Over time, your teeth may lose their brightness. Coffee, smoking, dark foods, or simply aging can gradually discolor enamel. Whatever the reason, you can get that bright, white smile back again. All it takes is the best teeth whitener for your needs and a little bit of time.
Our Top Picks: The Best Teeth Whiteners
- Snow All-In-One Whitening Kit: 4.5 stars. Snow is making waves in the teledentistry world with its quick and effective whitening solutions.
- AuraGlow Teeth Whitening Kit: 3.5 stars.
- GLO Brilliant Teeth Whitening Kit: 3.5 stars.
- Crest 3D Whitestrips Glamorous White: 3 stars.
- Crest 3D Whitestrips Sensitive Teeth Whitening Kit: 3 stars.
- Zimba Whitening Strips: 3 stars.
- Colgate Optic White FlexLight LED Kit: 3 stars.
- Candid Whitening Foam: 2.5 stars.
Review Section: What Is the Best Teeth Whitener?
Snow All-In-One Whitening Kit Whitening – Best Overall
| Feature | Description | Star Rating |
| Price | At $150, this premium kit includes a mouthpiece, offering convenience and professional-level whitening at home. | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5) |
| Peroxide Content | Regular: 6–10% Extra Strength: 12–18% | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (5/5) |
| Guarantee | Refund within 30 days, less shipping and restocking fees | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5) |
| LED Light | Both red and blue lights | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) |
| Shipping Cost | Shipping is free over $99 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5) |
Pros:
- Easy to use wands and mouthpiece.
- Free shipping.
- Combines serum and LED treatment.
- Cost can be broken up into payments.
Cons:
- Extra strength serum has high peroxide content.
- Demanding refund/return policy.
Snow is a perfect choice for anyone seeking effective teeth whitening without causing sensitivity. With a balanced formula that contains a lower percentage of carbamide and hydrogen peroxide than some other options, it’s gentler on teeth while still delivering a brighter smile. This makes it ideal for users with mild to moderate sensitivity who want noticeable results without compromising dental health.
If you want to learn more about the Snow teeth whitening kit and see how it works, check it out at trysnow.com.
AuraGlow Teeth Whitening Kit – Best for Quick Results
| Feature | Description | Star Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Price | At $80, AuraGlow sits comfortably in the mid-range price category, offering decent value for its performance. | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5) |
| Peroxide Content | Contains 35% carbamide peroxide gel, providing fast results but potentially causing mild sensitivity for some users. | ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (2/5) |
| Guarantee | Backed by a 60-day full refund policy | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) |
| LED Light | Equipped with a blue LED light to accelerate the whitening process. | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5) |
| Shipping Cost | Free shipping within the U.S. | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5) |
Pros:
- Generous refund policy.
- Built-in treatment timer.
- Wireless, rechargeable LED.
Cons:
- Far higher peroxide content than recommended.
AuraGlow includes the standard at-home teeth whitening system components of two tubes of whitening gel and an LED mouthpiece. The mouthpiece is wireless, rechargeable, and additionally comes with a case for the mouthpiece and a treatment timer.
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), the gel is 35% carbamide peroxide, which is likely to be effective but is also over the recommended percentage by quite a bit. Tooth sensitivity is a possible result.
If you want to learn more about the AuraGlow Teeth Whitening Kit and explore how it compares to other at-home whitening systems, visit auraglow.com
GLO Brilliant Teeth Whitening Kit – Safest Whitening Kit
| Feature | Description | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Price | At $300, Glo’s kit is an expensive option | ⭐⭐☆☆☆(2/5) |
| Peroxide Content | 6% hydrogen peroxide | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆(4/5) |
| Guarantee | Refund within 30 days, less shipping and restocking fees | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆(3/5) |
| LED Light | Blue light technology | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆(3/5) |
| Shipping | Free standard shipping on all domestic US orders – over $75! | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Pros:
- Specialized tube and applicator.
- Warming light to accelerate treatment.
- Free shipping.
- Healthy peroxide percentage.
Cons:
- Wired mouthpiece.
Like many whitening products, Glo’s offering includes a whitening gel and an activating LED mouthpiece. Its teeth whitening gel is milder than some other options, making for a longer treatment, but also one that’s better for your teeth long-term.
The corded mouthpiece is used to heat the gel and speed the chemical reaction, which removes stains. The big selling point is the uniquely designed applicator and included lip treatment.
If you want to learn more and try GLO Brilliant Teeth Whitening, visit: gloscience.com
Crest 3D Whitestrips Glamorous White — Best Whitening Strips
| Feature | Description | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $45 is a lower-cost option | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) |
| Peroxide Content | 9.5% hydrogen peroxide | ⭐⭐☆☆☆☆(2/5) |
| Guarantee | Refund within 60 days | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) |
| LED Light | No lights | ⭐⭐☆☆☆(2/5) |
| Shipping | Free standard shipping | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆(4/5) |
Pros:
- Well-known and respected brand.
