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What to consider
Fit
Make sure the white strips fit snug on your teeth and don't touch the gums.
Coverage
Make sure the teeth whitening strips cover the majority of your teeth.
Ease of use
Whitening strips should be easy to apply.
Sensations
Those with sensitive teeth should look out for products without hydrogen peroxide.
Length of wear
Decide what length of time you're comfortable wearing white strips. Sensitive teeth should avoid prolonged wear.
vs
Compare Back to selectionIf you're looking at professional teeth whitening for your dental care, you might know it's an expensive service. It can cost anywhere from $300 to $1,000. There's no surprise that many people turn to over-the-counter strips, kits and toothpaste to brighten their smiles. "Think of whitening strips as tiny chemistry labs for your teeth," says Dr. Karen Man, dentist and chief dental officer of SmileGrove Dental. "They’re coated with hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which are fancy names for bleaching agents that break apart stain molecules." To see which ones actually work, we tested a variety of products to find the best teeth whitening strips based on fit, active ingredients, ease of use, wear time and strip count.
Crest 3D Whitestrips are our pick as the best teeth whitening strips overall because our tests determined that they had the best results with the most effective active ingredients. If you have surface stains from years of tea, coffee and wine consumption, the whitening agent in Crest 3D Whitestrips can effectively whiten teeth by as much as 23 levels.
But health comes before vanity, so check with your dentist first -- especially if you have a history of enamel erosion or need dental work such as filling a cavity. You should also take precautions when using whitening strips if you have crowns, veneers or fillings, as whitening products may affect these differently.
Why we like it: Crest 3D Whitestrips are truly a classic. They're easy to find and easy to use and I've bought them many times. Each Crest 3D Whitestrips Professional Effects box contains 48 strips for 24 treatments. Wear one strip a day for 30 minutes and Crest claims that you can remove up to 14 years of stains by the end of your last treatment.
Who is it best for: These whitening strips are best for someone who wants up to 23 levels of whiter teeth in about 24 days using the active ingredient hydrogen peroxide.
Who should not get it: One thing to keep in mind is that the coverage is a little less than other brands on this list. I found that it was OK, I just wished the strips would reach over my canines more. They are also the most expensive at $45. Despite that, Crest 3D is still my No. 1 on this list because they're effective time and time again.
... Show more Get it nowWhy we like it: If you don’t like the feeling of whitening strips sitting on your teeth for up to 30 minutes, you can try dissolving strips, instead. Moon Dissolving Whitening Strips are applied just like any other strips but after 15 minutes, they dissolve. There’s no unnecessary waste or mess and no need to rinse. The strips are also peppermint flavored.
Who is it best for: Moon states that in two weeks or less, you can whiten your teeth up to seven shades lighter. In addition to being vegan and cruelty-free, these dissolving whitening strips are free of SLS/SLES (which can irritate skin), triclosan, parabens and artificial flavors.
Who should not get it: These are the third most expensive whitening strips on this list at $40, so if that's not in your budget, you may want to find a more affordable product or one that's on sale.
... Show more Get it nowWhy we like it: Anyone who has sensitive teeth should check out Lumineux Oral Essentials. Lumineux products don't include hydrogen peroxide and instead use a combination of Dead Sea salt, essential oils, coconut oil and aloe vera. The fit and coverage were great, although they did slip around a bit. Lumineux products are also cruelty-free.
Who is it best for: I tested these for three consecutive days, so I can't speak to the long-term efficacy compared with other brands. But Lumineux did conduct a clinical trial that concluded Crest 3D Whitestrips were no more effective than Lumineux natural whitening strips. (The study was funded in part by Lumineux, however.) Still, I think they're worth a shot for people with sensitive teeth and gums.
Who should not get it: Like the Crest 3D Whitestrips Professional Effects, these whitening strips are also $45, which is on the more expensive side.
... Show more Get it nowWhy we like it: Zimba whitening strips are affordable and effective at lightening the shade of your teeth. One pack comes with 28 strips for results in 14 days or less. Wear one strip for 30 minutes a day.
Who is it best for: This cruelty-free brand has found a way to combat one of the negatives of whitening strips -- the strong, bitter taste. Zimba offers 10 flavors to choose from, including watermelon and spearmint. On top of that, the strips have a nonslip design that grip your teeth during each treatment.
