These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (2024)

Table of Contents
Best For Fast Results Best For Travel Best For Stain Removal Best Whitening Add-On Best Sustainable Option Best For Sensitive Teeth Best On-The-Go Option Best For Beginners Best For A-List Smile Best Rechargeable LED Kit Crest Whitening Emulsions Crest Whitening Emulsions Apa Beauty White Duo Apa Beauty White Duo Smile Direct Club Teeth Whitening Kit with LED Light Smile Direct Club Teeth Whitening Kit with LED Light Lovely Bright Smile Mint Activated Charcoal Teeth Whitening Powder Lovely Bright Smile Mint Activated Charcoal Teeth Whitening Powder Bite Teeth Whitening Kit Bite Teeth Whitening Kit Crest 3D White Whitestrips Dental Whitening Kit Sensitive Crest 3D White Whitestrips Dental Whitening Kit Sensitive Go Smile Glow On The Go Teeth Whitening Device Go Smile Glow On The Go Teeth Whitening Device Colgate Optic White Overnight Teeth Whitening Pen Colgate Optic White Overnight Teeth Whitening Pen Moon The Whitening Device Moon The Whitening Device CO. by Colgate SuperNova Rechargeable At-Home Teeth Whitening Kit CO. by Colgate SuperNova Rechargeable At-Home Teeth Whitening Kit GLO Science GLO Brilliant White Smile At Home Teeth Whitening Device GLO Science GLO Brilliant White Smile At Home Teeth Whitening Device SNOW Teeth Whitening Kit SNOW Teeth Whitening Kit vVardis White Enamel Serum vVardis White Enamel Serum Auraglow Prefilled Teeth Whitening Trays Auraglow Prefilled Teeth Whitening Trays What ingredients should you look for when purchasing a teeth whitening kit? What ingredients should you look for when purchasing a teeth whitening kit? Does teeth whitening provide any sort of benefit aside from aesthetics? Does teeth whitening provide any sort of benefit aside from aesthetics? What can you do to prolong the effects of teeth whitening? What can you do to prolong the effects of teeth whitening? What are the precautions associated with teeth whitening? What are the precautions associated with teeth whitening? Meet the Experts FAQs References
These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (1)

Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

There are very few things that I fear as much as going to the dentist. Are they going to shame me for not flossing every day? Do I need to go into a witness protection program? Sometimes, it’s better not to find out and just do it yourself. If you've found your way here, it's quite possible your teeth are looking dull and stained from too much morning coffee's to get your day going, or red wine as you catch up with friends. The drugstore aisles are filled with teeth-whitening products promising overnight results. You’re overwhelmed. What actually works? You begin to panic, run home, and pour yourself a glass of the reddest red wine to recover from the chaotic aisles...and so the cycle continues. That is, until you find an at-home teeth whitening kit that actually works. “I’ve seen teeth whitening have mental health benefits,” says aesthetic dentist Dr. Apa. So, what are you waiting for?

While professional teeth whitening will give you the most dramatic results in no time, there are lots of great kits you can try at home that can provide a similar effect. Whether you want a pen, a high-tech device, or tried-and-true strips, we’ve got you covered. Using a formula packed with hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide will polish off stains and boost the overall appearance of your teeth. Here, find the 14 best at-home teeth whitening products on the market and some tips from our smile-loving experts.

1

Best For Fast Results

Crest Whitening Emulsions

These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (12)

1

Best For Fast Results

Crest Whitening Emulsions

Pros
  • These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (13)No sensitivity
Cons
  • These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (14)Gel takes time to dry

If you’re looking for whiter teeth in no time, look no further. You can use the Crest Whitening Emulsions and LED light up to four times a day to boost your results. Apply the emulsions to your teeth and hold the light in place. Not only is this option quick, but it was designed for even sensitive teeth in mind. No pain, all the gain.

A Target reviewer says: “This is a great whitening product for people with sensitive teeth. I experience tooth sensitivity after using whitening strips, but didn’t experience any discomfort after using this gel. I like the feeling of the gel opposed to white strips sliding off my teeth. I started using this product a few weeks before my wedding and saw a dramatic difference in a short time.”

