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Dentists agree (we asked them).

A collage of three people testing out various teeth whiteners we recommend

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In This Article

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TL;DR

The best teeth whitener is theCrest Professional Effects 3D Whitestrips.

They work quickly and effectively and are widely recommended by dentists for at-home treatments.

If you have sensitive teeth, we recommend theGLO Science Teeth Whitening gear.

Crest 3DWhitestrips Professional Effects Teeth Whitening Strips

PHOTO: Amazon

It provides noticeable results without causing irritation.

Everyone wants a bright smilebutteeth yellowingcan be almost impossible to avoid.

We also consulted four dentists, who shared the teeth whiteners they recommend to their clients for at-home use.

Crest 3D White Whitestrips

PHOTO: Byrdie / Candy Tierno Baker

This is among the most effective over-the-counter whitening products, says Dr. Sands.

This kit also comes with four one-hour express treatments to see results even quicker.

Joshua Perlman, DMD.

Crest 3D White Whitestrips

By the end of the testing period, my smile was noticeably whiter."

It comes with only 10 treatmentsso youll see full results in 10 days.

It can remove years of stains, and the results can last for months at a time.

Crest 3D White Whitestrips

When using anLED whitening treatment, Dr. Sands says to proceed with caution and follow the instructions exactly.

It’s crucial for patients to use it correctly to avoid potential sensitivity or gum irritation, he explains.

After 10, we found that any surface stains had faded significantly and our smile was much whiter.

Crest 3D White Whitestrips

Jenna, tester:“Theyre effective, theyre affordable, and theyre way stronger than the averagewhitening toothpaste.

Intrinsic stains are set deeper in the teeth, usually behind the enamel.

Whitening gels need to penetrate into teeth and break up stain molecules deep inside the structure of teeth.

Crest 3D White Whitestrips with Light

PHOTO: Amazon

In our office, we use the Opalescence Go 15% kit for these cases.

He recommends it for patients seeking a professional-grade whitening experience at home.

After 15 to 20 minutes, remove and then brush your teeth.

Person holding the Crest 3D White Whitestrips with Light in their mouth

PHOTO: Byrdie / Jenna Igneri

You do not need to dedicate a lot of time to see results.”

But that doesnt mean its less effective.

Its a solid option for those seeking more advanced at-home care.Dr.

Hand holding Crest 3D White Whitestrips

The combination of LED and heat makes the active ingredient work better and quickerwith a lower concentration.

We also loved that it’s portable, so it’s a great choice while traveling.

My teeth definitely look whiternot bright white, but whiter."

Person holding the Crest 3D White Whitestrips with Light in their mouth

Dr. Sands says this pick is a favorite for his patients when whitening at home.

I would say my teeth became about one to two shades lighterit was definitely noticeable."

The Lumineux Dual Action Pen does just that.

Hand holding Crest 3D White Whitestrips

Its easy to use and a good option for patients looking for a simple, on-the-go solution.

It dries down fairly quickly and doesn’t feel thick on the teeth."

He stresses that you should not overuse any whitening products for prevent enamel damage or sensitivity.

Amazon Opalescence Go Tooth Whitening Prefilled Trays

PHOTO: Amazon

In-office treatments have higher dosages of the same ingredients to work quicker.

If you have sensitive teeth or gums, look for options that are specifically targeted for those with sensitivity.

Theyll usually have even lower concentrations of the active ingredients to whiten without causing irritation.

Opalescence Go Tooth Whitening Prefilled Trays displayed on tile

PHOTO: Byrdie / Jhett Thompson

Dr. Kessler explains that yellow teeth are usually because of one of two things: genetics or lifestyle.

Another big one is poor oral hygiene.

Teeth can also yellow as a part of the natural aging process.

Hands opening package of Opalescence Go Tooth Whitening Prefilled Trays

Why Trust Byrdie

Shannon Stubbsis an experienced beauty writer and editor with over six years of experience.

To write this article, she consulted research and studies to determine what makes an effective teeth-whitening product.

She also consulted experts to finalize her picks.

Opalescence Go Tooth Whitening Prefilled Trays displayed on tile

Gbadebo SO, Ajayi DM.SELF REPORTED TOOTH DISCOLORATIONS AMONG PATIENTS SEEN AT DENTAL CENTER UNIVERSITY COLLEGE HOSPITAL IBADAN.

J West Afr Coll Surg.

2015 Jul-Sep;5(3):66-77.

Hands opening package of Opalescence Go Tooth Whitening Prefilled Trays

PMID: 27830134; PMCID: PMC5036264.

Int J Environ Res Public Health.

2020 Dec 23;18(1):44. doi: 10.3390/ijerph18010044.

GLO Science GLO Brilliant Teeth Whitening Device

PHOTO: Amazon

PMID: 33374694; PMCID: PMC7793524.

A person using the Glo Science Teeth Whitening Kit light

PHOTO: Byrdie / Ashley Rebecca

Glo Science Brilliant Deluxe Teeth Whitening Kit displayed in its case

A person using the Glo Science Teeth Whitening Kit light

Glo Science Brilliant Deluxe Teeth Whitening Kit displayed in its case

Snow Diamond Wireless Teeth Whitening Kit

PHOTO: Snow Diamond

A person using the Snow Teeth Whitening LED Light

PHOTO: Byrdie / Leigh Weingus

A hand holding a single Snow Teeth Whitening stick

A person using the Snow Teeth Whitening LED Light

A hand holding a single Snow Teeth Whitening stick

Lumineux Oral Essentials Ultra-Bright Pen 2-Pack

PHOTO: Lumineux

A hand holding the Lumineux Oral Essentials Ultra-Bright Pen in front of instructions on marble counter

PHOTO: Byrdie / Jhett Thompson

Close up of the tip of the Lumineux The Bright Pen

A hand holding the Lumineux Oral Essentials Ultra-Bright Pen in front of instructions on marble counter

Close up of the tip of the Lumineux The Bright Pen

Best Teeth Whitening Treatments Infographic

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