Snow Whitening Strips vs. Crest 3D Whitening Strips: Which Delivers Better Results for Your Smile?

Written by Estephany SNOW

October 09, 2025

Medically Reviewed

By Dr. Brian Harris, DDS

If you’re on the hunt for whiter teeth, chances are you’ve compared Snow Whitening Strips vs Crest 3D Whitening Strips, two of the most popular teeth whitening strips available today.

With so many teeth whitening products and teeth whitening kits flooding the market, knowing which one actually works can be overwhelming.

Whether you have sensitive teeth, deep-set stains, or just want a brighter smile for everyday confidence, we’re breaking down the real differences between these at-home treatments.

This comparison will help you find out which product fits your goals, protects your enamel, and delivers the best results safely.

Quick Comparison Table

Here’s a side-by-side snapshot of Snow and Crest whitening strips to help you quickly compare their ingredients, technology, and whitening performance.

Product Overviews: SNOW Whitening Strips vs. Crest 3D Whitestrips

Product Overviews: SNOW Whitening Strips vs. Crest 3D Whitestrips

Now that we’ve laid out the basics, let’s take a closer look at what each whitening system offers, how they work, and who they’re best suited for.

SNOW Whitening Strips

The Snow Diamond Dissolving Whitening Strips offer one of the most advanced at-home whitening treatments in the market. These whitening strips feature patented P3 Whitening Technology that pairs hydrogen peroxide with dual phosphates for superior stain removal and whitening results, all while being gentle on tooth enamel. Infused with hydroxyapatite, they not only whiten teeth but also help remineralize and protect tooth enamel over time.

What sets Snow apart from many over-the-counter products is the mess-free dissolving format. The upper and lower strips dissolve in about 15 minutes, eliminating the need for a whitening tray or removal process. This makes them ideal for busy users looking for a convenient option that fits into their daily oral care routine.

Snow’s whitening formula is designed to deliver professional-level results without causing tooth sensitivity, making it a go-to for users with sensitive teeth or thin enamel. The inclusion of enamel-safe ingredients and lack of irritating essential oils like lemon peel oil or sage oil make it a safe, gentle formula that still gets real whitening results.

Shop SNOW Whitening Strips

Pros:

  • Uses hydrogen peroxide and hydroxyapatite for both whitening and enamel care

  • Dissolving format eliminates the need for whitening trays or rinsing

  • Suitable for extremely sensitive teeth and everyday use

  • No reported gum irritation or tooth pain

  • Includes advanced active ingredients and a gentle formulation

Cons:

  • It may be more gradual than other whitening kits

  • Slightly more expensive than basic whitening strips

 

Crest 3D Whitestrips

Crest 3D Whitestrips are one of the most well-known at-home teeth whitening products, especially popular for their fast results.

The 1-Hour Express kit promises up to 12 levels whiter teeth in just 10 days and uses hydrogen peroxide, the same whitening ingredient found in many in-office treatments, to lift stains quickly and effectively.

Each whitening treatment consists of two strips, one for the upper and lower teeth. These adhere tightly using Crest’s Advanced Seal Technology so users can talk or drink water while wearing them. Unlike dissolving strips, Crest’s version must be peeled off after each session.

These whitening strips are great for users looking for a short-term whitening solution before an event, such as a wedding or photoshoot. However, those with extremely sensitive teeth or gum sensitivity may experience some discomfort depending on the peroxide concentration.

Pros:

  • Fast-acting formula with noticeable results in just a few sessions

  • Uses hydrogen peroxide to remove surface stains and whiten teeth

  • Affordable and widely accessible

  • Trusted by cosmetic dentists and recommended by professionals

Cons:

  • Can cause temporary tooth sensitivity in some users

  • No added ingredients for enamel care or sensitivity relief

  • Does not dissolve, requiring full 60-minute wear and removal

Head-to-Head Comparison

Let’s break down the most important differences between Snow and Crest teeth whitening strips to help you decide which one truly fits your needs.

Price & Overall Value

When it comes to cost, Crest strips appear more affordable upfront, priced at $44.99 for 10 full whitening treatments. Each includes upper and lower strips designed for one-hour sessions over ten days. It's a good entry point for those new to home teeth whitening.

