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This is the best way to whiten your teeth at home, according to dentists
The gleaming, toothpaste-commercial smile of your dreams is just a few strips (or pastes or gels) away.
While most Americans pine for toothpaste-commercial-white teeth as much as we do symmetrical features or a thick head of hair, the desire for a brighter smile isn't just a matter of vanity. Research shows our dental health is actually directly tied to our mental health and, according to a slew of studies, yellowing, dullness and stains (along with crookedness and decay) can put a hurting on our self-esteem and, in the process, negatively impact the quality of our lives. Luckily, there's a solution for our dental woe. While in-office teeth whitening performed by a professional is by far the fastest path to a glowing grin, recent advancements in whitening technology have wrought an array of effective, affordable and easily accessible at-home treatments. You just need to know which one is right for you.
Opalescence Go 15 — Prefilled Teeth Whitening Trays
Boca Studio Whitening Pens (Set of 3)
Colgate Optic White Advanced Toothpaste, 3-Pack
Crest 3D Whitestrips
Arm & Hammer Baking Soda
GuruNanda Whitening Coconut + Mint Pulling Oil
Sensodyne Pronamel Intensive Enamel Repair Toothpaste for Sensitive Teeth
"When it comes to over-the-counter teeth-whitening products, the most effective options typically contain peroxide-based bleaching agents such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These ingredients are able to penetrate the tooth enamel to remove stains and discoloration," says New York City cosmetic dentist Dr. Mike Wei. "At-home teeth whitening kits are generally recommended for individuals with mild to moderate teeth staining or discoloration. Good candidates for at-home teeth whitening typically have healthy teeth and gums without any underlying dental issues that may require professional intervention."
Wei explains that the options for at-home teeth brightening are myriad — including whitening toothpastes, strips, trays and pens — and the best one for you really depends on your lifestyle and preferences (toothpastes and strips take less time and, often, money; whereas trays and pens can be more potent and effective). "There are a very wide variety of products and brands available with varying concentrations of bleaching agents," explains Dr. Erin Fraundorf, orthodontist and founder of Boca Orthodontic + Whitening Studio. However, Fraundorf warns not all over-the-counter (OTC) whiteners are created equal: "Unlike the whitening products utilized by a dentist, OTC products have a much lower concentration of active whitening ingredient. This means that it will take significantly longer for your teeth to whiten and they may have minimal or decreased efficacy against deep stains."
Adds Wei, "Ultimately, the effectiveness of an over-the-counter teeth whitener varies depending on individual factors such as the severity of staining, compliance with product instructions, and personal oral hygiene habits."
Last, if you experience any pain, sensitivity, or other issues while using an at-home whitening product, stop and consult a dentist.
The best products for at-home teeth whitening
Fraundorf favors Opalescence Go Pros Whitening Trays because they're ready to use right out of the box, easy to travel with and more affordable than in-office treatments with similar ultra-bright results. "The UltraFit tray conforms to any smile, has a minty flavor and contains potassium nitrate and fluoride, [which aids in] patient comfort," she says.
Nearly 7,000 5-star reviewers agree: "These actually work!" exclaimed one happy customer. "This got my teeth as white as the in-office treatment I had for my wedding. Super easy to use and I didn't find it irritating or icky. I will definitely repurchase."
Fraundorf helped design these pens, which are formulated for targeted, ultra-precise whitening: "The brush applicator can avoid sensitive areas and you can add extra whitening gel on more stained areas," she explains. "Plus, it's easy to use on the go." She also notes that the pen is good for those with sensitive teeth and less expensive up front than an in-office whitening (though, admittedly, not as strong).
Toothpaste is the easiest of all the whitening treatments, which is why Wei recommends using it regularly to maintain a bright smile. "Always choose a reputable whitening toothpaste that has been approved by dental professionals. These toothpastes can help remove surface stains without damaging the enamel," he says.
Colgate's Optic White is a top-rated option for a reason: it's one of the few whitening toothpastes made with 2% hydrogen peroxide, a chemical whitener that won't dull surface enamel like the simple tooth polishers found in many other brands can.
To avoid sensitivity, experts recommend rotating Optic White into your tooth brushing regiment just once or twice a week.
If you know anything about at-home tooth whitening, you know about Crest’s 3D Whitening Strips. They carry not only the ADA seal of acceptance but a ton of consumer confidence as well, boasting nearly 50,000 five-star reviews.
Like the Colgate paste, Crest's strips utilize hydrogen peroxide, but in a higher concentration (some reports say 6.5%). They attach directly to your teeth and, unlike other treatments on this list, you can still talk while wearing them, which makes them perfect for multitasking on Zoom calls.
One note: White strips take longer to work than, say, the Opalescence trays and you may need to apply a few times to achieve the desired results.
Yes, the same staple that helps your cakes rise can also brighten your teeth. Says Wei: "Baking soda is a natural whitening agent that can help remove stains from your teeth. Just mix a small amount of baking soda with water to create a paste and brush your teeth with it once a week."
