Frequently asked questions (professionals)
What is the best professional teeth whitening gel for medspas?
For most medspas, 25% hydrogen peroxide is the daily driver for balanced results and comfort. Add 16% for sensitivity-first clients and 35%+ for advanced cases. Pair with PAP+ or a CP pen for maintenance.
Which hydrogen peroxide strength should I start with?
Start with 16% for sensitivity-prone or cautious first-time clients. Use 25% when you want predictable results on most cases without excessive sensitivity risk.
Is 44% hydrogen peroxide too strong?
44% is maximum-power and should be reserved for experienced providers with strict isolation, careful timing, and comfort monitoring. It’s not a “default gel.”
Is hydrogen peroxide whitening enamel-safe?
When used by trained professionals with correct isolation and protocol timing, peroxide whitening is designed to be enamel-safe. Sensitivity management is part of professional technique.
Does carbamide peroxide work as well as hydrogen peroxide?
Carbamide peroxide works well for maintenance because it releases peroxide more slowly. Hydrogen peroxide is preferred for fast chairside results.
What is PAP+ whitening and does it work?
PAP+ is a peroxide-free oxidizer used for gentle whitening and maintenance. It’s especially useful for sensitivity-prone clients and peroxide-free positioning.
Which is better for sensitivity: PAP+ or peroxide?
PAP+ typically has the lowest sensitivity profile. Lower-strength peroxide protocols can also be comfortable when isolation, cycles, and aftercare are controlled.
Do LED whitening lights improve results?
Lights support workflow and comfort perception, but outcomes are primarily driven by gel strength, isolation quality, and protocol consistency.
Do crowns, veneers, or bonding whiten?
No. Only natural enamel responds to whitening. Restorations do not change shade from peroxide or PAP+ whitening.
How long do professional whitening results last?
Typically 6–12 months depending on diet, habits, and maintenance. Retention improves when clients follow aftercare and use maintenance products.
How often can clients do professional whitening?
Many clients repeat professional services every 6–12 months. Maintenance between visits is usually the best approach for long-term shade retention.
Is a gingival barrier required?
For higher-strength peroxide protocols (commonly ≥35%), gingival barrier is strongly recommended to protect soft tissue and reduce irritation risk.
What causes post-whitening sensitivity?
Sensitivity is often linked to transient dehydration, exposed dentin, and nerve response. Protocol control, isolation, and conservative cycle decisions reduce incidence.
Which gel should I stock if I want minimal SKUs?
Stock 16% (gentle), 25% (daily driver), 35% (advanced), plus PAP+ or a CP pen for maintenance. Add gingival barrier as a mandatory accessory.
What’s best for heavy coffee or smoker stains?
Higher strengths like 35%–44% are typically chosen for heavier staining, assuming proper isolation and careful cycle monitoring.
What’s best for mild yellowing?
16% or 25% hydrogen peroxide protocols often perform well for mild yellowing. PAP+ is a good option for gentle maintenance.
Can I combine in-office peroxide with take-home maintenance?
Yes. That’s usually the most effective strategy: in-office peroxide for immediate lift, then PAP+ or CP pen maintenance to keep results stable.
Does higher percentage always mean better whitening?
Not always. Protocol, contact time, isolation, and stain type matter. Higher strengths can increase sensitivity risk without better outcomes if technique is poor.
What’s the safest “default” strength for a medspa menu?
25% hydrogen peroxide is commonly used as a balanced default. Offer 16% as a gentle option and 35%+ as an advanced option for qualifying clients.
How do I reduce uneven results?
Improve isolation and dryness, apply a uniform gel layer, keep cycle timing consistent, and avoid soft-tissue contact that can disrupt application.
Do whitening gels expire?
Yes, active ingredients can degrade over time. Store as directed and rotate inventory to maintain predictable performance.
What should clients avoid after whitening?
A 48-hour “white diet” is commonly recommended, avoiding staining foods and drinks. Reinforce gentle home care and maintenance guidance.
Is peroxide-free whitening “better” for enamel?
Peroxide-free options like PAP+ can be preferable for sensitivity and comfort. Professional peroxide protocols are designed to be enamel-safe when used correctly.
Which LaserGlow products pair best with higher-strength gels?
For advanced peroxide strengths, pair with
gingival barrier and professional supplies to keep the protocol safe and consistent.
Where can professionals buy LaserGlow whitening gels?