Snow Whitening Strips are priced at $39 for 14 dissolving strips, often bundled with discounts. Though seemingly pricier per treatment, the formula offers more than just whitening. With added hydroxyapatite and advanced active ingredients, you're getting a product designed not just to whiten teeth but also to maintain tooth enamel and reduce tooth sensitivity over time. The dissolving strip format adds convenience, eliminating the need for a whitening tray or cleanup.

While Crest is ideal for short-term whitening goals, Snow offers longer-term value through added care and daily usability.

Effectiveness & Whitening Results

Crest's formula relies solely on hydrogen peroxide and offers fast results, users often report noticeably whiter teeth in 1 to 3 sessions. The whitening process is straightforward and targets surface stains caused by coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco. It’s one of the best teeth whitening strips for events where immediate results matter.

Snow takes a more gradual but comprehensive approach. The whitening strips use hydrogen peroxide plus phosphates and hydroxyapatite to lift stains while supporting enamel health.

The P3 Whitening Technology mimics what a cosmetic dentist might use, making Snow strips ideal for consistent, safe at home treatments. Users typically report visible results within 2 to 3 uses, with optimal results after a week or more.

If your goal is quick whitening before a big moment, Crest works. But if you want whiter teeth without compromising enamel or increasing sensitivity, Snow gives you a more complete whitening treatment.

Sensitivity & Comfort

Sensitivity is one of the top concerns for anyone exploring teeth whitening products, especially users with thin enamel, tooth sensitivity, or a history of gum irritation.

Snow Whitening Strips are specifically designed to minimize discomfort. The formula includes hydroxyapatite, a natural enamel-strengthening mineral, and lower concentration hydrogen peroxide, making it one of the few whitening strips safe for extremely sensitive teeth.

Many users report no temporary tooth sensitivity, even after repeated use. Snow’s formulation also avoids harsh abrasives and unnecessary additives like lemon peel oil, which can worsen sensitivity over time.

Crest 3D Whitestrips, on the other hand, use a higher hydrogen peroxide concentration for faster whitening, but that can come at a cost. While the whitening results are quick, the formula may cause gum irritation or tooth pain in users with pre-existing sensitivity.

It does not contain any active ingredients to counteract enamel damage or repair the tooth surface, which can make it a riskier option for those with thin enamel or tooth sensitivity.

For users concerned about comfort and safety, especially those with sensitive teeth, Snow clearly offers a gentler formula with built-in support for enamel health, making it the more thoughtful option.

Ease of Use & Daily Experience

Daily whitening should feel like a seamless part of your routine, not a chore. That’s where these two products differ significantly.

Snow Whitening Strips dissolve completely in just 15 minutes, leaving no mess, residue, or need to peel anything off. This dissolving strip format makes it one of the most convenient options for users with busy lifestyles.

Whether you’re getting ready in the morning, working from home, or heading out the door, you can whiten your teeth without interrupting your day. The flavor is also pleasantly mild with notes of peppermint and lavender, making it suitable for daily use.

In contrast, Crest Whitestrips require 60 full minutes of wear. They rely on a peel-and-stick design that uses their signature Advanced Seal Technology to stay in place. While effective, this traditional method may feel time-consuming for users who want a quicker routine.

After use, you also need to manually remove the strip and rinse or wipe away any remaining gel. For some, this may feel like a dated approach compared to Snow’s newer format.

If you’re looking for a streamlined whitening experience that easily fits into your schedule, Snow’s dissolving technology wins for ease and daily convenience.

Try SNOW’s no-mess dissolving strips

Technology & Ingredients

When comparing whitening strips, it's not just about what works, it's about how it works, and whether the formula supports your long-term oral health.

Crest Whitestrips rely on hydrogen peroxide as the single active whitening agent. While this is an effective choice and widely used by dental professionals, it lacks any enamel-repairing or sensitivity-reducing ingredients. It's a powerful teeth whitener, but offers little protection for sensitive teeth or thin enamel.