Who should not get it: The most affordable on this list ($25), this product comes with the fewest treatments: 28 strips for 14 treatments. If you're looking to get the most treatments out of your purchase, the Moon Dissolving Whitening Strips offer the highest number, 28 treatments.
... Show more Get it nowI began this list of teeth whitening strips with teeth whitening products that could potentially make it into this roundup, looking at factors like brand reputation, buyer reviews on Amazon and full reviews by other writers. After narrowing the lengthy list of teeth whitening strips, I started testing.
It would be impossible to test the long-term efficacy of all of these whitening strips without annihilating my enamel and gum tissue or distinguishing results with back-to-back testing on my own teeth, so I judged each product against a few criteria that I think will help you make a buying decision.
Before buying your next box of teeth whitening strips, consider these factors.
You want your strips to fully cover your teeth and not go up over your gums, which can cause gum sensitivity. Additionally, their fit should be snug. While you go about your day waiting for it to be time to take the strips off, they should not slip and slide inside your mouth.
While whitening your molars is not necessary (since you hardly see them anyway), your teeth whitening strips should still cover a good percentage of your teeth. After you apply the strip, smile and look in the mirror. Is the strip touching all of the teeth you can see in your normal smile? If not, time to try another brand.
Whitening strips should be simple. Apply the product, wait a specified amount of time and take the strips off. If the teeth whitening strips require other steps or seem difficult to use, try another brand.
If you have sensitive teeth or gums, look for products that will give you the least amount of sensitivity. Oftentimes, hydrogen peroxide is too strong for sensitive teeth, so try coconut oil, instead. Don’t suffer through a product if it burns your gums or hurts your teeth.
Most strips require at least 30 minutes of wear in order to get the best results. If you have sensitive teeth or not enough time for teeth whitening strips, look for products that don’t require much wear.
"Over-the-counter teeth whitening strips contain low to moderate concentration of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide gel. The peroxide penetrates the tooth enamel to break down stain molecules," explains Sandip Sachar, DDS, who has been practicing general and cosmetic dentistry in Midtown Manhattan, NYC, for over 20 years. "Whitening strips often include advanced adhesives that keep the strip and peroxide in close contact with the teeth. They can gently lighten the tooth color after repeated applications. Typically, it takes 5-14 daily applications to achieve satisfactory results."
After about a week of daily use, according to Man, most people start seeing their teeth get noticeably whiter.
"Generally, yes, but they’re not right for everyone," answers Man. "The FDA regulates these products, and many have the American Dental Association’s seal of approval. However, people with certain dental conditions like cavities, gum disease or very sensitive teeth should check with their dentist first. Even healthy teeth can become sensitive during whitening."
Man states that problems tend to occur when people are unaware of underlying dental issues or don't follow the product directions. "If you experience persistent pain or sensitivity, stop using them and see your dentist," she advises.
According to Sachar, DIY products can be riskier. "These include products that contain chlorine dioxide or sodium chlorite, which can thin enamel and increase the risk of tooth decay," she says. "These are not ADA-approved ‘natural’ or ‘fast-acting’ whitening products, and I do not recommend them as they are not safe."
"It’s like comparing a professional car wash to doing it yourself in the driveway," states Man. "Professional whitening uses stronger bleaching agents and gives you dramatic results in just one or two visits. Plus, if something goes wrong, your dentist is right there to fix it. They can also customize the treatment for your specific needs and address any sensitivity issues immediately. Strips are the DIY option that costs way less and lets you whiten while binge-watching Netflix. The downside? It takes longer to see results, and you might end up with some uneven spots if your teeth aren’t perfectly straight.”
Sachar provides the following advantages and disadvantages for each type of treatment:
Advantages of at-home whitening strips:
• More affordable than professional in-office treatments.
• Convenient and easier to use on your own schedule.
• Gradual whitening allows for subtle changes over time instead of quick one-day whitening.
• Reduced risk of sensitivity.
Disadvantages of at-home whitening strips:
• Lower peroxide concentrations mean slower and less dramatic results.
• Strips may not fit perfectly, which can lead to uneven whitening, especially between the teeth or along the gumline.
