What Percentage of Hydrogen Peroxide Is Used for Teeth Whitening?
Teeth bleaching, often referred to as "whitening," is one of the most popular cosmetic services in North America. It’s no surprise—a bright smile can transform confidence in an instant. In North America, peroxide-based tooth-bleaching gels are widely used to lift stains and brighten smiles. Today, we’re diving in with Fern Whitening Supplies, a leader in teeth whitening products, to explore what gel percentages work best for at-home and chairside whitening.
Chairside Whitening
Chairside whitening procedures are performed by trained professionals, ensuring a safe and effective treatment.
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In Dental Offices: Providers typically use gels containing 16% to 37% hydrogen peroxide (HP) during chairside sessions.
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Outside Dental Offices: Professionals in cosmetic teeth whitening often use products with 16% to 25% HP to achieve impressive results.
So, what’s the difference?
While higher concentrations of hydrogen peroxide can dehydrate the tooth structure quickly—leading to a temporary “thirsty” look and an immediate brighter shade—they don’t always produce long-lasting results. This phenomenon, known as "false white," occurs because the bright shade fades after the tooth rehydrates and remineralizes.
What’s the best chairside option?
A blended gel containing both hydrogen peroxide (HP) and carbamide peroxide (CP) is often the best choice. This combination delivers:
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Instant whitening results.
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Extended working time.
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Continued stain removal over the next 24 hours, targeting deep intrinsic stains caused by diet and lifestyle factors.
At-Home Whitening
Take-home whitening products are designed for convenience but typically feature lower peroxide concentrations to ensure safety, especially since users don’t have the same gum protection as they would during professional treatments.
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Common At-Home Percentages: Gels with 3% to 14% HP are the most common for take-home use.
These products are applied in "low and slow" sessions, requiring consistent wear during the day or overnight for 5 to 7 days to achieve optimal results.
Pro Tip: For a professional-grade take-home option, try the Signature Series Collection from Fern Whitening Supplies. These gels provide lasting results with minimal to no sensitivity, giving your patients the confidence they deserve without discomfort.