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16% Hydrogen Peroxide Whitening Gel — Professional Guide

16% Hydrogen Peroxide Whitening Gel — Professional Guide

Clinically reviewed by David Hanna, RDH — Registered Dental Hygienist

 

Gentle, predictable shade lift for light stains and sensitivity-prone clients. Includes indications, chairside protocol, mitigation plan, and how to upgrade when needed.

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Clinical indications & contraindications

Indications

  • Light extrinsic staining (coffee, tea, wine) with sensitivity concerns
  • First-time whitening or patients anxious about intensity
  • Polish/refresh for previously whitened patients

Contraindications & cautions

  • Active pathology (caries/periodontal issues) — treat before whitening
  • Large restorations in the esthetic zone; discuss shade match expectations

Mechanism of action

16% HP provides controlled diffusion through enamel and dentin with a lower sensitivity profile, making it a quality entry point to chairside whitening.

Step-by-step protocol (16% HP)

1) Preparation

  • Baseline shade & photos; prophy as needed
  • Retractors; dry field

2) Isolation

  • Cotton rolls; barrier if gel proximity to gingiva

3) Application

  • 1–2 mm even layer; fresh ribbon per cycle
  • LED optional

4) Timing

  • 2 cycles × 15–20 minutes; agitate mid-cycle

5) Finish

  • Rinse thoroughly; consider desensitizer

6) Aftercare

  • 24–48 hr white diet; suggest CP pen and purple toothpaste

Sensitivity risk & mitigation

Risk factors

  • Exposed dentin; aggressive brushing
  • History of sensitivity to prior whitening

Mitigation

  • Shorter cycles (12–15 min) for nervous clients
  • Desensitizer; cool/neutral drinks; analgesic per clinic policy

Case scenarios

Light stains

2 × 15–20 min. If lift plateaus, schedule recall with 25% HP.

Post-whitening refresh

Single appointment, 2 cycles; maintain with CP pen.

Troubleshooting & common pitfalls

  • Uneven lift: Improve dryness and gel uniformity; agitate mid-cycle.
  • Transient sensitivity: Shorten cycles; add desensitizer; reinforce aftercare.

Storage, handling & compliance

Storage

  • Cool, dry; avoid heat/sun; check expiry

Compliance

  • Professional use per local regulations
  • Consent and documentation recommended

Pricing, packaging & positioning

Positioning

“Gentle professional whitening” — ideal for lighter stains and sensitive clients.

Packaging ideas

  • Comfort Package: 16% HP + desensitizer + aftercare card
  • Refresh Kit: 16% HP + CP Pen
Order 16% HPCompare All Strengths

Compare 16% HP to other strengths

Strength Best For Typical Cycles Notes
12% PAP+ Peroxide-free; maintenance 1 × 15–20 min Gentle lift
16% HP Light stains / sensitivity 2 × 15–20 min Gentle entry point
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 — 16% HP

  • How many cycles? Typically 2 × 15–20 minutes.
  • Who’s ideal? Light stains, first-timers, sensitivity histories.
  • LED required? No — optional.
  • When to step up? If lift is limited, move to 25% HP.
  • Maintenance? CP pen + 24–48 hr white diet.
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