2

Best For Travel

Apa Beauty White Duo

These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (15)

2

Best For Travel

Apa Beauty White Duo

Pros
  • These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (16)Compact and portable
Cons
  • These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (17)Pricey

For a professional experience at home, this kit has it all. It comes with a whitening pen and films to dramatically improve your smile without causing sensitivity. The pen is small and the trays are individually wrapped, making this kit travel friendly.

An Apa reviewer says: “Got this kit for myself a week before my wedding. I can't recommend enough!”

3

Best For Stain Removal

Smile Direct Club Teeth Whitening Kit with LED Light

These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (18)

These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (19)

3

Best For Stain Removal

Smile Direct Club Teeth Whitening Kit with LED Light

Pros
  • These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (20)Easy to use
Cons
  • These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (21)Takes a week to see results

I’ve been using this kit for the past few months and have not only noticed whiter teeth but the fading of stains. I recommend using it twice each day for a week, and then continuing to use it periodically for maintenance. I like to plug the light into my phone and whiten my teeth for five minutes while making my bed in the morning or tidying up at night.

A Smile Direct Club reviewer says: “This kit far exceeded my expectations. It removed stains even my dentist couldn’t. I’m singing its praises to anyone interested.”

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

4

Best Whitening Add-On

Lovely Bright Smile Mint Activated Charcoal Teeth Whitening Powder

These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (22)

4

Best Whitening Add-On

Lovely Bright Smile Mint Activated Charcoal Teeth Whitening Powder

Pros
  • These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (23)Easy to add to routine
Cons
  • These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (24)Powder may be messy

If adding another step to your oral care routine sounds like a lot, opt for this activated charcoal powder instead. Simply add to your toothpaste when you brush. Bentonite clay will polish the enamel on your teeth to fade stains and reveal a brighter, whiter smile.

A Lovely Bright Smile reviewer says: “This is a good product, and it lasts a while, too, even with brushing twice a day. Definitely have a repeat customer.”

5

Best Sustainable Option

Bite Teeth Whitening Kit

These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (25)

5

Best Sustainable Option

Bite Teeth Whitening Kit

Pros
  • These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (26)Recyclable
Cons
  • These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (27)Must use twice a day for 14 days

The Bite Teeth Whitening Kit is the first and only plastic-free teeth whitening kit. The whitening solution is housed in a glass container, and the applicator is entirely compostable. Plus, the system is incredibly easy to use. Just brush the solution onto your teeth and smile for two minutes as it begins to bubble, getting down to whitening business. Rinse off excess and show off your pearly whites. Try out the Bite subscription service if you want to stay extra consistent with your oral care routine.

A Bite reviewer says: “Bite whitened my teeth quickly and tastes good and is easy to do! And I love the convenience of the toothpaste Bites! Great for traveling/overnights/camping, or just being out for a day.”

6

Best For Sensitive Teeth

Crest 3D White Whitestrips Dental Whitening Kit Sensitive

These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (28)

6

Best For Sensitive Teeth

Crest 3D White Whitestrips Dental Whitening Kit Sensitive

Pros
  • These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (29)Easy to use
Cons
  • These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (30)Takes two weeks to see full results

If you’re anything like me, your bottom teeth are extra sensitive. Whenever I try to use a whitening strip on them, I instantly regret it and throw it away. Well, gone are the days of wasting your whitening kits with this one from Crest, developed with sensitive teeth in mind. Try this one if you never thought you could use a whitening kit.

An Ulta reviewer says: “I’ve been using these for years, and they don’t work quite as well as the other Crest white strips, but they do not hurt my sensitive teeth and gums at all! After a few uses, I definitely see a difference, and I continue to re-purchase these.”

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

7

Best On-The-Go Option

Go Smile Glow On The Go Teeth Whitening Device

These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (31)

7

Best On-The-Go Option

Go Smile Glow On The Go Teeth Whitening Device

Pros
  • These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (32)Travel friendly
Cons
  • These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (33)Pricey

If the idea of whitening your teeth on your morning commute, while walking your dog, or waiting in the terminal for your flight to Fiji (we wish) speaks to you, then this portable kit is the one for you. The set includes a whitening gel and a small blue light device to amplify the effects.

