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Discover the best at-home whitening! Compare Opalescence Go (pro-strength trays, less sensitivity) vs. Crest Whitestrips (budget-friendly, easy strips).
Both Opalescence Go and Crest Whitestrips are popular at-home teeth whitening solutions that rely on peroxide (the active ingredient dentists use) to change the color of teeth. They are both highly convenient and ready-to-use, eliminating the need for expensive custom dental trays.
However, they differ significantly in their strength, application method, and overall approach, placing them at different tiers in the whitening market.
Crest Whitestrips: The Accessible, Over-the-Counter Choice
Crest Whitestrips are the more accessible and budget-friendly option. You can purchase them easily at almost any drugstore or online retailer.
- Strength: They contain a lower concentration of peroxide compared to professional products. While effective, this means the desired whitening results often take longer to achieve, requiring consistent use over several weeks or months.
- Application: Whitestrips use a thin, flexible strip coated in gel that you press onto your teeth. A common drawback is that these strips typically only cover the front six to eight teeth, which can lead to uneven whitening across your full smile.
- Sensitivity: While they are generally safe, users often report temporary tooth sensitivity or gum irritation because the strip may not perfectly seal the gel away from the gum tissue.
Opalescence Go: The Professional-Grade, Comfortable Option
Opalescence Go is generally considered the professional-grade alternative, often dispensed by a dentist. This makes it a higher-cost product, but the benefits justify the price difference for many users.
- Strength: It uses a higher concentration of Hydrogen Peroxide (available in strengths like 10% or 15%). This means treatments are faster and can achieve more dramatic results in a shorter time frame (e.g., a 15% tray may only need to be worn for 15–20 minutes per day).
- Application: The product uses prefilled, disposable UltraFit™ trays that are designed to mold better and more completely to your teeth. This ensures molar-to-molar coverage, whitening more of your visible teeth for an even result.
- Sensitivity Reduction: A key advantage is that the gel is integrated with desensitizers, specifically Potassium Nitrate and Fluoride. These ingredients actively work to reduce the temporary sensitivity commonly associated with higher-strength whitening agents, making the experience more comfortable.
Summary of Choice
- Choose Crest Whitestrips if you are on a budget, only need to whiten the front few teeth, and are willing to be patient for results over a longer period.
- Choose Opalescence Go if you prioritize rapid, professional-level results, want maximum comfort with built-in sensitivity protection, and need full, even coverage across your smile.
Key Differences between Opalescence Go and Crest Whitestrips
The core differences between Opalescence Go and Crest Whitestrips revolve around their professional grade, delivery system, strength, and sensitivity management.
- Professional vs. Over-the-Counter (OTC) Status:
- Opalescence Go is widely considered a professional-grade at-home treatment, often dispensed or recommended by dentists. This gives users access to higher-quality formulations and concentrations.
- Crest Whitestrips are the standard over-the-counter option, easily accessible at any drugstore.
- Whitening Strength and Speed:
- Opalescence Go offers higher concentrations of hydrogen peroxide (e.g., 10% or 15%). This higher potency means users can achieve more noticeable, faster results with shorter daily wear times.
- Crest Whitestrips use a lower concentration of peroxide. While effective, the results are typically slower and less dramatic, requiring more days of treatment to reach the same level of brightness.
- Application Method and Coverage:
- Opalescence Go uses a unique UltraFit™ prefilled tray that molds more securely to the teeth. This design ensures molar-to-molar coverage, whitening the entire visible arch for a more uniform result.
- Crest Whitestrips use a flexible strip that adheres to the tooth surface. These strips often only cover the front 6 to 8 teeth, potentially leading to uneven whitening in the back teeth.
- Sensitivity Management:
- Opalescence Go integrates Potassium Nitrate and Fluoride directly into the whitening gel. These ingredients are added specifically to reduce the sensitivity and discomfort that can accompany whitening.
- Crest Whitestrips do not typically include these integrated desensitizing agents, so temporary sensitivity and gum irritation are more commonly reported, especially if the strip overlaps onto the gum tissue.
Opalescence Go Review
Opalescence Go is a more professional-grade, yet still over-the-counter, whitening system. It is a set of pre-filled, disposable trays that are designed to conform to your teeth for a snug, custom-like fit. This ensures the whitening gel stays in contact with your teeth and minimizes contact with your gums, which can help reduce sensitivity.
- Active Ingredient: Opalescence Go uses a hydrogen peroxide gel, typically in concentrations of 10% or 15%.
- Application Method: It uses pre-filled, disposable trays that you place over your teeth. The trays are designed to mold to your unique bite.
- Treatment Time: The trays are worn for a shorter duration, often 15 to 60 minutes per day, for about 5 to 10 days, depending on the strength.
- Key Advantage: The trays provide more even and consistent coverage than strips. The gel also contains desensitizing ingredients like potassium nitrate and fluoride, which help reduce tooth sensitivity.
Key Features:
- Pre-filled trays for hassle-free application.
