The Best Teeth Whitening Kits, According To Experts And Staffers (2024)

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Taylor Lane

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Jane Sung

Forbes Staff

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Whitening your teeth using an at-home product is a convenient and affordable alternative to going to the dentist’s office. According to dentists, the best teeth whitening kits are user-friendly and offer fast, professional-quality results, like our top pick the Ultradent Opalescence Go. These versions for home use come in many forms, including LED mouthpieces, strips and trays, and some are specifically formulated for sensitive teeth.

Dentists recommend shopping for treatments that include active ingredients like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which help to diminish stains. “Hydrogen peroxide is the main ingredient in most tooth whitening products; this or carbamide peroxide act as bleaching agents to change the color of teeth,” says dentist and If Your Mouth Could Talk author Dr. Kami Hoss. “Peroxide can partially penetrate the layers of teeth, removing compounds that cause discoloration.”

Read on for the best teeth whitening kits that are safe and effective, plus tips on how to use them, according to experts. When you’re done, see our stories on the top electric toothbrushes and water flossers—both based on rigorous testing—to round out your oral care routine.

Best Teeth Whitening Kit Overall

A Set Of Pre-Filled Trays For Easy Whitening

Ultradent Opalescence Go

Type: Tray | Active ingredient: 10% hydrogen peroxide | Usage directions: 15 to 30 minutes daily

The Opalescence Go is an easy-to-use system that’s available in two strengths—10% hydrogen peroxide and 15% hydrogen peroxide—to suit different needs. NYC-based dentist Dr. Sharon Huang finds it perfect for at-home use. “It’s strong enough to be effective, but not too strong that it will make teeth sensitive or cause harm when used as instructed,” she says.

Los Angeles-based dentist Dr. Lawrence Fung also prefers this system over other options. “I like the Opalescence Go versus some of the other brands, as its whitening gels not only include hydrogen peroxide but also potassium nitrate, which helps desensitize the teeth,” he says. For best results the trays should be worn for 15 to 30 minutes daily over the course of 5 to 7 days.

What the reviews say: “I used to have trays filled by my dentist years ago for a few hundred dollars. The Go kit works just as well for a much lower price,” writes one Amazon customer. “My teeth were noticeably whiter after the first two treatments.”

Pros:

  • Easy to use
  • Allows you to experiment with various strengths

Cons:

  • Some find the single line of gel doesn’t adequately coat all teeth

Best Teeth Whitening Kit With Fast Results

A Professional-Quality Option

MOST POPULAR

Laughland At-Home Whitening Kit

Type: LED whitening tray |Active ingredient:8% hydrogen peroxide |Usage directions:5 to 30 minutes daily

Laughland’s whitening kit combines professional-grade results with the ease of use at home. It comes with an LED tray that you control via an app on your phone. Once you add some of the included gel formula to the mouthpiece and set it in place, it’s recommended that you use it for a minimum of 5 minutes (and up to 30 minutes, for teeth that are not sensitive), for a duration of 6 days. The best part? According to clinical trials by the brand, 100% of participants had results without any increase in sensitivity.

What our editors say: “I’ve enjoyed using the Laughland teeth whitening kit for several days at a time,” says updates editor Karen Tietjen. “Unlike other teeth whiteners I’ve used, this one gave me no tooth sensitivity during or after treatments, which I really appreciate. It’s also fun to use—just plug the mouthguard into your phone and watch it glow. It’s brightened my teeth after just a few uses. My biggest criticism is that the gel tastes incredibly bitter if you get it on your tongue, but if you’re careful you can avoid it.”

Pros:

  • Fast results
  • Moisturizer in formula helps to protect enamel

Cons:

  • Gel tastes bitter to some

Best Custom Teeth Whitening Kit

A Tailor-Made System Delivered To Your Doorstep

Smile Brilliant Teeth Whitening Trays

Type: Tray | Active ingredient: 22% carbamide peroxide | Usage directions: 45 minutes daily

This system from Smile Brilliant takes the guesswork out of whitening your teeth. “You take molds of your upper and lowerteeth, and the company creates trays that fit yourteeth,” says Huang, who considers it as close as it gets to a customizable take-home whiteningsolution. It comes witha whitening gel made from 22% carbamide peroxide and a syringe for applying the solution to the trays. “If you choose the sensitive option, [Smile Brilliant] will also include desensitizing gel to make the process more pleasant,” she says.

What the reviews say: “I was referred to this from my dentist, who does not do the custom-fitted whitening trays at her office. The process was very simple,” says one Smile Brilliant customer. “I take good care of my teeth and did not realize they were so stained. I’m very happy with the results.”

