When it comes to achieving a brighter, whiter smile, two of the most common at-home teeth-whitening options are Crest Whitening Strips and whitening gels. Both promise a noticeable improvement in the shade of your teeth, but the question remains: which one actually works better? In this article, we'll compare both options in detail, covering their effectiveness, ease of use, cost, and potential side effects, so you can decide which one is the best fit for your teeth-whitening needs.
Crest Whitening Strips are thin, flexible strips coated with a whitening gel that typically contains hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide the active ingredients responsible for bleaching teeth. The strips are designed to be applied directly to the surface of your teeth for a specific amount of time, usually 30 minutes to an hour.
These strips are considered a convenient solution for those looking for a quick whitening fix, as you can simply apply them while doing other tasks. Over the course of a week or two, with daily use, you may begin to notice your teeth becoming visibly whiter.
Whitening gel, on the other hand, is a bit more versatile. Available in various forms, including brush-on gels or gels that are used with custom whitening trays, these products contain the same active ingredients hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide but they work a bit differently than the strips.
In many cases, whitening gels require more involved application, usually with a tray that fits over your teeth. The gel sits in the tray for a period of time, generally 15 minutes to an hour. Some people also choose to apply the gel directly to their teeth using a brush.
While this method may seem less convenient than using strips, it has the potential to be more customizable, especially when using custom-fit trays.
When it comes to whitening effectiveness, both Crest Whitening Strips and whitening gels are backed by strong bleaching agents that are capable of breaking down stains caused by coffee, wine, tobacco, and other common staining foods. However, the degree of effectiveness can vary based on the product you're using and your specific needs.
Crest Whitening Strips are designed to provide a quick fix. Most users see visible results in as little as 3 to 7 days of use, depending on the product and the level of staining. The strips are great for light to moderate stains and offer consistent whitening with minimal effort. However, if your teeth have significant, deep stains, the whitening may be less dramatic compared to professional treatments or the use of whitening gel with custom trays.
Whitening gels, especially those used with custom trays, can offer a deeper whitening because they can stay in contact with your teeth longer and may be applied more intensively. Custom trays allow the gel to stay evenly distributed over the teeth for a more thorough whitening experience. For people with deep stains, whitening gels might be a more effective solution, as they can tackle stains that have been on your teeth for years.
The ease of use is one area where Crest Whitening Strips generally have the upper hand. These strips are quick, simple, and easy to apply. They require no special tools or accessories, and you don’t have to worry about custom-fitting trays. Simply apply the strips to your teeth and leave them on for the recommended time, and you’re done! It’s a low-effort solution for those with busy lifestyles.
In contrast, whitening gels, especially those used with trays, can be a little more involved. While the gel itself is easy to apply, the use of trays requires a little more preparation. If you’re using pre-formed trays, you simply fill them with the gel and wear them for the recommended time. However, if you opt for custom trays (which can be molded to fit your mouth), the process requires a trip to the dentist, and it may take some time to get them made.
Additionally, applying whitening gel directly to your teeth can be a messy process that requires precision. Improper application could lead to uneven whitening or the gel spreading onto your gums.
Cost is always a big factor when deciding between different teeth-whitening options. Crest Whitening Strips tend to be more affordable than whitening gel, especially considering that the strips often come in multiple-treatment packs, providing enough material for a couple of weeks of use.