“I think everyone should get one of these if they want whiter teeth. I’m so tired of the wine and tea statins. This is like magic to make them go away. I cannot tell you how much I love this!”

8

Best For Beginners

Colgate Optic White Overnight Teeth Whitening Pen

These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (34)

8

Best For Beginners

Colgate Optic White Overnight Teeth Whitening Pen

Pros
  • These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (35)Quick and easy
Cons
  • These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (36)Product may clump

This hydrogen peroxide-packed overnight pen makes whitening your teeth oh so easy. Simply apply the gel after brushing at night and wake up with a brand new smile.

A Target reviewer says: “I never write reviews, but this product absolutely deserves it. It whitened my teeth with noticeable results in just the first use. Everyone deserves to smile confidently, and this gel pen gives you that.”

9

Best For A-List Smile

Moon The Whitening Device

These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (37)

9

Best For A-List Smile

Moon The Whitening Device

Pros
  • These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (38)No mess
Cons
  • These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (39)Pricey

Whitening your teeth can seem like a chore. Whether you’re applying a thick gel or trying to remove a slimy strip, it can be annoying. But with Moon’s dissolving strips, there will be little-to-no-excess when you finish up your five-minute whitening session with the LED device. Plus, Kendall Jenner is a fan, and her teeth are blindingly white.

An Ulta reviewer says: “I would never use the dissolving strips alone, but with this device, THEY WORK! This has been the most effective system I’ve ever used with ZERO side effects.”

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

10

Best Rechargeable LED Kit

CO. by Colgate SuperNova Rechargeable At-Home Teeth Whitening Kit

These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (40)

These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (41)

10

Best Rechargeable LED Kit

CO. by Colgate SuperNova Rechargeable At-Home Teeth Whitening Kit

Now 30% Off

Pros
  • These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (42)Quick results
Cons
  • These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (43)Pricey

This kit comes with a whitening pen and a rechargeable LED light for easy at-home whitening. Use the light for 10 minutes each day for the best results. With the SuperNova kit, your smile will be out of this world, pun intended.

An Ulta reviewer says: “I really love this product. I have sensitive teeth, and I have found that it does not irritate my teeth. I have noticed a difference in my teeth since using this whitening kit. I like it more than the white strips I was using previously.”

11

Best User-Friendly Option

GLO Science GLO Brilliant White Smile At Home Teeth Whitening Device

These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (44)

11

Best User-Friendly Option

GLO Science GLO Brilliant White Smile At Home Teeth Whitening Device

Pros
  • These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (45)Prevents sensitvity
Cons
  • These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (46)Pricey

The GLO Science formula includes hydrogen peroxide to whiten the teeth and remove stains, while potassium nitrate prevents sensitivity. This kit also comes with a tooth shade guide to help you track your teeth whitening process and a lip treatment to keep your pout from getting dry.

A Sephora reviewer says: “Wow, what can I say? I was really impressed by how quick and simple this product worked! It is even dentist-invented, so my hopes were high as to the effectiveness of this product. My teeth did, in fact, get visibly whiter after only a few uses too, and I loved how I could use the device around the house even when busy.”

12

Best For Long-Lasting Results

SNOW Teeth Whitening Kit

These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (47)

These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (48)

12

Best For Long-Lasting Results

SNOW Teeth Whitening Kit

Pros
  • These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (49)Includes up to 75 treatments
Cons
  • These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (50)Pricey

Dentists developed Snow’s teeth whitening kit to provide professional whitening results at home. Reviewers noticed a major difference in their teeth in just a few treatments. Plus, a portion of every Snow sale is donated to dental care for children.

An Amazon reviewer says: “I have only had the whitening kit for a few days and have used it every day. Already seeing a difference! Works fast!”

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

13

Best for Gum Health

vVardis White Enamel Serum

These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (51)

13

Best for Gum Health

vVardis White Enamel Serum

Now 46% Off

Pros
  • These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (52)Fights against cavities and decay
Cons
  • These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (53)Pricey

First off, this bottle and brush will look so chic on your bathroom counter. It’s also super simple to use. Just apply it on dry teeth before bed, and the formula will get to work overnight. The brand’s patented technology helps strengthen teeth and gums while fighting against cavities and decay.

