Whitening Strips vs Custom Whitening Trays

A radiant white smile can boost your confidence and help you make a great impression. With so many teeth whitening options available, it can be hard to know where to start. Two popular choices are whitening strips and custom whitening trays — but how do they compare? Let’s break it down so you can make an informed decision.

Ease of Use

Whitening Strips:

• Pros: Widely available, simple to apply, and require no dental appointments. Just peel and stick them to your teeth.
• Cons: Placement can be tricky, and strips may shift, leading to uneven results. They often don’t cover the back teeth or lower molars.

Custom Whitening Trays:

• Pros: Made from impressions of your teeth, these trays fit snugly and comfortably. They ensure consistent contact with all surfaces of your teeth.
• Cons: Require a dental visit to have impressions made, and some initial adjustment to wearing the trays.

Verdict: If convenience is your top priority, strips win. But for better fit and coverage, trays are superior.

Effectiveness

Whitening Strips:

• Typically contain a lower concentration of peroxide than professional products.
• Ideal for mild surface stains.
• Results are visible after a few days but may plateau.

Custom Whitening Trays:

• Use stronger, dentist-dispensed whitening gel (carbamide or hydrogen peroxide).
• Penetrate deeper into enamel for more significant stain removal.
• Results can be noticeable after a few applications and are usually longer-lasting.

Verdict: Custom trays offer more powerful and lasting results, especially for deep or older stains.

Safety and Sensitivity

Whitening Strips:

• Can cause gum irritation if misapplied.
• Sensitivity is generally mild but may occur, especially with overuse.

Custom Whitening Trays:

• Gel is applied only within the tray, minimizing contact with gums.
• Dentists can adjust peroxide concentration based on your sensitivity level.
• Desensitizing gels can be provided if needed.

Verdict: Trays are safer and more comfortable for those with sensitive teeth or gums, thanks to professional oversight.

Cost

Whitening Strips:

• Affordable and available over the counter.
• Cost ranges from R300–R800 per box (in South Africa).

Custom Whitening Trays:

• Higher upfront cost due to dental consultation and tray fabrication.
• Usually priced between R2500–R7000, but the trays are reusable for years with refill gel.

Verdict: Strips are budget-friendly in the short term, while trays are a better long-term investment.

Maintenance & Longevity

Whitening Strips:

• Short-term results; repeat treatments are often needed every few months.

Custom Whitening Trays:

• Results can last 6–12 months or more with good oral hygiene.
• Easy to touch up periodically with refill gel.

Verdict: Trays offer more durable results and are ideal for long-term smile maintenance.

Final Thoughts: Which Should You Choose?

Choose Whitening Strips if:

• You’re looking for a quick, budget-friendly solution for occasional use.
• You have only minor surface stains.

Choose Custom Whitening Trays if:

• You want stronger, longer-lasting whitening with professional guidance.
• You’ve tried over-the-counter products with limited success.
• You’re preparing for a special event like a wedding, graduation, or photo shoot.

Want to Brighten Your Smile?

At our Sea Point dental practice, we offer custom teeth whitening trays tailored to your smile, lifestyle, and sensitivity level. Book a consultation today, and let’s get your teeth sparkling safely and effectively.

📞 Contact us to get started!