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HP vs CP vs PAP+: Professional Whitening Gels Compared (Indications & Chair Flow)

Professional Whitening Guide

HP vs CP vs PAP+: Indications & Chair Flow

Compare chemistries, pick strengths, plan isolation and light settings, and set maintenance for lasting results.

Executive summary: when to choose HP, CP, or PAP+

HP (Hydrogen Peroxide) — fastest chairside lift. Choose strength by tolerance and stain: 16%, 25%, 35%, 38%, 44%.

CP (Carbamide Peroxide) — slower release; great for spot touch-ups & compliant at-home plans via 44% CP Pen.

PAP+ — peroxide-free; comfort-forward for sensitivity-prone clients: 12% PAP+.

Combine a single in-office HP visit for immediate lift with CP or PAP+ for maintenance.

HP — Hydrogen Peroxide

Speed: Fastest in-office change.

Sensitivity: Strength-dependent (start gentler).

Best for: Chairside lift with LED/laser.

Strengths: 16%, 25%, 35%, 38%, 44%

CP — Carbamide Peroxide

Speed: Slower, user-paced.

Sensitivity: Moderate; targeted areas.

Best for: At-home maintenance / spot fixes.

Format: 44% CP Pen

PAP+ — Peroxide-Free

Speed: Gentle cosmetic brightening.

Sensitivity: Lowest; comfort-forward.

Best for: Sensitive clients or cautious plans.

Strength: 12% PAP+

Clinical indications by chemistry & strength

Hydrogen Peroxide (match to case)

  • 16% HP — first-time / sensitivity-prone. View 16%
  • 25% HP — clinic standard. View 25%
  • 35% HP — high-impact single visit. View 35%
  • 38% HP — tougher discoloration. View 38%
  • 44% HP — severe/intrinsic; expert handling. View 44%

Carbamide Peroxide

PAP+ (peroxide-free)

For quick side-by-side differences, see the HP Gels Hub in the Resource Center.

Pre-Tx & Isolation

  • Shade baseline, photos, sensitivity history.
  • Gingival barrier + HVE for ≥35% HP; dry field; clean margins.

Placement & Timing

  • Apply even 1–2 mm layer; avoid soft tissue; agitate mid-cycle.
  • 15–20 min per cycle; 1–3 cycles per severity & tolerance.

Sensitivity management (Pre-Tx, Intra-Op, Post-Care)

  • Pre-Tx: start gentler (e.g., 16% HP or 12% PAP+).
  • Intra-Op: verify barrier integrity; tune cycle length to comfort/IFU.
  • Post-Care: 24–48 hr neutral diet; CP/PAP+ for maintenance.

LED/Laser parameters

Use lamp IFU for exposure time, distance, and cycles.

  • HP: quicker response; strength-based cycles.
  • PAP+: gentle pacing; LED improves workflow consistency.
  • CP: reserve for at-home or spot scenarios.

Storage & QA

  • Cool storage; refrigerate if label specifies.
  • Record batch/lot per client for traceability.
  • Clinic-ready syringes (e.g., 5 mL) streamline setup.

Follow all IFU and local regulations. Professional application only.

Quick FAQs

PAP+ for first-timers? Yes—comfort-forward. For faster lift consider 25% HP or 35% HP.

Step up from 25%? Heavier discoloration → 35% or 38%.

When 44%? Severe/intrinsic with strict isolation & expert handling: 44% HP.

Where does CP fit? Targeted touch-ups & maintenance: 44% CP Pen.

Gel selector quiz (for professionals)

Client sensitivity history

Primary stain profile

Result urgency

Setting & tools

For professional use only. Follow product IFU, local regulations, and patient-specific clinical judgment.