Pros:

  • Sensitive and non-sensitive options offered
  • Variety of packages available at different price points
  • Highly customizable

Cons:

  • Suggested use time can be longer than other kits

Best Teeth Whitening Kit For Sensitive Teeth

A Plant-Based Kit That’s Gentle On Teeth

Lumineux Teeth Whitening Kit

Type: Strips, toothpaste and mouth wash |Active ingredients:Vegetable glycerol, deionized water, coconut oil, sage oil, citrus lemon peel oil |Usage directions:30 minutes daily

Whitening your smile can be tricky regardless of whether you have sensitive teeth or not; treatments can leave your mouth feeling tender or sore. Peroxide—a key ingredient in many whitening products—is often the culprit for that aching sensation. Lumineux’s kit is peroxide-free, featuring plant-based ingredients including essential oils like sage, lemon, coconut and more. The full set includes whitening strips, toothpaste, a toothbrush and mouthwash—a four-step system to get teeth whiter.

What the reviews say: Reviewers have been impressed with their results. “I have seen so many people post about these teeth whitening strips, so I decided to give them a try myself. I have sensitive teeth and do not use whitening strips for that reason,” one Amazon customer says. “However, these whitening strips have not made my teeth sensitive, but they have made them white.”

Pros:

  • Features plant-based ingredients
  • Less chance of causing sensitivity

Cons:

  • Some found the strips hard to use

Best LED Teeth Whitening Kit

An Option That Delivers Results—Fast

Glo Science Glo Brilliant Personal Teeth Whitening Device Kit

Type: LED whitening tray | Active ingredient: 6% hydrogen peroxide | Usage directions: 8 minutes (4 times per day for 5 days)

New York-based dentist and Park Slope Dentistry Seventh Avenue director Dr. Angelique Freking recommends Glo Science’s whitening device. “This chic kit uses hydrogen peroxide and a tray with LED light built in to brighten your teeth,” she says. Wondering how bright your teeth can go? This system claims to make them up to five shades brighter in as little as one week. Plus, it includes a lip balm to prevent dry, cracked lips.

What the reviews say: “I was skeptical about spending this much money on a teeth whitening kit, but it was worth it. I completed the 5-day suggested treatments and can tell a massive change in the color of my teeth,” says an Amazon reviewer. “My teeth are easily four shades more white than when I started. It’s easy to use and I haven’t had any sensitivity.”

Pros:

  • Short use time (under 10 minutes)
  • Easy to use

Cons:

  • Pricey compared to other options

Best Wireless LED Teeth Whitening Kit

A Convenient Kit You Can Use Anywhere

Boka Rapid Radiance Teeth Whitening Kit

Type: LED whitening tray | Active ingredients: Phthalimido-peroxy-caproic acid (PAP), nano-hydroxyapatite (n-HP) | Usage directions: 15 minutes a day

This rechargeable teeth whitening device from Boka doesn’t need to be plugged in while you’re using it, giving you the freedom to move about as you please. Instead of peroxide, with can cause tooth sensitivity, the serum formula in this kit contains phthalimido-peroxy-caproic acid to break down compounds that cause discoloration. The addition of nano-hydroxyapatite helps minimize tooth sensitivity while rebuilding enamel. According to the Boka website, patients in a clinical trial noticed significantly whiter teeth after one week of daily use.

What the editors say: “After completing this 15-day treatment, I’ve noticed a significant improvement in the shade of my teeth. Using the provided mouthpiece was uncomplicated, and I’m delighted to share that the whitening pens proved to be sufficient for the entire duration of the treatment,” says home and kitchen editor Sholeen Damarwala. “Given my heightened teeth sensitivity, I’m particularly grateful for the peroxide-free whitening ingredients in the gel, as they were gentle and caused no discomfort.”

Pros:

  • Wireless design
  • Strengthens enamel

Cons:

  • PAP-based formulas haven’t been tested as much as peroxide-based formulas

Best Teeth Whitening Strips

A Dependable Drugstore Favorite You Can Use On The Go

Crest 3D White Professional Effects White Strips

Type: Strips | Active ingredient: Hydrogen peroxide | Usage directions: 30 to 60 minutes daily

It doesn’t have to be inconvenient or expensive to whiten your teeth like a professional. Crest’s 3D White Strips are affordable and portable, making teeth look brighter after one 60-minute treatment and up to 18 shades whiter in 20 days. The kit includes 20 mess-free whitening strips coated in hydrogen peroxide. The best part is that they cling to your teeth and stay put, so you can go about your day as usual.

What our staffers say: “I’ve given them a go on a few separate occasions,” says managing editor Emmy Favilla. “They produce noticeable results, and quickly. I’d say within 10 to 12 days, I tend to already see a slight difference in terms of the shade of my teeth.” She does, however, suggest taking it slow if you tend to experience tooth sensitivity. “After just a few uses my teeth became sensitive to things like cold drinks. If you tend to have sensitive teeth, tread lightly,” she says.

