Whitening Strips vs Whitening Serum: Which One is Better?

When it comes to achieving a bright smile, there are numerous teeth whitening options available. Two popular choices are whitening strips and whitening serums. Both are effective, but they work in different ways. This blog will break down the differences between whitening strips and whitening serum to help you decide which is best for you.

What Are Whitening Strips?

Whitening strips are thin, flexible pieces coated with whitening agents that you apply directly to your teeth. They are designed to fit the shape of your teeth and can be used at home as part of a home teeth whitening routine.

How Do Whitening Strips Work?

The active ingredients in whitening strips typically include hydrogen peroxide, carbamide peroxide, or PAP, which help remove surface stains and whiten your teeth. PAP is renowned for its safety profile, providing effective whitening without causing sensitivity or harm to the enamel. The whitening agent works over a set amount of time, usually between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the product. This makes whitening strips an efficient option for those seeking a quick and gentle whitening treatment.

What Is Whitening Serum?

Whitening serum, often applied with a whitening pen, offers another form of home teeth whitening. The serum is typically applied directly onto the teeth and left to work its magic. Like strips, serums also contain whitening agent to help remove stains and whiten your teeth.

How Does Whitening Serum Work?

The whitening ingredient in whitening serum usually consists of teeth whitening gel, which is applied using a brush or pen-like applicator. This allows for targeted application, ensuring that every tooth is covered. Whitening serum usually requires less time to apply and can be left on the teeth for longer periods, depending on the formula.

Which One Is Better?

Both whitening strips and whitening serums are highly effective in producing a whiter, brighter smile. However, each has its pros and cons depending on your preferences and lifestyle.

Convenience

If you're looking for a teeth whitening treatment that is easy to apply, whitening strips might be the better option. They are quick to use, fit well to the shape of your teeth, and are available in various strengths depending on how much whitening you need. On the other hand, whitening serum allows for more precision. A whitening pen is perfect for targeting specific areas of your teeth. If you have sensitive gums or wish to whiten specific teeth, serum gives you more control over the application.

Effectiveness

Both products use whitening agents to remove surface stains, but the method of delivery can impact their effectiveness. Whitening strips cover more surface area, ensuring the front and back of your teeth are equally treated. Meanwhile, whitening serum provides more targeted application but may not be as comprehensive. However, the results can be comparable to strips, especially when used with consistency over time.

Duration of Results

The amount of time it takes to see results can vary. Typically, gels and whitening strips will show results within a week of consistent use, while serums can take slightly longer but offer more precise whitening.

Other Teeth Whitening Methods

While both whitening strips and whitening serum are popular, there are other products worth considering for a brighter smile. Whitening toothpastes, teeth whitening pens, and even professional treatments can be used depending on your needs and budget. For those who prefer to whiten their teeth at home, it’s essential to choose products that contain proven active ingredients like PAP. Whether you go for whitening strips, serums, or another method, the key is consistency and choosing the right product for your teeth type. It’s also important to remember that moderation is key when it comes to whitening treatments. Overuse can lead to sensitivity or damage, so it's best to follow the product instructions carefully and give your teeth a break between treatments.

We Can Help

When it comes to teeth whitening serum vs whitening strips, both are excellent options depending on your preferences. For convenience and all-around coverage, whitening strips are a great option. Oxford White's whitening strips utilise PAP (phthalimidoperoxycaproic acid), a safe and effective alternative to hydrogen peroxide, ensuring gentle yet powerful whitening without causing sensitivity. However, for more precision and targeted whitening, whitening serum might be the way to go.

Oxford White offers both whitening strips and whitening serum, giving you the flexibility to choose the best solution for your smile. Whether you're looking to whiten your teeth quickly or prefer a more controlled application, there's an option for everyone.

For more information about the effectiveness of whitening strips, we recommend reading our blog post “Can Teeth Whitening Strips Really Whiten Teeth?”. It provides a detailed look into how these strips work, their benefits, and whether they can truly deliver the bright smile you're after.