• Greater chances of improper use resulting in adverse side effects, such as leaving them on too long.
Advantages of professional teeth whitening:
• Fast and dramatic results in just one or two visits.
• Custom trays that fit the teeth exactly are sometimes included for continued home whitening or touch-ups.
• Protection for the gums to prevent sensitivity.
• Supervised by a professional, reducing the risk of misuse or complications.
• Professional in-office peroxide concentrations with enhanced activation using LED or laser light can produce a more dramatic and fast result.
Disadvantages of professional teeth whitening:
• Significantly higher cost.
• May cause temporary tooth sensitivity in some patients.
• Less convenient, requiring scheduling and attending a dental visit.
"For patients that have more sensitive teeth, I advise them to use whitening strips with a lower peroxide concentration, or that contain desensitizing agents like potassium nitrate or fluoride," advises Sachar. "I recommend patients with sensitive teeth start using toothpaste for sensitive teeth, fluoride toothpaste or fluoride rinse, 1-2 weeks prior to whitening. I advise them also to space out the treatments with longer times between treatments. I advise them to avoid strips with harsh flavorings or containing unnecessary acids that can irritate the teeth and gums. Look for 'gentle' formulas like ‘Crest 3D White Gentle Routine.'"
According to Man, you should take a break and call your dentist if "your teeth start feeling like they’re getting electric shocks."
Start with a dental checkup: "I always recommend starting with a dental checkup before any whitening routine," recommends Man. "Your dentist can spot potential issues and help you choose the safest, most effective approach for your specific situation.“
Follow directions closely: "Regardless of the product used, technique matters," says Sachar. "I advise patients to brush gently before applying the strips to make sure the teeth are plaque-free and avoid food and drinks that stain teeth for 24-48 hours after whitening. I recommend always following the instructions closely, including never exceeding the recommended frequency or duration."
Wait to brush after whitening: "After whitening, always wait at least 30 minutes before brushing to allow enamel to re-harden and reduce the risk of abrasion or sensitivity," advises Sachar. "Brushing too soon can damage the temporarily softened enamel and irritate gums."
Note that some discoloration may require in-office treatment: “While whitening strips can be effective for many people, professional whitening often provides more predictable and longer-lasting results," Man states. "Strips work great for everyday stains from food and drinks, but some types of discoloration from medications or other causes may need professional treatment."
Crest 3D Whitestrips are widely considered the most effective teeth whitening strips due to their Advanced Seal Technology, which keeps them securely in place for better contact with teeth. They use a high concentration of hydrogen peroxide -- the same whitening agent used by dentists -- to remove both surface and deep stains while being enamel-safe.
Show moreAccording to the American Dental Association, it is recommended to use only over-the-counter bleaching kits with the ADA Seal of Acceptance. These include Crest White Strips.
Show moreYou can brush before applying teeth whitening strips. Brushing and flossing before doing so will remove plaque and create a cleaner canvas. It's advised to wait 30 minutes after brushing to use whitening strips.
Show moreIf you have healthy teeth and good oral health, using a reputable teeth whitening strip should be fine when used as directed. Teeth whitening products are only meant to be used occasionally and in moderation, and it's always a better idea to speak with your dentist first about finding the best option for you. Additionally, steer clear of teeth whitening strips that contain chlorine dioxide.
People who need dental work or have tooth pain should consult with their dentist to find out if teeth whitening is right for them.
Show moreOver-the-counter teeth whitening strips may not be powerful enough for very stained teeth. If you're looking for exceptional results for yellow teeth, consult your dentist.
Show moreThe negatives of teeth whitening strips include possible tooth and gum sensitivity. If you use teeth whitening strips too often, it may cause temporary enamel dehydration and sensitivity, and some of the results might not be the exact shade you imagine.
Show more"When used properly, whitening strips do not damage or weaken tooth enamel," says Sachar. "However, excessive use or overlapping treatments without a proper break between them can contribute to temporary enamel dehydration and sensitivity ... Some non-ADA-approved ‘natural’ or ‘fast-acting’ whitening products can contain chlorine dioxide or sodium chlorite, which can thin enamel and increase the risk of tooth decay."