A Saks reviewer says: “Amazing whitening kit from a green, sustainable company. It works, and I LOVE it!!”

14

Best For No-Mess

Auraglow Prefilled Teeth Whitening Trays

These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (54)

14

Best For No-Mess

Auraglow Prefilled Teeth Whitening Trays

Now 44% Off

Pros
  • These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (55)No mess
Cons
  • These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (56)Must use for 30 minutes

The Auraglow prefilled whitening trays make it easier than ever to brighten your smile. Pop in the tray for 30 minutes and go forth with shiny white teeth—no messing with a pen or strip here.

An Amazon reviewer says: “My teeth are definitely whiter even after only three applications.”

What ingredients should you look for when purchasing a teeth whitening kit?

These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (57)

“Hydrogen peroxide, the same enamel-safe ingredient dentists use for teeth whitening, is the main ingredient consumers should look for,” says Venneri. “For a teeth-whitening kit to be effective–meaning it attacks both extrinsic and intrinsic stains to bleach teeth beyond their natural color–it must contain one of two active ingredients: hydrogen peroxide (fast-acting, but increased sensitivity) or carbamide peroxide (slower-acting, but less sensitivity),” says Dr. Apa. You should also look for ingredients like peroxide droplets and potassium nitrate, which help to reduce sensitivity.

Kits with LED lights can help boost the results of the whitening formulas. “Blue light acts as a catalyst for the bleaching products,” says Dr. Lowenberg. “It increases the chemical reaction that hydrogen peroxide does.”

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

Does teeth whitening provide any sort of benefit aside from aesthetics?

These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (58)

“I’ve seen teeth whitening have mental health benefits,” says Dr. Apa. “Think about it–when your teeth are whiter, you typically smile more, and studies show that smiling can have a positive impact on mood. You’re tricking your brain into happiness! Have you heard the saying, ‘when you smile on the phone, the other person can hear it?’ It’s something like that.”

What can you do to prolong the effects of teeth whitening?

These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (59)

Many kits recommend not eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes after whitening to avoid staining. Dr. Apa also suggests avoiding food or drinks with heavy coloring for 48 hours–think tomato sauce, red wine, berries, and coffee.

What are the precautions associated with teeth whitening?

These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (60)

“The teeth can get temporarily sensitive,” says Dr. Lowenberg. “You don’t want to bleach if you have a cavity or decay, and you can’t bleach dental work, like crowns of porcelain veneers, because it won’t change color.”

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

Meet the Experts

These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (61)

Aly Venneri, Crest Teeth Whitening’s Brand Director

Dr. Marc Lowenberg, Cosmetic Dentist of Lowenberg, Lituchy & Kantor in NYC

Dr. Michael Apa, Aesthetic Dentist and Founder of Apa Beauty

These At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Actually Work (2024)

FAQs

Do any home teeth whitening kits actually work? ›

So, yes, they are as effective. The active ingredient in the over-the-counter whitening kits that you can buy is one of the two active ingredients that we talked about. And it's the same ingredient that we use in a dental office when we're doing a professional cleaning.

Is there any teeth whitening that actually works? ›

If you're looking for long-lasting results, Bianca Velayo, DMD of Green Valley Smiles Dentistry, recommends looking for peroxide-based products if you're hoping to whiten tooth enamel. You can opt for either carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide as both will reverse internal and external stains on teeth, she notes.

Do home UV teeth whitening kits work? ›

Clinical studies have proven (and continue to prove) these lights: Do not provide long term effects, rather the light gives a temporary whiter appearance to the teeth. May harm oral tissues. Create a greater possibility for teeth sensitivity through dehydration.

How good is at home teeth whitening? ›

Teeth whitening products — whether an over-the-counter option you use at home or a professional treatment — can be effective and safe, if used correctly. “If you want a brighter smile, teeth whitening products can be good tools,” says Dr. Clemons. “But they aren't a substitute for good dental hygiene.”

What is the fastest teeth whitening at home? ›

A mixture of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide has been proven to work in some cases for instant results in a pinch. Combine two tablespoons of hydrogen peroxide with one tablespoon of baking soda. Mix it until it becomes a paste and use it to brush your teeth.

