Teeth Bleaching Gels Explained

5 minute read

Teeth Bleaching Gels Explained

A go to method for whitening discoloured or yellow teeth in recent years has been using at-home professional teeth bleaching gels.

These teeth whitening treatments are popular for a range of reasons, including the fact that they are dentist-led to provide safe and fast results.

This is treatment uses high strength teeth bleaching gel in a custom fit whitening tray. With this combination you will get professional whitening plus the guidance of a dentist to ensure you get the best possible result. Take the treatment home to complete and top up at your convenience.

Smile White’s bleaching gel is 16% carbamide peroxide.

16% carbamide peroxide is 32x more powerful than non-prescription over the counter teeth bleaching kits. This helps you get a brighter smile from the comfort of your own home, safely and effectively, with a prescription strength treatment that is led by dentists.

What is Carbamide Peroxide?

Carbamide peroxide is a combination of hydrogen peroxide and urea and at different concentrations, has multiple uses including:

  • Over the counter whitening kits (0.5%)
  • Ear wax removal (6.5%)
  • Oral rinse (10%)
  • Prescription teeth-whitening products (16–44%).

Carbamide peroxide releases hydrogen peroxide when it comes into contact with the surfaces of the tooth, acting as a bleaching agent that lifts stains and whitens the enamel. Too high of a concentration can damage your teeth, which is why it is safe and important to follow treatment from a dentist professional.

Is 16% Carbamide Peroxide Safe for Teeth?

A 2013 clinical study on the effectiveness and safety of 16% and 35% carbamide peroxide for tooth whitening found that “carbamide peroxide in 16% is safe and effective for whitening discoloured teeth”. It is offered out by dentists across the UK due to it being a safe and effective method of at home teeth whitening.

If you want the highest safe concentration of bleaching gels, you need to have a prescription and treatment from a qualified dentist.

What Do The Different Carbamide Peroxide Concentrations Mean?

Carbamide peroxide is a combination of hydrogen peroxide and urea. When it comes to teeth whitening, a higher percentage of carbamide peroxide puts you at higher risk of sensitivity issues so finding a balance between strength and comfort is key.

When you visit a dentist office, the whitening gel that they use can reach up to 44% concentration. At this concentration, the gel isn’t used for a long time. We have found that 16% offers the best whitening with the least potential for pain.

At this concentration you’re completely safe and able to continue your treatment at home without direct dental supervision.

How Long Should I Wear The Whitening Gel For?

16% carbamide peroxide gel is designed to be worn comfortably for at least 4 hours to achieve noticeable teeth whitening results.

For the most dazzling results, you’ll need to keep the trays in overnight, so you can whiten as you sleep.

We recommend wearing the 16% carbamide peroxide gel for 6 hours or more at night if you don't experience major sensitivity when you first apply the gel.

Potential Side Effects

You should follow product directions exactly to avoid any irritation or sensitivity that carbamide peroxide might cause. Tooth sensitivity and gum irritation are both common side effects.

Anyone who chooses to use a home teeth-whitening kit should first consult with a dental healthcare provider.

For the reasons above, all our kits containing 16% carbamide peroxide whitening gel are supplied by a dental professional so as long as you use your teeth whitening kit as instructed, you shouldn’t experience any issues.

Can I Whiten My Teeth For 3 Days in a Row?

We don’t typically recommend that you use whitening trays for multiple days in a row as it can increase risk of sensitivity. You should aim to use your whitening trays 2-3 times a week until you get your desired level of teeth whitening.

Remember, you can reuse your whitening trays over time to top up your smile!

Things to Consider With 16% Carbamide Peroxide Gel:

  • Do not eat, drink or smoke during treatment (when you have your trays and bleaching gel in your mouth).
  • You should avoid staining foods & drinks for at least 48 hours after the treatment period.
  • Use gel at room temperature.

Book Your FREE Consultation!

Unlocking a radiant smile isn't just about the gel – it's a holistic process. Consider best practices during treatment, ensuring you get the best out of your kit.

Buy an at-home teeth whitening kit, and enjoy your consultation with a Smile White approved dentist in your local area. They will talk you through your treatment, give you all the information you need and ensure you are fit for treatment.

Ready to transform your smile? Get our 16% carbamide peroxide teeth whitening kit and unveil a brighter, more confident you.

Start your journey