, hydrogen peroxide is only safe in small doses. While hydrogen peroxide is generally recognized as safe for whitening, the key lies in using it in appropriate concentrations. Anything stronger than a 3% concentration is dangerous, and many whitening products dilute the solution even further.
Why might carbamide peroxide be used in dentistry? ›
Hydrogen and carbamide peroxides are secure options for bleaching vital teeth, maintaining the substrates healthy. It is very important that dentists possess the necessary knowledge of these substrates and also the management of the peroxides.
What strength peroxide do dentists use? ›
The concentration of hydrogen peroxide in store-bought teeth whitening kits can be as high as 10%. Dentists may also offer whitening treatments with hydrogen peroxide concentrations of up to 40%. On the other hand, most store-bought hydrogen peroxide has a 3% concentration.
What are the disadvantages of carbamide peroxide? ›
Carbamide peroxide is commonly used in teeth-whitening kits. These kits are sold for home use or used in dental offices. Home users should follow product directions closely to avoid any irritation of tissues that carbamide peroxide might cause. Tooth sensitivity and gum irritation are both common side effects.
When should you not use carbamide peroxide? ›
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
- dizziness.
- ear discharge.
- ear pain, irritation or rash.
- infection.
- perforated eardrum (hole in eardrum)
- an unusual or allergic reaction to carbamide peroxide, glycerin, hydrogen peroxide, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives.
- pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
How long do you leave 20 peroxide on your teeth? ›
Lightly tap tray to adapt tray sides to teeth. Wear Opalescence 20% for 2 to 4 hours.
What is the highest percentage of hydrogen peroxide for teeth whitening? ›
Tooth whitening is most often done using peroxide-based bleaching agents. At-home systems contain from 3% to 20% peroxide (carbamide or hydrogen peroxides). In-office systems contain from 15% to 43% peroxide. Generally, the stronger the solution and the longer you keep it on your teeth, the whiter your teeth become.
What is the best hydrogen peroxide concentration for teeth whitening? ›
This suggests that low-concentration treatments of hydrogen peroxide, applied for shorter periods, have the least potential to damage your teeth. According to a 2004 study, scientists found that a 5 percent hydrogen peroxide solution was just as effective as a 25 percent solution at whitening teeth.
After the wearing *me has finished, remove the tray and rinse or wipe your teeth with lukewarm water. Wash your trays (a co%on bud is useful in removing excess whitening gel) and leave to dry in the box provided, ready for next *me. Excess gel left on teeth can also be brushed away with a toothbrush.
What chemical do dentists use to whiten teeth? ›
Reducing intrinsic stains involves a chemical reaction that changes the color of the tooth. The most common ingredients used in bleaching are carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide, which are used at different concentrations depending on the products or regimens used.
How long does carbamide peroxide take to whiten teeth? ›
The gel releases a very mild carbamide peroxide which gently, safely and reliably whitens your teeth. The initial course of whitening usually takes 10-14 days to achieve the brightness you desire and then the trays can be used occasionally for top ups, say, every few months.
Is hydrogen peroxide better than carbamide peroxide? ›
Hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide produced equally brilliant results. However there is a noticeable difference in sensitivity when using a hydrogen peroxide compared to carbamide peroxide product.
What percentage of carbamide peroxide is best for teeth whitening? ›
Conclusion: Carbamide peroxide in 16% and 35% concentration are effective and safe for bleaching discoloured vital teeth, however, 35% concentration gave significantly more lightening effect without additional side effects compared to 16% concentration.
What is the highest level of teeth whitening? ›
There's no definitive answer to this question as it largely depends on individual factors. However, most dentists use a shade guide to determine the level of whiteness that can be achieved. This guide has 16 shades, with the whitest shade not being pure white, but rather a light shade of grey.
What is the best whitening gel for teeth? ›
The Crest Whitening Emulsion with LED Light stands out as the best overall teeth whitening product due to its ease of use, effectiveness, and comfort. Its simple, straightforward process, coupled with the ability to carry on with normal activities during treatment, makes it highly convenient and user-friendly.
What is the best method to whiten teeth? ›
In-office bleaching provides the quickest way to whiten teeth. With in-office bleaching, the whitening product is applied directly to the teeth. These products can be used in combination with heat, a special light, or a laser. Results are seen in only one, 30- to 60-minute treatment.