Uk
de_DEen_GBen_USes_ESfr_FR

Dentaly.org is reader-supported. When you buy via the links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

PAP Teeth Whitening: How Does It Work, Is It Safe, and What Are the Best Products?

Amanda Dexter
Contributor:
Amanda Dexter
Medically reviewed by
Dr. Sarah Abbas
calendar icon
updated icon
Up-to-Date

Are you in the market for teeth whitening and exploring all your options? Perhaps you've stumbled upon PAP teeth whitening and are curious about what it entails. Unlike the commonly used hydrogen peroxide, PAP teeth whitening is a newer and less known technique.

But don't let its novelty deter you – it's gaining popularity and could be a safe and effective teeth whitening alternative for you. If you're eager to learn more about PAP and its safety, you're not alone.

This article will all answer all your questions about PAP and PAP+ teeth whitening, including:

  • What is PAP teeth whitening? 
  • How does it work?
  • What is the difference between PAP and PAP+ teeth whitening?
  • How does PAP compare to hydrogen peroxide teeth whitening? 
  • What are the best PAP teeth whitening products?

Or if you just want some quick PAP teeth whitening product recommendations, check out the following options. We have more information on each of these later on.

[wptb id="" not found ]

There are a lot of benefits to using PAP teeth whitening products, especially if you’re not too sure about using ones with peroxide as the main ingredient. So let's start with finding out exactly what PAP is and how it works to whiten your teeth. 

What is PAP teeth whitening? 

What is PAP teeth whitening and is it safe?

PAP, the abbreviation for phthalimidoperoxycaproic acid, is the main whitening ingredient in some whitening products. Brands such as Hismile and iSmile use PAP or PAP+ as the main ingredient in all their whitening products, including whitening kits, strips and mouthwash. 

It is a non-peroxide whitening agent that has been clinically proven to be just as effective as hydrogen peroxide when it comes to whitening teeth.  

PAP isn’t as widely used as peroxides due to the fact that it is a relatively new concept. More recently though, some companies have created a safe and effective formula to use in their whitening products that are gaining in popularity. 

How does PAP teeth whitening work? 

Although PAP is an alternative ingredient to hydrogen peroxide for whitening teeth, it does work much the same with some key differences. Let's start with how teeth whitening works before diving into how PAP whitens teeth. 

There are two types of whitening: physical and chemical. Physical whitening is the removal of stains on the surface of your teeth through abrasion, and chemical whitening bleaches your teeth on both the surface and removes stains embedded slightly deeper. 

There are three main ingredients that can be used in chemical teeth whitening:

  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Carbamide peroxide
  • Phthalimidoperoxycaproic acid (PAP) 

Each of these ingredients whitens teeth by oxidising stains and lightening the overall tooth colour. They work by entering through the enamel layer and altering and breaking down the molecules that hold colour: the smaller the molecule the lighter the colour. 

The difference between these whitening ingredients is that when peroxides get to work they release free radicals that can damage your teeth and gum tissue. PAP does not release free radicals when it oxidises stains, making it much safer for you to use to whiten your teeth. 

In the following video, Professor Laurie Walsh explains the science behind PAP teeth whitening:

Emeritus Professor Laurie Walsh breaks down the role of PAP (Phthalimidoperoxycaproicacid) in dental bleaching and teeth whitening and how Hismile’s PAP+ formula effectively whitens teeth without the negative effects of Peroxide technologies. As it is widely understood, Peroxide based whitenings such as Hydrogen Peroxide and Carbamide Peroxide based whitening formulas are prone to causing irritation and damage to the enamel of the teeth. In this video we explore the primary alternative to Peroxide based whitening PAP, discussing how PAP works, studies behind the effectiveness and safety of PAP in whitening, Hismile’s unique PAP+ teeth whitening formula and the results and benefits of Hismile's formula and approach. For more information regarding Hismile's Professional range, or to enquire about how you can become involved, visit: https://hismileprofessional.com 0:00 Approaches to teeth whitening 01:40 Dealing with effects caused by Hydrogen Peroxide 02:28 Limitations in teeth whitening for dentists 03:12 Alternatives to Hydrogen Peroxide 03:55 How PAP works 08:00 Scientific studies behind PAP 11:20 Hismile PAP+ teeth whitening formula 14:29 Teeth whitening results with Hismile PAP+ 16:50 Benefits of using Hismile PAP+ teeth whitening

What is the difference between PAP and PAP+?

iSmile and Hismile both use phthalimidoperoxycaproic acid (PAP) whitening, but you may have noticed that Hismile refers to their whitening formula as PAP+. This may sound like they use different active whitening ingredients, but the difference between the two formulae is the other added ingredients.

The + in Hismile's PAP+ formula actually refers to the ingredient nano-hydroxyapatite (Nano-HAp). Both Hismile and iSmile include the ingredient hydroxyapatite (HAp), a naturally occurring form of calcium apatite found in bones, saliva and teeth. HAp helps to remineralise teeth by replacing minerals and strengthening weakened enamel.