"Oil pulling involves swishing oil around in your mouth to help remove bacteria and toxins that can cause staining," says Wei. "Coconut oil is most commonly used for this purpose."
If you're new to oil pulling, GuruNanda's alcohol-free version is made of 100% pure coconut oil and boasts nearly 15,000 5-star Amazon reviews. And the addition of fresh-tasting peppermint oil makes it extra palatable for beginners. To effectively oil-pull, start by swishing a tablespoon of this stuff around your mouth for 2 minutes, gradually increasing to 10 minutes over time. Just be sure to discard (spit) the oil into the trash when you're done — if not, you risk clogging your pipes with a greasy mess.
If you have sensitive teeth, but still want a gleaming white smile, Fraundorf recommends adding a desensitizing, enamel-repairing toothpaste to your oral hygiene routine. "If you experience sensitivity, switch to a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth to help reduce discomfort," she says.
What should I look for in an at-home whitening product?
When selecting an at-home whitening product, both Wei and Fraundorf shared a number of the key factors to consider, including:
Active Ingredients: Look for products containing proven whitening agents like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These are responsible for the chemical reaction that breaks down stains.
Concentration: Always check out the concentration of the active ingredient. Lower concentrations are gentler on teeth and have longer wear time (ie: overnight), while higher concentrations work faster (ie: 30 minute wear time).
ADA Seal of Acceptance: Look for products approved by the American Dental Association (ADA). This ensures they meet safety and efficacy standards.
Method of use: There are a variety of options. Choose a style that fits your lifestyle, whether it's strips, trays or pens.
Sensitivity considerations: If you have sensitive teeth, opt for products designed specifically for sensitive users or those that include desensitizing agents like potassium nitrate.
Reputable brand: Stick with trusted brands that are known for quality dental care products.
Experts also emphasize that it's always best to consult your dentist first for personalized recommendations. They can help you choose the right product and ensure you don’t accidentally cause damage to your teeth or gums.
Pro tips for the best at-home teeth whitening
"Consistency is key when it comes to achieving the best results with teeth whitening," says Fraundorf. Here are her additional tips to enhance your whitening efforts:
Follow instructions carefully: Whether using strips, trays, or gels, make sure to follow the product's instructions exactly to avoid overuse, which can lead to significant sensitivity or damage.
Brush before whitening: Clean teeth before applying whitening products to remove plaque and ensure better contact with the enamel.
Avoid staining food & drinks: After whitening, try to avoid coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored foods (like berries, ketchup, turmeric) for at least 24 hours to prevent new stains from forming.
Use a desensitizing toothpaste: Toothpastes designed for sensitive teeth can help reduce the discomfort caused by whitening agents.
Protect your gums: Use caution and be conservative with whitening products; avoid using excess amounts that will seep over to your gums, causing irritation.
Maintain good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily to prevent staining and keep your teeth clean.
Touch up regularly: Periodically use whitening products to maintain results. But don't overdo it; excessive use of these products can damage your enamel.
Realistic expectations: "Understand that at-home whitening products may not produce the same dramatic results as professional whitening treatments. Manage your expectations and be patient with the whitening process," says Wei. Also important, says Fraundorf: "Patients with any restorative work must be aware that any artificial tooth structure (i.e., crowns, veneers, composite) will not whiten. Plus, any spots on the enamel or intrinsic deep stains [i.e., from medications] will not go away with teeth whitening."
At-home teeth whitening FAQ
Is at-home teeth-whitening safe?
Mostly, yes! However: "Various oral conditions will lend to some patients being less ideal candidates for at-home whitening [via over the counter and professional-grade-strength products]," says Fraundorf. "These include gingival (gum tissue) recession, wear facets (from teeth grinding), chips or cracks in the teeth, plural necrosis (tooth with a dead nerve), deep medication-caused staining, periodontal disease or a history of sensitivity." Additionally, she says, patients who are pregnant, under the age of 12 or have untreated dental issues (i.e., cavities that have not been restored) should avoid any sort of teeth whitening.
In terms of general safety, keep in mind that the sole current formal certification of teeth-whitening products is the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance. While some products carry this seal, not all do. "Some products without [the seal] are still fine to use, but there is no way for the general consumer to know how to decipher safety and efficacy of a product," says Fraundorf. When in doubt, experts say, choose products carrying the ADA seal.
How can I whiten my teeth at home without damaging them?
To safely whiten your teeth at home, follow product instructions and use professional-grade, ADA-approved products. Avoid overuse, brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush, maintain good oral hygiene and take breaks between treatments.
Above all, always get personalized advice from your dentist. "You only get one set of permanent teeth, so it’s important to take good care of them!" Fraundorf says.
Echoes Wei: "Before starting any at-home whitening regimen, it's a good idea to consult with your dentist. They can assess your oral health and recommend the best whitening product for your specific needs."
