Whitening strips and professional whitening share the goal of a brighter smile but do so in different ways. The most apparent difference is where you receive treatment — at home or in the dentist’s chair.
At-home whitening strips
Strips use a thin layer of peroxide gel on flexible plastic. They’re inexpensive and convenient, but contain less peroxide, so results take two to three weeks and can be uneven, with a higher risk of sensitivity and gum irritation.
Professional Zoom whitening
Zoom in-office whitening uses a 25% hydrogen peroxide gel activated by a special light. A 45-minute-to-an-hour session can brighten teeth up to eight shades, with results lasting six months to a year and a lower risk of irritation.
Because only certified dentists can apply higher-strength gel, professional whitening needs fewer visits to reach your goal shade.