Show more"Most people stay happy with their results for about six months to a year, but your habits make a huge difference," explains Man. "If you’re someone who can’t function without coffee or loves a good glass of red wine, your teeth will pick up new stains faster. Smokers see their results fade even quicker. The good news is that touch-up treatments work really well to keep your smile bright.”
Sachar adds that proper oral hygiene habits can help you maintain the whitening results longer.
Show more"Strips won’t hurt your veneers, crowns or fillings, but here’s the catch: they won’t whiten them either," says Man. "Only your natural teeth will get lighter, which can leave you with a patchwork smile where some teeth are bright white and others haven’t budged. If you have a lot of dental work, definitely chat with your dentist before whitening so you don’t end up with mismatched teeth.”
Sachar adds, "Repeated or prolonged exposure to peroxide may dull the luster of some composite or resin restorations over time."
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I spent months testing products for brighter teeth – here are the ones that impressed us the most
Our Top PicksTeeth whitening is one of the most common at-home beauty treatments. Teeth discolouration is never fun and can affect people’s confidence, caused by drinking tea, coffee, juice and wine. It can even be a side effect of some medicines.
Many people go to their dentist for a spot of teeth whitening, but this can be pretty expensive. If you’re on a budget or don’t have the time for a trip to the dentist, you’ll be glad to hear that there are some quick and easy DIY teeth whitening kits available to use at home.
However, here in the UK, teeth whitening kits are strictly regulated. Hydrogen peroxide is the most common ingredient in teeth whitening kits, but it can cause sensitivity issues, so it’s regulated in the UK. That means that British teeth whitening kits aren’t as powerful as kits sold in the rest of the world.
In fact, according to cosmetic dentist Dr Sahil Patel, “Over-the-counter kits in the UK can only have up to 0.1 per cent hydrogen peroxide, while US kits often contain much higher concentrations (sometimes up to six per cent, or more).” While professional in-dentist treatments are always an option for deep discolouration, Dr Patel says that at-home formulas can be “effective for surface stains”.
The question is: which at-home teeth whitening kits are worth your time and money? There are dozens of kits on the market, each with different formulas, application methods, and price points. I set out to track down the best teeth whitening kits, from gels to powders and everything in between.
After researching whitening strips, pens, toothpaste and more, I got to work testing a range of teeth whitening kits to see if they could banish surface stains from coffee, juice and tea. Keep scrolling for my full review and verdict.
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My Sweet Smile’s dentist-approved teeth whitening powder gave me results within two weeks
After reviewing negative customer feedback and narrowing down my selection of whitening products, I tested a shortlist of treatments over several months. I followed each brand’s guidelines and tailored my use to their instructions. I didn’t take ‘before and after’ photos during testing because, as my teeth became progressively whiter after testing consecutive products, the photos might have made the results of the first test appear better than they actually were. In reality, the first product I tested had more stains to work with, which made its initial effect seem more noticeable. For each formula, I paid attention to comfort (including teeth sensitivity), ease of use and, of course, effectiveness.
As a beauty writer, my years in product reviewing have left me well-informed about oral hygiene and dental aesthetics. When it came to assessing the best teeth whitening kits, I sought advice from an experienced dentist, combining his advice with real-world testing to find the formulas that are worth your time and money.
This LED kit offers great value for money, with enough formula for 30 treatments. It boasts three times more ‘activator’ lights than competitors and, while I can neither confirm nor deny this claim (the exact number hasn’t been stated), I was pleased to learn of the triple LED functionality. The blue light aims to break down stains by speeding up the PAP (phthalimidoperoxycaproic acid) oxidisation process, while the brand claims that the red light will boost comfort by minimising bacteria, gum inflammation and tooth sensitivity. Users can even combine the red and blue lights at once.
Using the kit is as simple as applying the formula to your teeth, inserting the mouth tray, and activating your chosen light setting for 10-30 minutes. The mouth tray is comfortable to wear and, while the full 30 minutes is a bit of a jaw workout, the brand claims you’ll see results after seven days of 10-minute treatments, too. In fact, I saw my teeth getting brighter (judging by the shade guide included) after just one 30-minute session. My one gripe? Even the slightest nudge to the touch-activated power button will turn off the device.
