More than 99 percent of adults believe a person's smile is an important social asset, according to a national survey conducted by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. Although there are many dental procedures to improve the appearance of your smile, many people are particularly interested in whitening their teeth. Two products, Crest Whitestrips Supreme and Crest Whitestrips Premium, can help people achieve a whiter smile.
Availability
Crest Whitestrips Premium were widely available in drugstores and supermarkets, but Crest Whitestrips were only intended to be used under the guidance of a dentist and could only be obtained through a dental office. However, as of 2010, both Crest Whitestrips Supreme and Crest Whitestrips Premium have been discontinued and replaced with Crest's new 3D whitening products. Although you may have trouble finding Crest Whitestrips Premium in stores or Crest Whitestrips Supreme in dental offices now, you may be able to purchase both products online, including on the websites Amazon.com or eBay.com.
Concentration
Crest Whitestrips Supreme contained a much stronger concentration of the active ingredient hydrogen peroxide than Crest Whitestrips Premium. Crest Whitestrips Supreme contains 14 percent hydrogen peroxide, according to its package. Crest Whitestrips Premium contains 10 percent hydrogen peroxide, according to its package.
Cost
Since both products have been discontinued and, as of 2010, are only being sold online through third-party sellers, the price of each product can vary greatly. Crest Whitestrips Supreme, however, usually cost more than Crest Whitestrips Premium.
Length of Use
Crest Whitestrips Premium is intended to be used for a period of seven days, while Crest Whitestrips Supreme is intended to be used for 21 days, according to their packages.
Results
Since Crest Whitestrips Supreme contain a higher concentration of the active ingredient hydrogen peroxide, they generally whiten teeth better than Crest Whitestrips Premium. In 2009, Consumer Reports listed Crest Whitestrips Supreme as one of its top reviewed products. The results from Crest Whitestrips Supreme typically last 18 months, while results from Crest Whitestrips Premium typically only last 12 months, according to their packages.
Misconceptions
Although Crest Whitestrips Supreme contains a higher concentration of hydrogen peroxide and may whiten more effectively, this does not necessarily mean the product is a better choice. In addition to the higher cost, some individuals may experience gum discomfort or tooth sensitivity from higher levels of hydrogen peroxide, warns the Cleveland Clinic. Although these side effects are usually temporary and may be reduced by using sensitivity-reducing toothpaste, these side effects may discourage some individuals from using Crest Whitestrips Supreme. In addition, people using Crest Whitestrips Supreme should be monitored by a doctor, which may prove inconvenient for some.
