Which is Better: Whitening Strips vs Whitening Gel (2024)

FAQs

Which is Better: Whitening Strips vs Whitening Gel? ›

Whitening Gels Don't Cause Sensitivity

The fact of the matter is that both aid in the whitening of your teeth. The factors that affect this are the amount of whitening solution used and the amount of time it's sitting there. Whitening strips make use of bleach solutions that whiten the surface of your teeth, but gels allow for a more localized treatment.

Gel-based teeth bleaching gel is a safe and effective way to whiten your teeth and can provide dramatic results when used properly.

Though some lights can add a temporary boost that fades within a day or so, none ultimately make your teeth whiter than trays of bleach or whitening strips alone. Nor can they shorten the amount of time you have to spend with a mouth full of whitening chemicals to achieve your desired tooth shade.

The most effective treatment you can receive through your dentist is Zoom! laser teeth whitening treatment. While this procedure is not the cheapest fix for yellowing, it is the most effective, quickest, and long-lasting procedure. If you are looking for the best brightening solution, Zoom! is it!

Whitening Strips May Damage Your Enamel

That said, most strips available over the counter should be safe as long as they are ADA-approved. Of course, you can always talk to your dentist for a second opinion when in doubt. However, the problem arises when you use a whitening strip with chlorine dioxide.

Zoom-in-office whitening is the best teeth whitening system out there. It is fast (takes about an hour) and you get great results. This is the one you have probably seen before where the patients are under that blue light and it turns your teeth up to four shades of whiter.

Teeth whitening products — whether an over-the-counter option you use at home or a professional treatment — can be effective and safe, if used correctly. “If you want a brighter smile, teeth whitening products can be good tools,” says Dr. Clemons. “But they aren't a substitute for good dental hygiene.”

When not to use whitening strips? ›

One of the most effective ways to whiten teeth permanently is through professional teeth whitening procedures performed by a dentist. These treatments use potent bleaching agents that penetrate deep into the enamel, breaking down stains and discoloration.

Whitening strips are a popular dental product that may help remove stains from and whiten the teeth. While they are not as effective as treatments from a dentist's office, they can be a more simple and cheap alternative. However, people should take care to check the ingredients of the strips and apply them carefully.

Teeth whitening pens are a convenient and affordable way to brighten teeth, but their effects may not be as immediately noticeable or long-lasting as those of traditional strips. Applying strips takes more time and effort, but they often provide better results than pens.

While not permanent, teeth whitening that is professionally done can last for years. Over-the-counter products like whitening strips will usually last for around four months.