For similar fast results but with less irritation, account manager Blaire Tiernan recommends the sensitive version of the White Strips. “I recently switched to these, and I have noticed my teeth are significantly less sensitive compared to when I use the regular strips,” she says.

Pros:

  • Fast results
  • Affordable

Cons:

  • Not ideal for those with sensitive teeth

Best Teeth Whitening Pen

A Powerful Formula That's Easy To Apply

Auraglow Teeth Whitening Pen

Type: Pen | Active ingredient: 35% carbamide peroxide | Usage directions: 60 seconds, twice daily

Auraglow’s teeth whitening pen contains a formula with the highest concentration of carbamide peroxide on this list, making it a great option for those who want quick results. Application is easy: Use the brush tip to coat your teeth with the gel, and let it sit for about a minute. Avoid eating or drinking for the next hour, as the gel dissolves on its own. This pen is great for touch-ups, as you can choose to only coat certain teeth instead of your whole mouth. Plus its compact size makes it easy to maintain your teeth whitening efforts while traveling.

What the reviews say: “This incredible product has truly transformed my smile. Its convenient design makes application a breeze, and I’ve noticed a visible improvement in the whiteness of my teeth in just a short period of time,” says one Amazon customer. “Not only is it effective, but it’s also gentle on my teeth, which is a big plus.”

Pros:

  • Fast results
  • Great for touch-ups
  • Portable

Cons:

  • Not ideal for sensitive teeth

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Why Trust Forbes Vetted

As users of at-home teeth whitening kits and products, the Forbes Vetted staffers and contributors who have written, updated and edited this list have ample experience on the topic (as well as plenty of other beauty and grooming categories). This article has been overseen by senior beauty editor Jane Sung, who has covered lifestyle and wellness topics for well over a decade. We also consulted with a few experts to gain more insights: NYC-based dentist Dr. Sharon Huang, Los Angeles-based dentist Dr. Lawrence Fung, Park Slope Dentistry Seventh Avenue director Dr. Angelique Freking and dentist Dr. Kami Hoss, who authored the book If Your Mouth Could Talk.

This story is regularly reviewed and updated to provide the most current and accurate information possible. In its most recent November 2023 update, beauty writer Claire Epting added two new products: the Boka Rapid Radiance Teeth Whitening Kit and the Auraglow Teeth Whitening Pen.

How We Chose The Best Teeth Whitening Kits

When selecting the top teeth whitening kits, we first checked with doctors Huang, Fung, Freking and Hong to get their firsthand insights and recommendations. Forbes Vetted staffers, too, chimed in with their personal favorites. We ensured that we only included formulas with safe, dentist-approved active ingredients, such as hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide. In addition, we looked for highly rated products—every pick on this list has an average customer rating of at least 4 out of 5 stars. (While the Boka website doesn’t currently feature any customer reviews, we opted to include its teeth whitening kit because of its useful wireless feature as well as Vetted editor Sholeen Damarwala’s tested recommendation) Finally, we made sure the selected products accommodate various types of teeth, lifestyle factors and preferences.

What To Consider When Shopping For The Best Teeth Whitening Kits

At-home teeth whitening kits come in many forms, so it’s a good idea to research the different types before buying one. To find the product that’s right for you, dentists recommend paying close attention to a few key details.

Ingredients

Hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide are two of the most common ingredients recommended by dentists for whitening teeth. “They can be quite effective and safe when used in the right way,” says Huang. “They are made up of water, oxygen and radicals. The reaction from these free radicals lift stains from teeth and make them appear whiter.” However, those with very sensitive teeth might feel more comfortable taking a peroxide-free approach, with products like the Lumineux or Boka teeth whitening kits.

Concentration

The stronger the peroxide concentration in a formula, the more effectively the product will remove discoloration from teeth. According to Hoss, most over-the-counter products feature a range in concentration from 3% to 10%, while dental professionals typically offer treatments with concentrations up to 40%. This means you may need to be more patient with at-home treatments, as they may require more frequent usage before you see noticeable results.

Type

There are a few different options when it comes to application: molded trays that sit over your teeth, simple mouthpieces with built-in LED lights, strips that adhere to your teeth and pens filled with gels that coat your teeth. Whitening trays are user-friendly and not as likely to bother sensitive teeth, but if you’re opposed to the idea of having a large piece of plastic in your mouth for 30 or more minutes, strips or pens will be your best options.

What Is The Best Kit For Whitening Teeth?

There were several top contenders when assembling this list of teeth whitening kits, but there was one that stood out to our team. The Ultradent Opalescence Go earns our best overall spot since it has an effective formula that is suitable for most users, including those with sensitive teeth. It also comes highly recommended by dentists Huang and Fung. For those who prefer a customizable system, Huang recommends the tailor-made plan from Smile Brilliant, which takes a mold of your teeth and is also available in a sensitive option.