Does baking soda whiten teeth? ›

Baking soda can be used with some water to remove the stains on the surface of the teeth. It can also be used with hydrogen peroxide to enhance its whitening effects. Baking soda can be used by individuals with regular toothpastes too. It is also used commercially in some teeth whitening products and toothpastes.

Can yellow teeth become white again? ›

Can yellow teeth be bleached? Yellow teeth can be completely whitened with teeth whitening technologies at the dentist or at home. Depending on the status of your yellow teeth as well as your needs, the doctor will advise and prescribe the appropriate method.

Can old yellow teeth be whitened? ›

Whitening Aging Yellow Teeth: What to Consider

Dentistry for seniors suggests tooth whitening can be done at any age of adulthood. Tooth whitening products remove built-up stains and brighten the enamel. They are affordable and easy-to-use solutions to the problem of aging yellow teeth.

What is the best thing on the market to whiten your teeth? ›

Crest 3D White Whitestrips with Light

Then their effect is amped up with blue light technology to provide noticeable results lasting up to 36 months. You wear the strips for 10 days, every day for an hour, then hold up the light device to the strips for another 10 minutes (five minutes each on the top and bottom).

Does Crest Blue light really work? ›

It's cool to light it up, but when I insert it in my mouth, I look more like a teenage orthodontic patient than a member of the Insta-elite. But it's worth it to get the extra whitening boost (the blue light helps break up stains so the peroxide in the strips works better) without a trip to the dentist's office.

What are the cons of teeth whitening kits? ›

However, teeth whitening treatments can cause damage to the enamel if not done correctly or overused. Enamel damage can lead to increased sensitivity, pain, and white spots on your teeth. It's essential to consult with a dentist before using any teeth whitening products to ensure they're safe for your teeth.

Do store bought teeth whiteners work? ›

Then, over-the-counter whitening agents can work effectively. But because it's not dentist-monitored, many of them don't do anything. For instance, a mouthwash containing a whitening agent such as hydrogen peroxide probably is not going to be very effective.

What is the cheapest way to whiten your teeth? ›

Over-the-counter options, like whitening toothpastes, strips, and kits, tend to be the cheapest options. If you feel self-conscious about the brightness of your smile, you are far from alone.

Is it better to whiten your teeth at the dentist or DIY? ›

Choosing a non-professional teeth whitening treatment can carry a higher risk of adverse effects, including damage to your teeth and gums, and even a worsening of your discoloration. By far, the safest and most effective option is to have your teeth professionally whitened by your dentist.

Do LED lights really whiten teeth? ›

While LED tooth whitening shows promise, some studies suggest that LED lights improve bleaching only slightly or not at all for some people. Short-term effects. If you enjoy coffee, tea, or wine, you may be unhappy with the long-term results of your tooth whitening.

Do any OTC teeth whiteners work? ›

Then, over-the-counter whitening agents can work effectively. But because it's not dentist-monitored, many of them don't do anything. For instance, a mouthwash containing a whitening agent such as hydrogen peroxide probably is not going to be very effective.

Why won't my teeth whiten? ›

If teeth whitening does not work for you, it might be because of the product you are using, the type of tooth stains or spots, or strength of the bleaching gel. Product type – Whitening toothpaste does not remove deeply embedded stains.

Does professional teeth whitening work better than at home? ›

Professional teeth whitening uses a more effective process

This means that the hydrogen peroxide content of your at-home kit is very low, whether you are using toothpaste, liquid filled trays, or strips. Dr. Yalamanchili is able to use a stronger process in her office, typically approved for use by dentists only.

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Recommended Articles
Article information

Author: Gov. Deandrea McKenzie

Last Updated:

Views: 5582

Rating: 4.6 / 5 (66 voted)

Reviews: 89% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Gov. Deandrea McKenzie

Birthday: 2001-01-17

Address: Suite 769 2454 Marsha Coves, Debbieton, MS 95002

Phone: +813077629322

Job: Real-Estate Executive

Hobby: Archery, Metal detecting, Kitesurfing, Genealogy, Kitesurfing, Calligraphy, Roller skating

Introduction: My name is Gov. Deandrea McKenzie, I am a spotless, clean, glamorous, sparkling, adventurous, nice, brainy person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.