| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| ID | OA-0342 |
| Type | specialty |
| Category | specialty |
| Fixed/removable | removable |
| Primary function | tooth whitening (at-home bleaching) |
| Material | thin thermoformed vinyl or PETG (0.020–0.030″) |
| Wear protocol | typically 30–60 min/day or overnight with 10–22% carbamide peroxide |
| Uses TADs | no |
Custom bleaching trays are thin thermoformed vinyl or PETG trays fabricated from stone models, fitting precisely over the teeth to hold bleaching gel against the enamel surface. They are significantly more effective than OTC strip-based whitening because the custom fit maximizes gel-to-tooth contact time and minimizes saliva contamination. Custom trays are a standard adjunct to orthodontic treatment — many orthodontic practices offer whitening as a value-add at the completion of treatment, and custom trays fabricated by the lab add a small revenue stream with minimal clinical burden. CFL offers the Bleaching Tray at and the Reservoir variant (likely a per-tray addition).
The whitening gel (typically 10–22% carbamide peroxide for take-home, which releases hydrogen peroxide over time) penetrates the enamel and oxidizes chromogenic compounds (stain molecules), breaking their color bonds. Custom trays ensure even gel distribution across all tooth surfaces and reduce gel escape into the gingival sulcus (reducing gum sensitivity). Reservoir trays have small indentations molded into the facial surface of each tooth position — these hold additional gel, improving overnight whitening efficiency.
Post-orthodontic whitening at completion of treatment; standalone whitening for patients requesting tooth color improvement; combination with in-office bleaching for maximum whitening effect; adult patients with extrinsic staining or age-related discoloration; orthodontic practice add-on service for completed cases.
Not appropriate for tetracycline staining (limited response to peroxide bleaching). Sensitivity is a common side effect — potassium nitrate-containing toothpaste can help. Restorations (crowns, veneers, composites) do not bleach with the natural teeth — existing restorations may need replacement after whitening to match. Not for patients under 18 (developing enamel). Avoid during pregnancy.
surface of each tooth in the tray
irritation)
Tray material must be thin enough to fit between the teeth without creating bite problems, but strong enough to hold the gel without collapsing. Reservoir creation: a small ball-end instrument or vacuum block creates the indentations before thermoforming. Scalloped trim lines are preferred over straight-line trims — they reduce gel escape and gingival irritation. CFL's Bleaching Tray (per pair) and Reservoir (per tray add-on) are competitively priced.
surfaces; maximum gel contact; even bleaching
tray surface; holds more gel; preferred by some protocols
margin); straight-cut (flat gingival edge); scalloped reduces soft tissue gel contact
convenience
15–60 minutes chairside; different from take-home
Lab](https://www.ddslab.com/orthodontics/retainer-finishing/)
Economics](https://www.dentaleconomics.com/practice/article/16388671/chairside-and-at-home-bleaching-products)
reservoir design, business notes.