What Is The Fastest At-Home Teeth Whitening Kit?

Many top teeth whitening products are designed to deliver results in as little as a week, sometimes less. The recommended duration for our best overall pick, the tray-style Ultradent Opalescence Go, is 5 to 7 days; the Laughland At-Home Whitening Kit delivers results in 6 days and Glo Science’s device takes only 5 days to whiten teeth (but keep in mind, this requires four 8-minute applications each day).

Regarding application, many of these at-home treatments can be completed in as little as 30 minutes a day. If you’re really pressed for time, the Auraglow Teeth Whitening Pen only requires around 60 seconds to apply.

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The Best Teeth Whitening Kits, According To Experts And Staffers (2024)

FAQs

What is the number 1 recommended teeth whitening? ›

The Crest Whitening Emulsion with LED Light stands out as the best overall teeth whitening product due to its ease of use, effectiveness, and comfort. Its simple, straightforward process, coupled with the ability to carry on with normal activities during treatment, makes it highly convenient and user-friendly.

What teeth whitening kits actually work? ›

The Best Teeth Whitening Kits, According to Dentists
  • OpalescenceGo Prefilled Teeth Whitening Trays, Set of 10. ...
  • Burst Prefilled Whitening Trays, Set of 3. ...
  • PhilipsZoom NiteWhite Kit, Set of 3. ...
  • Dr. ...
  • Colgate Optic White ComfortFit Teeth Whitening Kit. ...
  • Auraglow Teeth Whitening Kit. ...
  • Crest3D Whitestrips, Pack of 22.
Sep 20, 2023

What do most dentists use for teeth whitening? ›

Carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide are commonly used in whitening interventions and can readily permeate dental hard tissues. Temporary tooth sensitivity and gingival inflammation are the most common adverse effects of vital tooth whitening.

What is the most effective teeth whitening method? ›

Option #1: In-Office Laser Whitening

This is one of the popular teeth whitening methods that some people believe is the most effective way to get a brighter smile. Using lasers and peroxide-based whitening agents in a professional setting, this teeth whitening method provides dramatic, lasting results.

What is the least damaging way to whiten your teeth? ›

Baking Soda: As long as you are careful to brush gently, baking soda can eliminate stains from the surface of your teeth without damaging them. Whitening Strips: Whitening strips mold to the shape of your teeth to whiten them. Whitening strips are both safe and effective.

What is the safest and most effective teeth whitening? ›

Overuse or misuse of teeth-whitening products can cause sensitivity, gum irritation, and other side effects. Custom-fitted trays and in-office treatments are the safest and most effective ways to whiten teeth. ADA-approved over-the-counter toothpastes, gels, and strips are more affordable and convenient options.

Is there a home teeth whitening that really works? ›

If you don't have whitening trays and want as close to professional results as possible, the Opalescence Go 15% is the way to go. Like Crest 3D Whitestrips, the whitening gel comes in ready-made trays that adapt to your teeth all the way to your molars.

Do any teeth whitening products actually work? ›

There are two types, two versions of peroxide, hydrogen peroxide, and carbamide peroxide, that are used for whitening. And they are effective. They do work. So if the whitening kit you're using lists that product, you can rest assured that it will be effective.

Does baking soda really whiten teeth? ›

Baking soda has been proven to be a smart choice to whiten your teeth but isn't a fix-all for your dental health. Be sure to practice a full oral care routine and consult with your dental professional if you're considering using whitening products.

How to whiten teeth over 60? ›

Swap your regular toothpaste for whitening toothpaste, and you can notice your teeth gradually lighten with prolonged use. Whitening toothpaste typically contains a low-concentrated bleach solution. This helps minimize the appearance of stains on your smile.

Does swishing hydrogen peroxide whiten teeth? ›

When used carefully, it can be an effective way to whiten your teeth. But if used incorrectly — in concentrations that are too high or if used too often — it can cause serious and sometimes expensive tooth damage. If you choose to whiten your teeth with hydrogen peroxide, do so cautiously.

Can yellow teeth become white again? ›

What Can Be Done to Whiten Yellow Teeth? If you're looking for a radical change in the coloring of your teeth, you need professional-grade whitening to get the job done. Your cosmetic dentist can provide treatment that penetrates deep into the enamel and removes years of stains with a powerful bleaching agent.

How do celebrities whiten their teeth? ›

To do this, a cosmetic dentist might target the size, shape, alignment, or whiteness of the patient's teeth. For celebrity-level whiteness, cosmetic dentists will usually use one of three different procedures: professional whitening treatments, veneers, or crowns.

How to whiten teeth in 2 minutes? ›

Just mix a teaspoon of baking powder and a teaspoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice and brush your teeth with the paste this mixture will work wonders in just two minutes.

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