Hydrogen Peroxide vs. Carbamide Peroxide – 20/20 Dentistry (2024)

Hydrogen Peroxide vs. Carbamide Peroxide – 20/20 Dentistry (1)

The teeth whitening process includes two active ingredients: hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide. Whitening products differ between which active ingredient they contain as the main whitening solution. This poses the question: what’s the difference? The main difference between hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide is that hydrogen peroxide is an effective whitening agent by itself. On the other hand, carbamide peroxide contains hydrogen peroxide in it. For every 30% of carbamide peroxide, there is also 10% of hydrogen peroxide.

The good news is, one doesn’t work better than the other. A journal published by American Dental Association showed that while carbamide peroxide shows slightly more dramatic results at first, products containing both ingredients produce exactly the same results. Hydrogen peroxide breaks down faster than carbamide peroxide and releases most of its whitening agent within 30-60 minutes. Carbamide peroxide releases about 50% of its whitening agent in the first two hours and it remains active for up to six additional hours. This means, products using hydrogen peroxide has shorter wear time but both active ingredients have similar whitening properties. The amount of product used and the time it will take to fully activate applies to each patient’s unique needs.

As far as sensibility goes, there is no noticeable difference. Tooth sensitivity comes naturally with teeth whitening, but both active ingredients produce the same level of sensibility. Rebound is when the teeth appear lighter immediately after whitening, but then lose brightness over a short period of time. Rebound deals more with dehydration than peroxide levels and can be prevented by adding more water to the product. Products with carbamide peroxide have a slightly longer shelf life than those with hydrogen peroxide, but refrigerating peroxide products increases shelf life all-together.

Overall, both hydrogen peroxide and carbamide produce excellent results. You should feel comfortable about using either product to whiten your smile. For questions about whitening, feel free to call us at 215-567-4949.

Hydrogen Peroxide vs. Carbamide Peroxide – 20/20 Dentistry (2024)

FAQs

Is hydrogen peroxide more effective than carbamide peroxide? ›

Although both achieve the same end result clinical treatments composed of Hydrogen Peroxide achieve better results in the beginning and Carbamide treatments are more suitable for maintaining whiteness.

What percentage of carbamide peroxide do dentists use? ›

Today, most dentists use hydrogen and carbamide peroxide gels between 10-40%, which are chemically activated or by different light sources, such as halogen light, laser or plasma arc [9], See (Table ​1).

Is 35% carbamide peroxide equivalent to hydrogen peroxide? ›

Myth 3 – All whitening Gel is the same

Carbamide Peroxide concentrations contains roughly 1/3 of the active ingredient, Hydrogen Peroxide. As an example, 35% Carbamide Peroxide is roughly equal to 12% Hydrogen Peroxide.

What percentage of peroxide is best for teeth whitening? ›

Tooth whitening is most often done using peroxide-based bleaching agents. At-home systems contain from 3% to 20% peroxide (carbamide or hydrogen peroxides). In-office systems contain from 15% to 43% peroxide. Generally, the stronger the solution and the longer you keep it on your teeth, the whiter your teeth become.

Is carbamide or hydrogen peroxide better for teeth whitening? ›

The good news is, one doesn't work better than the other. A journal published by American Dental Association showed that while carbamide peroxide shows slightly more dramatic results at first, products containing both ingredients produce exactly the same results.

Why is carbamide peroxide better than hydrogen peroxide? ›

Some dentists prefer hydrogen peroxide because it is faster and more effective, while others prefer carbamide peroxide because it is safer and less damaging to the enamel. However, both agents have similar whitening properties and can cause tooth sensitivity and rebound.

How long to leave 20% carbamide peroxide on teeth? ›

Brush teeth before inserting tray. Lightly tap tray to adapt tray sides to teeth. Wear Opalescence 20% for 2 to 4 hours.

Is 22% carbamide peroxide safe? ›

Teeth whitening with 22% carbamide peroxide is generally safe, but some individuals may experience minor side effects, such as: Tooth Sensitivity: Sensitivity is the most common side effect. Some people may experience temporary discomfort, particularly when consuming hot or cold foods and beverages.

What is the strongest teeth whitening gel percentage? ›

The maximum that can be used is 35 percent, which is approximately what you will find at the dentist's office. A 35 percent concentration comes with a set of complications, making it possible for you to leave it on your teeth for only a certain period, which in most cases is about 30 to 45 minutes.

Is 35% carbamide peroxide too strong? ›

35% is a high percentage of peroxide and one use can damage your gums, cause extreme sensitivity and can disrupt your GI if ingested. This is significantly worsened if you use it for more than 30 minutes in 1 session.

Is 35% carbamide peroxide legal? ›

The regulations permit preparations containing hydrogen peroxide, and other compounds or mixtures that release hydrogen peroxide (including carbamide peroxide and zinc peroxide), to be used for tooth whitening, with the maximum effective concentration of hydrogen peroxide allowed under the law being 6%.

Which is better for sensitive teeth, hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide? ›

Therefore, reduced tooth sensitivity can be expected using carbamide peroxide since lower concentration of hydrogen peroxide is available. Among the products available on the market, carbamide peroxide-based whiteners with concentrations as high as 35% have been indicated for at-home bleaching procedures 7 .

Is 20% hydrogen peroxide safe for teeth whitening? ›

The American Dental Association gives a thumbs up to whiteners with up to 10% peroxide concentrations. Any higher than 10%, and you're at-risk for destroying your precious enamel.

What level of peroxide do dentists use? ›

Tooth whitening products containing or releasing between 0.1% and 6% hydrogen peroxide can ONLY be sold to dental practitioners; For each cycle of use, the first use can ONLY be carried out by dental practitioners or under their direct supervision, if an equivalent level of safety is ensured. whitening.

What strength peroxide do dentists use? ›

The legal limit for a dentist to use is between 0.1% and 6% hydrogen peroxide. These higher percentage products used by a dental professional will produce a safe, effective and long-lasting tooth lightening result.

What is the strongest peroxide for cleaning? ›

90 percent. This is the most potent strength of hydrogen peroxide. It only contains 10% water, and the rest is peroxide in its pure form. These types of peroxide cleaners are used in industrial settings to get rid of tough grease stains in places like hotel kitchens.

When should you not use carbamide peroxide? ›

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
  1. dizziness.
  2. ear discharge.
  3. ear pain, irritation or rash.
  4. infection.
  5. perforated eardrum (hole in eardrum)
  6. an unusual or allergic reaction to carbamide peroxide, glycerin, hydrogen peroxide, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives.
  7. pregnant or trying to get pregnant.

What are the disadvantages of carbamide peroxide? ›

Carbamide peroxide is commonly used in teeth-whitening kits. These kits are sold for home use or used in dental offices. Home users should follow product directions closely to avoid any irritation of tissues that carbamide peroxide might cause. Tooth sensitivity and gum irritation are both common side effects.

Is 6% hydrogen peroxide safe for teeth whitening? ›

Choose the right concentration: A low concentration of Hydrogen Peroxide (around 3% to 6%) is safe to use for teeth whitening usually without any side effects. Hydrogen Peroxide can produce certain side effects like gum or tooth sensitivity if used often in high concentration.

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