Snow Whitening Strips, by contrast, feature a more advanced blend of active ingredients. Their patented P3® Whitening Technology combines hydrogen peroxide with two phosphates, pentasodium triphosphate and sodium hexametaphosphate, to boost whitening power and help prevent future stains.

These ingredients help lift surface stains and also contribute to enamel maintenance. The inclusion of hydroxyapatite further mimics the kind of support you'd get from a cosmetic dentist, helping to rebuild enamel and protect teeth during the whitening process.

If you’re curious how it compares to fluoride, check out our in-depth guide on hydroxyapatite vs. fluoride for a breakdown of how both support long-term enamel health.

While both products use proven whitening agents, Snow’s formula reflects a more complete and dentist-inspired approach to whitening. It doesn’t just remove stains, it supports long-term oral care.

Aesthetic Results & Cosmetic Appeal

Whitening results matter, but so does how natural your smile looks after treatment, how long results last, and how your teeth feel.

Crest 3D Whitestrips are known for their fast whitening effect. Many users see noticeably whiter teeth in just a few sessions, making them a go-to choice before events, photos, or travel. They can remove surface stains effectively, and their strength often appeals to users looking for quick results. However, results may fade more quickly without additional maintenance or follow-up whitening.

Snow Whitening Strips work more gradually, but with intention. While you might not see the same dramatic transformation overnight, Snow's formula focuses on sustained whitening and enamel support, which contributes to longer-lasting results and a natural tooth shade that looks healthy and bright, not artificially white. Many users report a brighter smile with continued use, along with teeth that feel stronger and less sensitive overall.

If you're after a fast, cosmetic lift, Crest delivers. But for a more natural, whiter smile that maintains comfort and tooth enamel integrity, Snow is the better investment in your smile’s long-term appearance.

Get longer-lasting whitening with SNOW

Brand Reputation & Trust

Crest is a household name with decades of trust, widely endorsed by dental professionals and backed by thousands of reviews. Their whitening products are easily accessible and frequently featured in over the counter product roundups.

Snow has become one of the most innovative teeth whitening brands in the cosmetic dentist recommended space. It’s especially known for addressing sensitive teeth with gentle yet effective products that rival in office treatments. The brand's dedication to safe, enamel-friendly whitening sets it apart in the growing market of at home teeth whitening kits.

Final Verdict

Both Snow and Crest deliver real teeth whitening results, but they serve different goals.

Crest 3D Whitestrips are a reliable, quick, and affordable way to whiten teeth, particularly for first-timers or short-term needs. They use a classic hydrogen peroxide formula that’s effective but can cause sensitivity for some.

Snow Whitening Strips are designed for users who want more than just whiter teeth, they want healthier enamel, less irritation, and a more modern, mess-free whitening process. It’s ideal for daily use, long-term care, and those dealing with sensitive teeth.

Suppose you’re choosing between Snow Whitening Strips vs Crest 3D Whitening Strips and you care about protecting your tooth enamel while achieving noticeably whiter teeth. In that case, Snow is the more advanced and supportive option.

Shop SNOW Whitening Strips Today!

FAQs

Got more questions? Here are the answers to the most common things people want to know before choosing the right teeth whitening strips for their smile.

Is Snow worth the extra money?

Absolutely. The slightly higher price per strip is an investment in a pain-free experience. This ensures you can use the product consistently and achieve the full results, making it a far better value than a cheaper product you might have to abandon halfway through due to discomfort.

Can Crest really remove deep stains?

Yes, its hydrogen peroxide formula is powerful and designed to work on both surface and deep stains. It is a highly effective product, but its power is overshadowed by the very common and well-documented side effect of tooth sensitivity.

How does the 15-minute Snow treatment compare to Crest's 30 minutes?

Snow's formula is designed to work efficiently within its 15-minute, dissolving application. The 30-minute time for Crest is necessary for its thicker gel and different formulation to take effect. The shorter time for Snow is a feature of its modern, convenient design.

Is Snow a reliable brand?

Snow is a very reliable and established brand in dental care, and its "Professional Effects" product is recognized by the American Dental Association.