Whitening trays — at home vs. at UNO.
Custom-fit whitening trays are the workhorse of long-term whitening. Here's the difference between drugstore strips, generic trays, and dentist-made trays — and where GleamBar fits in.
Drugstore strips.
Cheap, mildly effective, hard to apply evenly. Often cause sensitivity because they sit on the gums too. Fine for occasional touch-ups, weak for a real shade change.
One-size generic trays.
Boil-and-bite mouthpieces with whitening gel. Better than strips but still don't seal well — gel leaks and sensitivity is common. The whitening gel concentration is also lower than what a dentist can prescribe.
Custom-fit trays from UNO.
Scanned to your teeth, snug seal, gel held against enamel only. Higher prescription-strength gel concentration than retail. Most patients see 4–6 shades brighter over 2 weeks of nightly wear. Trays last 5+ years; you refill the gel.
What GleamBar adds.
Our $99.99/mo membership includes unlimited cleanings, exams, X-rays — and Philips Zoom in-office whitening, which is the fastest path to a major shade change. Pair with custom trays for maintenance.
Common questions.
Do trays cause sensitivity?
Some — we use a desensitizing gel before whitening sessions and recommend taking a day off if sensitivity flares.
How long do results last?
6–12 months between full refreshes if you maintain with occasional tray use. Coffee, tea, and red wine accelerate re-staining.
What does a custom tray set cost?
Scans + trays + initial gel: $399. Refills are $40–$60. Included in GleamBar membership.
Whitening that actually works?
Custom trays start with a 30-minute scan. Book it.
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