Read the full Smilepro advanced teeth whitening kit review
If you’ve ever seen social media marketing for Hismile’s colour corrector serum, you might be intrigued by its promise of instant whitening. I’m pleased to confirm that the serum works instantly, but it doesn’t have a long-lasting effect.
I tested it on one side of my mouth to see if I could detect any difference in tone between the left and right halves. After just a couple of minutes of working the product onto my teeth with a cotton swab, it was clear the side with the serum had brightened.
However, the next morning, my teeth had returned to normal, and both sides were back to the same shade of white. I also found that working the serum into every tooth for 30 seconds – as Hismile recommends – required quite a bit of arm work and around seven minutes of application in total - and that’s just for all your visible teeth.
For a night out or a special occasion, this colour corrector could be a great option. If you’re looking to do away with years of staining, this might not be the product for you.
I loved this brand’s LED mouthguard. It features everything from magnetic charging to easy ‘clench-free’ positioning, and it sits comfortably around your teeth and gums so you don’t need to strain your jaw to hold everything in place.
Whitening with this kit can be broken into four parts. Firstly, you apply the self-adhering whitening strips to the upper and lower teeth. After inserting the mouthguard, you then activate the LED function, which will operate for 10 minutes in a blue light mode (for accelerated whitening). Once the blue light times out, you can begin five minutes of gum health-boosting red light. Lastly, after leaving the strips in place for another 15 minutes, you can touch up with the included pen. This stage is designed to be used as an intermediary top-up after the 10-day treatment, but I did give it a go throughout the process, too.
After just one day of using this kit, I could see some patches looked whiter and, after the full 10 days of treatment, my teeth certainly lifted in colour by a shade or two. Admittedly, I don’t think the pen made a noticeable difference, and I found it hard to follow the brand’s ‘don’t swallow’ advice when actively swiping the pen across all my teeth. Additionally, I found the whitening strips, while non-slippy, for easy application, adhered to my teeth a bit too well, which made removing them a little uncomfortable.
On the whole, I found this kit effectively whitened my teeth, and the addition of the red light feature to reduce sensitivity was a bonus for my ice cream-averse front teeth.
Gleam’s teeth whitening strips proved a fuss-free, budget-friendly option that still delivered noticeable results. Unlike many straight-cut strip designs, these come shaped to fit the natural curve of your teeth (specifically the bottom ones), so coverage is more thorough and crevice-to-crevice. The strips stay in place for the full 30-minute session, letting you multitask without worry.
After around five days of use, there was a clear improvement in overall brightness, particularly near my gum line and between my teeth – areas where other strips have struggled. Though the removal process was a little sticky, any residue left behind was quickly rinsed away with water or mouthwash.
With 14 treatments in a single pack, no LED gadgetry required, and an impressively even whitening result, Gleam’s strips are a strong contender for anyone after an easy, effective upgrade to their smile.
Read my full Gleam review now
Though I found this kit the least enjoyable to use, it was also the most effective. You apply a clear serum to dry teeth (which requires tissue and some serious grimacing while you hold your lips back) before using an LED shield for 10 minutes.
However, the whole process was uncomfortable. You have to clench your jaw to keep the LED shield in place, and I often had to adjust it. The process needs to be repeated twice daily after brushing your teeth, which is a little inconvenient, and it leaves a plastic film on the surface of your teeth. The brand says that you only need to rinse your mouth with water afterwards, but I found that it clings to your teeth. Every time I used this kit, I had to brush my teeth a second time to get rid of the serum.
That sounds like a lot of faff, but I can’t deny the effectiveness of the product. My teeth appeared brighter and whiter after just a couple of treatments, and, with the kit often on offer for less than £50, I think it’s worth the hassle. Just make sure you’ve got two weeks in which you can squeeze the daily 20-minute treatments.
Much like Spotlight’s LED mouthguard, this Icy Bear device is easy to wear, and the charge lasts for the full seven-day treatment. The application process is simple. All you have to do is inject one-third of a gel syringe in total across the top and bottom portions of the tray. After that, pop the tray in your mouth, activate the 10-minute LED treatment and sit for 10 to 20 minutes while the gel works its magic.
