Trim, mute or fader?

[blues4u]

I am new to PT (Digi 001 running LE 5.3.1 on a PC)and this forum so forgive me if this has been asked and answered (I did some searches and didn't find exactly what I was looking for)...
I am importing .wav files that I recorded live so each track is one complete region. For tracks that are used only in certain spots (backing vocals, solos, etc) what to folks recommend for handling these; trim, mute or fader? What are the advantages and disadvantages to any technique?
Any input is appreciated.

[metaltim]

so is the wav file the whole length of the song? and only a fraction of it actually has sound?

if so, i woulc cut any long spaces that have no sound. then just use a fade to end, and fade to beginning to get rid of pops.

[Ben Jenssen]

Strip silence.
I think its in the windows menu. Be shure to leave some "padding".

If you get clicks at start or end of regions, select all regions and select "Create fades...".

[cybership]

I usually trim dead spots or highlight and delete them. Saves on fader automation moves which may not be a big deal depending on how much you have going on. You might save some time using Strip Silence as Ben suggested.