- Free shipping.
- 60-day guarantee.
- No trays or gels.
Cons:
- Lower strips are too small.
Unlike some of the other teeth whitening products on this list, Crest isn’t a new brand jumping onto the teledentistry bandwagon. Crest is a well-known brand. Rather than a whitening gel, their product uses convenient teeth whitening strips, which you may find on your local store shelves.
Customers mention that while Crest 3D White Whitestrips are easy to use and effective, unfortunately, the bottom strips are too small and don’t cover all visible teeth. Many users also experienced tooth sensitivity.
If you want to learn more and try Crest 3D Whitestrips, visit: crest.com
Crest 3D Whitestrips Sensitive Teeth Whitening Kit – Best for Sensitive Teeth
| Feature | Description | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Price | A $70 kit is slightly less than average | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆(4/5) |
| Peroxide Content | No data | ⭐☆☆☆☆(1/5) |
| Guarantee | Refund within 60 days | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐(5/5) |
| LED Light | Blue light technology | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆(3/5) |
| Shipping | Free standard shipping | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆(4/5) |
Pros:
- Reliable and well-known brand.
- Free shipping.
- Easy to use strips.
Cons:
- Unknown peroxide content.
Specifically designed for sensitive teeth, this at-home whitening treatment might be a good choice if that’s a concern. However, the amount of hydrogen peroxide in these Crest Whitestrips is unknown so it’s impossible to make an informed choice.
In addition to the teeth whitening strips, the Crest 3D White kit includes an LED light to speed up the whitening process.
If you want to learn more and try Crest 3D Whitestrips Sensitive Teeth Whitening, visit: crest.com
Zimba Whitening Strips – Best Rewards and Deals
| Feature | Description | Star Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $20 for strips (add an LED light for $50) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5) |
| Peroxide Content | 6% hydrogen peroxide | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5) |
| Guarantee | 100% money back, though with stringent requirements | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5) |
| LED Light | Blue light w/Zimba light | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5) |
| Shipping Cost | Shipping free over $50 | ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (2/5) |
Pros:
- Vegan, gluten-free, cruelty-free.
- Range of flavors.
- Coconut oil option.
- Subscription deals and reward points.
Cons:
- Difficult refund requirements.
If you’re interested in making your pearly whites whiter but are worried about animal testing or special diets, Zimba teeth whitening products may be a good option. Their teeth whitening treatment is fairly standard, including strips to whiten your teeth and, optionally, LED lights to speed things up.
Zimba guarantees teeth two shades whiter, though you’ll have to take pictures before and after, as well as meet several other requirements, to get your money back. On the other hand, they offer savings on subscriptions and reward points.
If you want to learn more about Zimba Whitening Strips and explore how it compares to other whitening strips, visit shopzimba.com
Colgate Optic White FlexLight LED Kit – Fastest Whitening Treatment
| Feature | Description | Star Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $110 for one-time treatment, or $94 with a subscription | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5) |
| Peroxide Content | 9% hydrogen peroxide | ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (2/5) |
| Guarantee | Offers a full 30-day refund if purchased direct from Colgate | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5) |
| LED Light | Equipped with an indigo LED light to accelerate the whitening process. | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5) |
| Shipping Cost | Depends on retailer, available in stores | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5) |
Pros:
- Trusted, national brand.
- 10-day treatment.
- Easy to use, hands-free light.
Cons:
- It can’t be used on veneers or implants.
Colgate’s LED whitening system features easy-to-use gel applicators and delivers visible results in just 10 days, faster than many competitors. The kit uses an active oxygen whitening serum powered by Colgate’s patented indigo LED light. However, its higher peroxide concentration may increase the risk of tooth sensitivity.
Learn more or try Colgate Optic White FlexLight LED Kit at colgate.com
Candid Whitening Foam – Best for Use With Aligners
| Feature | Description | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $25, but also the cost of the aligners | ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (2/5) |
| Peroxide Content | 3.8% hydrogen peroxide | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5) |
| Guarantee | Exchange if defective | ⭐☆☆☆☆(1/5) |
| LED Light | No lights | ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (2/5) |
| Shipping | Free standard shipping | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆(4/5) |
Pros:
- Gentle, with low peroxide levels.
- Simple to use.
- Usable overnight.
Cons:
- Only available to Candid Aligner customers.
Candid’s foam is designed to be used with their aligners, either during the day or through the night. Simply add the foam to your aligners and insert them as normal. No whitening gels to worry about. Additionally, the hydrogen peroxide is mild enough to use overnight.
To use the foam with the aligners, however, you have to be using the aligners. The foam isn’t available if you’re not one of Candid’s customers.
For details or to try Candid Whitening Foam, go to candidpro.com
Do Teeth Whitening Products Really Work?