When you remove the mouthguard, you can see immediately that your teeth are glowing from the light-scattering titanium dioxide. This makes it a good choice if you want to brighten your teeth before an event.
However, the effect is only temporary. My teeth lifted a shade between days one and seven, but the gel tended to sink to the bottom of the tray, so I don’t think the colour difference was as intense as it could have been.
The final 10 minutes of wearing the tray may cause your jaw to clamp up, but the fact that the mouthguard can be separated from the battery pack makes this easy to clean. Overall, I think this kit is well-priced for what it offers, as I saw results over a relatively short period.
For cleanliness obsessives, MySweetSmile’s powder is a no-brainer addition to your daily dental routine. It’s designed for a brightened clean rather than a deep-bleaching overhaul, namely because it does not use peroxide. Instead, it’s packed with cleaning agents like calcium carbonate and pentasodium triphosphate. These help lift surface stains and remove plaque buildup. The result? A noticeably fresher, more brilliant finish after just one use.
Used a few times a week (as I did) in tandem with your usual brushing, this powder adds only a couple of minutes to your regimen with near-immediate effects. It’s almost like a photo filter for your smile. Over an extended period, I found that the cumulative polishing effect can give teeth a cleaner, glossier look long-term.
Flavour-wise, it’s inoffensive but forgettable. Think: faint spearmint or the tail-end of chewing gum. Then again, given how easy and quick it is to use, that’s hardly a dealbreaker. If you're after a safe, non-sensitive way to dial up the dazzle, this is a solid pick for daily upkeep.
Renowned for its LED face mask, Currentbody also has an LED whitening kit. Having tested the brand’s series one, two, and anti-blemish face masks, I’m well acquainted with its expertise in all things red, near-infrared and blue light – and it’s these wavelengths that make Currentbody’s whitening approach unique.
While the red and near-infrared light frequencies lower sensitivity by boosting cell renewal and healing, the blue light is designed to tackle oral bacteria to minimise bad breath. Together with the PAP (phthalimidoperoxycaproic acid), the kit is simultaneously tough on stains and gentle on enamel and gums. For me, Currentbody’s mouth tray was the comfiest I’ve tried, and the six-day use time wasn’t too long. Admittedly, 20 minutes is quite a long time to keep the device in your mouth but, given it’s wireless, it’s no hassle to watch TV or load a dishwasher while wearing it.
At the end of the testing period, the whiteness of my teeth had improved, and my results were similar to those on the brand’s website. The brilliance of the white had certainly been boosted, but the shade difference was fairly subtle. The kit includes enough gel doses for 12 sessions, so you can complete another full cycle further down the line.
This set includes both whitening strips and a whitening pen, so it’s excellent value. You get two products for less than the kits in most of this guide.
The no-frills whitening strips are hassle-free. There’s no recharging, and you don’t need to play dentist with a collection of syringes. Simply apply two strips – one for the top row and one for the bottom row of teeth – and you’re good to go. That said, applying the bottom strip can be tricky, as saliva may cause it to dissolve too quickly. I also found I couldn’t talk without worrying about disturbing the gel. On the bright side, the pleasant mint flavour eliminates the need for rinsing after application.
As for the whitening pen, I used it at night and noticed a visible improvement in the brightness of my teeth by morning. However, the effect was more of a temporary glow rather than a lasting change.
Long-term, I found the strips prevented dulling and gave my teeth an enhanced shine. That said, they might not be the best choice for those with deep-set stains from years of smoking or drinking coffee.
This teeth whitening trio offers a sleek approach to oral health and aesthetics, targeting bad breath, food stains and mouth sensitivity. Created by Dr Mahsa Shoaie, it’s designed as a follow-up treatment to “enhance” and “maintain” results from her in-chair whitening procedure at her clinic, Nejati. However, I used this one as a standalone kit.
As someone prone to dehydration – and the bad breath that comes with it – I enlisted my partner to help monitor any stale or sour mouth odours while I tested Mahsa’s oral serum pen and LED (red light mode) kit. Though not the most glamorous task, he was pleased to report no foul odours, even after I had coffee, which is usually the culprit.
Thanks to the charcoal in the toothpaste, the kit provides an instant whitening boost by absorbing surface stains from things such as red wine and curry. The combination of a whitening pen and blue LED is key for more stubborn discolouration.