Hismile uses a nano-synthetic version which works slightly better because the particles are smaller, and can therefore fill in more damaged areas of enamel. Nano-HAp has been proven to remineralise enamel, specifically initial lesions, at a higher rate than fluoride. 

Hismile’s PAP+ formula also includes Potassium citrate to help with any pre-existing sensitivity you may have prior to whitening your teeth.

So, in short, a PAP+ formula is no more effective at whitening teeth, but it should do a better job of remineralising enamel.

What are the best PAP teeth whitening products? 

iSmile and Hismile are both brands that have PAP teeth whitening products available. Hismile has a whole range of PAP+ whitening products including whitening strips, powder, and mouthwash and their world-famous V34 Colour Corrector

iSmile PAP PRO Teeth Whitening Kit

The iSmile PAP PRO Premium LED Teeth Whitening Kit offers a convenient and effective at-home teeth whitening solution:

  • Peroxide-Free & Sensitivity-Free Formula: Gentle on enamel and suitable for sensitive teeth, it targets stains from tea, coffee, wine, and smoking.
  • Quick Results: Promises noticeable whitening in just 6 days with 10-minute treatments, making it easy to fit into your routine.
  • Complete Kit: Includes 6 whitening pods, an advanced LED light mouthpiece, and a shade guide for progress tracking.
  • Advanced LED Light Accelerator: Enhances the whitening effect for more effective results.
  • Long-Lasting Results: Offers refill kits for continued use, keeping your smile brighter for longer.
  • Pain-Free Whitening: Designed to restore the enamel while brightening, without causing irritation.
  • Cost-Effective: A budget-friendly alternative to professional teeth whitening treatments.

With positive user reviews, many report seeing significant improvements within a week. This product offers a fast, affordable, and safe way to achieve a whiter smile at home.

PAP whitening strips
Hismile's PAP+ Whitening Strips

Hismile PAP+ Whitening Strips 

These whitening strips work just like other types of whitening strips except they use Hismile’s PAP+ formula. This means that you get the same remineralising and desensitising benefits as you do when you use the whitening kit. 

While you won’t get quite the same results as you do when using the whitening kit, they are a quick and convenient way to whiten your teeth on the go. 

Unlike other types of strips, you won’t have to suffer through sensitive teeth after you have used them, and your teeth may even feel less sensitive after whitening

PAP
Hismile's Teeth Whitening Powder

Hismile PAP+ Whitening Powder 

Hismile’s Whitening Powder is one of their newer whitening products to become available. It includes all of the benefits of their PAP+ teeth whitening formula in powder form. All you have to do is apply your regular toothpaste to your toothbrush, and dip it in the whitening powder. 

Then just brush your teeth, as you normally would. The whitening powder turns your regular toothpaste into a whitening toothpaste without you having to change from your favourite brand of toothpaste. You can read more about teeth-whitening powder in our guide here.

Conclusion

PAP teeth whitening is a safe and effective way to whiten your teeth without causing the damage that you sometimes get with peroxide products. 

iSmile have a whitening kit that use phthalimidoperoxy caproic acid (PAP) as the main ingredient. They also include other ingredients to help remineralise, desensitise and strengthen your teeth. Hismile has a full range of PAP+ whitening products including whitening kits, strips, powder, and mouthwash! 

The PAP+ formula is slightly different from PAP because it includes the ingredient nano-hydroxyapatite. This is a nano-synthetic version that has smaller particles to help remineralise your teeth enamel more effectively. 

FAQs

What is PAP teeth whitening?

PAP teeth whitening is a revolutionary teeth whitening treatment that utilises a unique formula containing a natural compound known as phthalimido peroxy caproic acid (PAP) to whiten teeth.

How does PAP teeth whitening work?

PAP is a chemical compound used in teeth whitening that causes oxidation on teeth, breaking down surface stains and reducing their hue. The breakdown of these stains results in a whiter smile.

Is PAP teeth whitening safe?

Yes, PAP teeth whitening is considered safe and effective for teeth whitening. The natural PAP compound used in the gel doesn't damage teeth or gums. Follow instructions to avoid side effects.

How long does it take to see results with PAP teeth whitening?

PAP teeth whitening results may vary based on discolouration and product. Visible effects can be seen after a few uses, while optimal results require 1-2 weeks of use.

Can PAP teeth whitening be used on sensitive teeth?

Yes, PAP teeth whitening is safe to use on sensitive teeth. However, it is important to choose a product specifically designed for sensitive teeth and to follow the instructions carefully.

How long do the results of PAP teeth whitening last?

PAP teeth whitening results can last 6 months to 2 years. It varies based on the frequency of touch-ups, oral hygiene practices and lifestyle habits of the individual.

[wptb id="" not found ]

PAP Teeth Whitening: How Does It Work, Is It Safe, and What Are the Best Products?
{score}/{best} - ({count} {votes})