12% PAP+ Peroxide-Free Whitening Gel — Professional Guide
12% PAP+ Peroxide-Free Whitening Gel — Professional Guide
Clinically reviewed by David Hanna, RDH — Registered Dental Hygienist
Peroxide-free whitening for sensitivity-prone clients and maintenance programs. This guide covers indications, step-by-step protocol, sensitivity management, and when to move up to hydrogen peroxide strengths.
Clinical indications & contraindications
Indications
- Clients with sensitivity history or peroxide aversion
- Mild extrinsic staining and mid-cycle maintenance between HP sessions
- Intro whitening for first-time patients; cosmetic studio add-on
Contraindications & cautions
- Active caries, cracks, or open lesions; defer until resolved
- Extensive restorative work in the esthetic zone (enamel only responds)
- Unrealistic expectations for single-visit shade jumps; set clear goals
Mechanism of action (peroxide-free)
PAP+ (phthalimidoperoxycaproic acid) whitens via a non-peroxide oxidative pathway with adjunctive enamel-friendly ingredients. While lift is gentler than HP, the sensitivity profile is favorable, making PAP+ ideal for cautious starts and maintenance.
Step-by-step protocol (12% PAP+)
1) Preparation
- Baseline shade & photos; dry field with retractors/cotton
- Prophy as needed to remove pellicle
2) Isolation
- Barrier optional; required if gel proximity to gingiva is likely
3) Application
- Apply 1–2 mm even layer; avoid soft tissue
- LED optional for comfort/workflow
4) Timing
- 1 cycle × 15–20 minutes; agitate lightly if needed
5) Finish
- Suction, rinse thoroughly; review shade change
6) Aftercare
- 24–48 hr white diet
- Suggest 44% CP Pen and Purple Toothpaste
Sensitivity risk & mitigation
Risk factors
- Exposed dentin/cervical lesions
- Recent aggressive whitening or abrasives
Mitigation
- Shorter session length; careful isolation
- Post-op desensitizer; cool/neutral drinks
Case scenarios
Mild coffee/wine stains
Single 15–20 min cycle; reinforce aftercare. Consider 16% HP next visit if patient wants faster lift.
Maintenance between HP sessions
Use PAP+ at mid-year; daily CP pen for retention.
Troubleshooting & common pitfalls
Storage, handling & compliance
Storage
- Cool, dry place; follow labeling
- Rotate stock (FIFO); check expiry
Compliance
- Use by trained professionals; follow local regulations
- Consent and documentation recommended
Pricing, packaging & positioning
Positioning
“Peroxide-free, low-sensitivity whitening” — ideal for cautious starters and maintenance.
Packaging ideas
- Gentle Start: PAP+ + aftercare card
- Maintenance Kit: PAP+ + CP Pen + Purple Toothpaste
Compare PAP+ to HP strengths
| Strength | Best For | Typical Cycles | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12% PAP+ | Sensitivity-prone / maintenance | 1 × 15–20 min | Peroxide-free; gentle lift |
| 16% HP | Light stains; gentle in-office | 2 × 15–20 min | Lower sensitivity profile |
| 25% HP | Most routine cases | 2–3 × 15–20 min | Balanced power/comfort |
| 35–44% HP | Moderate to severe stains | 1–3 × 15–20 min | Barrier; strict isolation |
FAQ — 12% PAP+
- How much shade change should I expect? Gentle lift; best for mild stains and maintenance.
- Is LED required? No, optional for comfort/workflow.
- When should I move to HP? If lift plateaus or patient wants faster results, consider 16% HP or 25% HP.
- Does PAP+ whiten restorations? No—enamel only.
- Maintenance frequency? Every 3–6 months; daily CP pen helps retain shade.