The blue light is meant to speed up the hydrogen peroxide, breaking down stains, and, although I’ve experienced sensitivity from hydrogen peroxide in the past, I didn’t have any discomfort with Mahsa’s formula. This is likely due to the low concentration (0.1 per cent), which also explains the subtle results. Overall, Mahsa’s kit provided a gentle but effective approach. However, it’s expensive.
Teeth whitening kits can include whitening pens, powders, gels and strips. Strips are applied straight onto your teeth after you’ve brushed them, while powders can be applied with a toothbrush. Alternatively, whitening pens are portable and easy to use when you’re on the go. Some whitening treatments will come with a mouth tray and an LED light, which helps to speed up the whitening effect.
Hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide are common active ingredients because of their bleaching effect on teeth. While at-home kits contain lower concentrations of peroxide than teeth whitening treatments from dentists, some people may be wary of the risks of using peroxide at home.
These can include issues around sensitivity, which are caused by damage to the tooth enamel. If you want to go peroxide-free, consider formulas with other active ingredients, such as phthalimidoperoxycaproic acid, pentasodium triphosphate, sodium chlorite or coconut oil, among others.
To ensure your at-home teeth whitening is safe, follow the directions carefully. Don’t leave the solution on longer than the brand advises, as this may irritate gums. If so, stop the treatment. It’s also recommended that pregnant or breastfeeding women should not use teeth whitening kits.
Activated charcoal is a less synthetic solution than hydrogen peroxide. However, some sources say charcoal’s abrasive texture could wear down tooth enamel, so while it can whiten teeth, it can also damage them.
The amount of time it will take to whiten teeth will depend on the product and the amount of staining on your teeth. With most solutions, you’ll notice a difference after two weeks.
You can top up your whitening when you feel the initial effect has started to fade. How long this will take depends on your diet and dental care. Always check the instructions on the package, as each kit is different, and overuse of whitening kits can cause tooth sensitivity, inflamed gums and enamel erosion.
These kits use light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to emit ultraviolet and infrared light. These lights, particularly UV light, activate teeth whitening agents – gels, for example – and are said to make them work faster. So, while the LED itself doesn’t whiten teeth, Dr Patel says “it helps speed up the whitening process”.
Teeth whitening strips work, but Dr Patel says “The results depend on the brand and how stained your teeth are to begin with.” He explained that while peroxide-based strips can brighten teeth over time, he warns that “They’re usually more effective for surface stains, rather than deep discolouration.”
Across both LED and strip-based teeth whitening, Dr Patel agrees that opting for a reputable brand and following its guidelines is crucial. “Some kits contain stronger whitening agents that could cause irritation or sensitivity, especially if used too often. It’s good to start slow,” he says.
Many things cause teeth staining. Dr Patel warns against:
• Tea and coffee – “Tannins in these drinks stick to enamel and cause yellowing.”
• Red wine – “The deep colour and acidity can stain teeth over time.”
• Smoking – “Nicotine and tar turn teeth yellow and brown.”
• Sugary and acidic foods – “These weaken enamel, making teeth more prone to staining.”
• Poor oral hygiene – “If plaque builds up, stains can set in more easily.”
• Ageing – “Enamel naturally wears down over time, making the yellowish dentin underneath more visible.”
Annoyingly, you need to be careful after teeth whitening, confirms Patel. “After whitening, your teeth are more porous, so it’s best to avoid stain-causing foods and drinks (like coffee, tea, red wine, and curry) for at least 24-48 hours. Stick to lighter-coloured foods like chicken, rice, and dairy, if you want to be extra careful.”
Overall, Smilepro’s LED and pen kit emerged as the best teeth whitening product, offering great value and effectiveness. Spotlight Oral Care’s strips and LED kit came in a close second, delivering noticeable results at a slightly higher price. For an affordable and quick solution, Colgate’s max white treatment was a strong contender. Meanwhile, Hismile provided an instant glow, and Icy Bear gave a pearly white finish, although neither kit led to a dramatic difference or long-lasting brightness.
Want to add extra oomph to your smile? These are the best teeth whitening toothpastes
For more information, please visit orange oil teeth whitening.