- High hydrogen peroxide concentration for quick results.
- Disposable trays eliminate the need for molding.
Pros:
- Effective at whitening teeth rapidly.
- No need for custom molds or impressions.
- Convenience of pre-filled trays.
Cons:
- May lead to increased teeth sensitivity in some users.
- Slightly higher in cost compared to some alternatives.
Opalescence Go is an excellent option if you want fast and noticeable results without the hassle of custom molds. However, be mindful of potential sensitivity issues.
Crest Whitestrips Review
Crest Whitestrips are the most widely known and accessible at-home whitening product. They consist of thin, flexible strips coated with a whitening gel. The strips are applied directly to the front of your teeth and are a convenient, mess-free option.
- Active Ingredient: Crest Whitestrips use hydrogen peroxide in varying concentrations, generally lower than professional products.
- Application Method: You peel a thin, gel-coated strip from a backing and press it onto your teeth.
- Treatment Time: The treatment typically involves wearing the strips for 30 minutes a day, often for a period of 10 to 20 days, depending on the specific product (e.g., Professional Effects, Vivid).
- Key Advantage: They are widely available at drugstores, affordable, and incredibly easy to use. The strip application is convenient and mess-free.
Key Features:
- Adhesive strips for easy application.
- Lower hydrogen peroxide concentration for gentler whitening.
- Affordable and readily available.
Pros:
- Less likelihood of teeth sensitivity.
- Budget-friendly option.
- Availability in various formulations.
Cons:
- May require more extended use for desired results.
- Adherence to teeth can be challenging for some users.
Crest Whitestrips are a suitable choice if you prefer a cost-effective option with potentially less sensitivity. However, patience may be required for optimal results.
Verdict
In the battle between Opalescence Go and Crest Whitestrips, the right choice depends on your priorities. If you value quick results and don’t mind investing a bit more, Opalescence Go is a strong contender. On the other hand, if budget-friendliness and potential sensitivity reduction are essential, Crest Whitestrips could be the better fit.
Remember that individual preferences and teeth sensitivity vary, so it’s essential to consider your specific needs.
Which is better, Opalescence Go or Crest Whitestrips
Choose Opalescence Go if you are looking for a more professional-grade, effective whitening system and are willing to pay more for a product that provides a better fit and can help reduce tooth sensitivity.
Choose Crest Whitestrips if you prioritize affordability, convenience, and a product that is easy to find at any local store. They are an excellent starting point for at-home whitening and can provide noticeable results over time.
Key Takeaways
- Effectiveness: Opalescence Go may offer faster and more significant results due to its higher peroxide concentration.
- Comfort and Fit: Opalescence’s pre-filled trays provide a more customized fit compared to the one-size-fits-all strips of Crest.
- Sensitivity Considerations: Crest Whitestrips are a better option if you have sensitive teeth.
- Price: Crest Whitestrips are more affordable and easily accessible.
Comprehensive Comparison Table
Here’s a comprehensive comparison table that showcases the key specifications and differences between Opalescence Go and Crest Whitestrips:
| Pre-filled trays | Adhesive strips |
| Around 15% Hydrogen Peroxide Concentration | Around 3% Hydrogen Peroxide Concentration |
| Shorter Treatment duration | Longer Treatment duration |
| Easy to use with pre-filled trays | Requires careful application |
| May lead to increased sensitivity | Potential for less sensitivity |
| Whitening Results Quick and noticeable | Whitening Results May require extended use |
| Slightly higher cost | Budget-friendly option |
This table provides a quick overview of the fundamental differences between the two products, allowing you to make an informed decision based on your preferences and needs.
In the following sections, we’ll provide detailed reviews of each product, highlighting their key features, pros, and cons.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some common questions about Opalescence Go and Crest Whitestrips:
1. Which product is more budget-friendly?
- Crest Whitestrips are generally more budget-friendly.
2. Will Opalescence Go make my teeth more sensitive?
- It may increase sensitivity in some users due to its higher hydrogen peroxide concentration.
3. How long does it take to see results with Crest Whitestrips?
- Results may take longer to become noticeable compared to Opalescence Go.
4. Can I use Opalescence Go if I have sensitive teeth?
- Individuals with sensitive teeth should use Opalescence Go with caution and consult with a dentist if concerns arise.
5. Are there different formulations of Crest Whitestrips available?
- Yes, Crest offers various formulations to cater to different preferences and needs.
Opalescence Go and Crest Whitestrips are both effective teeth whitening options, each with its own set of advantages and drawbacks. Choosing the right one for you ultimately depends on your budget, preference for application method, and sensitivity considerations.
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Dr. Tom Bell has a PhD in Medical Anthropology. He has a keen interest in oral health topics and is the founder of dentalrave. He has been an oral health researcher and electric toothbrush enthusiast for over 10 years. Tom works with Awin and others in his research. When not talking about dental hygiene and gadgets, Tom likes spending time outdoors hiking.
Last update on 2025-11-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API