As a dentist, I generally recommend professional in-office whitening for the safest and most predictable results. Clinical whitening allows for customized treatment, stronger formulations, and better protection for your gums and enamel. However, evidence shows that many at-home whitening methods can also be quite effective when used correctly. Products like whitening toothpaste, gels, and LED whitening kits vary in strength and speed, but all can help remove stains and brighten your smile. Most contain carbamide or hydrogen peroxide, the same active ingredients used in dental offices, which work by breaking down surface stains and discoloration. Some also include gentle abrasives and other agents that help polish and protect the teeth.
How Do Whitening Strips Work?
Whitening strips are coated with a whitening gel, which contains a bleaching agent like carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide. Teeth enamel consists of hard material bound by a protein ‘glue’. An organic film called pellicle coats the enamel. Bleaching agents break down those bonds, allowing other compounds to break down stains.
While it may seem like they are useful only for surface stains, strips for whitening can also help with deeper stains.
How Does Whitening Mouthwash Work?
Most whitening mouthwashes use the same bleaching agent as other whitening products, hydrogen peroxide. As with other products, it breaks down the organic coating that forms the stains. However, they might be better used to prevent further stains, rather than removing existing problems.
How Does Coconut Oil Whiten Teeth?
There is no clear evidence that using coconut oil will result in a whiter smile. When studied under scientific circumstances, even mild peroxide whitening treatments resulted in teeth several shades brighter than after using coconut oil, though the oil caused much less tooth sensitivity. On the other hand, it has been shown to reduce plaque and inflammation
How Does Baking Soda Whiten Teeth?
There’s no strong evidence that baking soda does much more than mildly polish surface stains. In fact, while it may help reduce plaque, it’s far less effective than peroxide-based whitening treatments. Plus, because it’s abrasive, overuse could wear down enamel. (For more information, see Healthline’s review on brushing your teeth with baking soda.)
What Causes Teeth to Stain?
Teeth can become discolored for a variety of reasons. Stains may affect the outer enamel or result from damage inside the tooth. Some causes are related to surface staining, while others affect the tooth from within. Generally, younger people tend to have whiter teeth, but staining can increase with age. To learn more about the different types of stains, including intrinsic and extrinsic causes, see this article: Teeth Whitening: Home vs. Professional.
Is Teeth Whitening Safe?
When used as directed, teeth whitening is generally safe. Whitening agents like hydrogen peroxide work by breaking down organic compounds, which may sound concerning, but even stronger formulations are designed for safe use. Most whitening kits, strips, and toothpastes rely on methods similar to those used in professional in-office treatments.
However, there are potential downsides. Whitening can sometimes cause gum irritation, enamel damage, or increased tooth sensitivity. Because peroxide breaks down organic compounds in the mouth, it’s important to choose products that balance effectiveness with gentleness. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) advises against whitening for children until all permanent teeth have fully erupted, typically around ages 14–15.
What Is the Best Way to Whiten Teeth Quickly?
Some teeth whitening products have shorter treatment times, but that usually comes with harsher bleaching agents or higher percentages of hydrogen peroxide. While a teeth whitening kit might quickly remove surface stains, it can also cause sensitivity, damage to enamel, and other problems. A better way to get noticeably whiter teeth might be to visit a cosmetic dentist, also known as aesthetic dentists.
While the best teeth whitening kits may be able to match some in-office treatments, a dentist’s expertise can’t be matched.
What Is the Best Way to Whiten Teeth Without Damaging Enamel?
A dentist can help you find the best solution for your specific needs; however, the best way to brighten teeth, while avoiding gum irritation and tooth sensitivity, may be to use a whitening toothpaste. It will take longer, but do less damage along the way.
Both the worst and best teeth whitening products use hydrogen peroxide, which can cause irritation. However, whitening toothpastes usually have a lower level of peroxide, meaning less irritation. As a result, they can be used safely multiple times a day like regular toothpaste.
FAQ
It’s possible to remove surface stains, as well as deeper stains. The best whitening toothpaste, whitestrips, and other methods can achieve impressive whitening results.
The best product is the one you will use as directed, on a consistent basis. Hydrogen peroxide will produce a visibly whiter smile when used consistently, which is why most products are used regularly over a period of time. Whitening results will tend to improve, perhaps starting as small spots of white that grow.
The strongest teeth whitening gel on our list is that offered by AuraGlow’s whitening system. It will whiten your teeth, but may also cause sensitivity, particularly as it’s stronger than a dental professional treatment
The LED lights that come with teeth whitening kits are part of an overall whitening system. The light quickens the hydrogen peroxide reaction that breaks down organic stains, but don’t whiten on their own. They can also protect against bacteria [8].
Conclusion
Your pearly whites get quite the workout through your life, and they generally show it. However, that doesn’t mean that you can bring that brighter smile back. Using a gentle whitener can both improve your teeth’s appearance and help maintain good oral health.
