What is the Difference Between Hydrogen Peroxide and Carbamide Peroxide?

Hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide are both used in teeth whitening products, but they have some differences in terms of composition, whitening ability, speed, and safety:

1. Chemical Composition: Carbamide peroxide is made up of hydrogen peroxide and urea, while hydrogen peroxide consists of hydrogen peroxide only.
2. Whitening Ability: Both carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide are considered equally effective in whitening teeth. However, hydrogen peroxide releases most of its whitening power within the first 30 to 60 minutes, while carbamide peroxide releases about half of its whitening power in the first two hours and remains active for up to 6 hours.
3. Speed: Hydrogen peroxide has a faster release of whitening power, while carbamide peroxide has a slower release.
4. Safety: Carbamide peroxide is generally considered gentler, causing less tooth sensitivity and gum irritation than hydrogen peroxide. Both are approved by the FDA and ADA for teeth whitening.

Both carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide are safe and effective for teeth whitening, but the choice between them depends on your needs. Carbamide peroxide is better for overnight use and sensitive teeth, while hydrogen peroxide is better for quick results and stubborn stains.

Comparative Table: Hydrogen Peroxide vs Carbamide Peroxide

Here is a table comparing the differences between hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide:

Both carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide are oxidizing agents that can effectively whiten teeth. However, carbamide peroxide contains hydrogen peroxide and urea, and breaks down more slowly than hydrogen peroxide. This slower release of whitening power makes carbamide peroxide more suitable for overnight use and is often recommended for people with sensitive teeth. On the other hand, hydrogen peroxide releases most of its whitening ability within the first 30 to 60 minutes, making it better for quick results.