Jul. 21, 2025
There are many teeth-whitening systems and products, including whitening toothpastes, over-the-counter gels, rinses, strips, trays, and whitening products you get from a dentist.
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Teeth-whitening is ideal for people who have healthy, unrestored teeth (no fillings) and gums. Individuals with yellow tones to their teeth respond best. But this cosmetic procedure is not recommended for everyone.
It's never been easier to brighten your smile at home. There are all kinds of products you can try: rinses, gels, chewing gum, toothpastes, and strips.
If you decide to try whitening at home, the American Dental Association suggests that you talk with your dentist first, especially if you have:
At-home whiteners have peroxides, typically carbamide peroxide, in amounts ranging from 10% to 20%.
Choose a product with a peroxide level in the middle of that range. If the product doesn’t bother your mouth but doesn’t give the lightening effect you want, you can choose a higher level. If you have any questions, your dentist can help you find the whitener that best fits your needs.
Whitening toothpastes
All toothpastes remove surface stains because they contain mild abrasives. Some whitening toothpastes contain gentle polishing or chemical agents that provide additional stain removal effectiveness. You might spend $1 to $20, though any prices may vary.
Whitening toothpastes remove surface stains only and do not contain bleach; over-the-counter and professional whitening products contain carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide that lightens the color deep in the tooth. Whitening toothpastes can lighten the tooth's color by about one shade. In contrast, prescription-strength whitening conducted in your dentist's office can make your teeth three to eight shades lighter.
Over-the-counter whitening strips and gels
Whitening gels are clear, peroxide-based gels applied with a small brush directly to the surface of your teeth. Instructions vary depending on the strength of the peroxide. Follow the directions on the product carefully. Initial results are seen in a few days, and final results last about 4 months. A full course takes between 10 and 14 days. You may need to apply them twice a day. You can buy whitening strips and gels from your pharmacy, dentist, or online for around $10 to $55.
Whitening strips are very thin, virtually invisible strips that are coated with a peroxide-based whitening gel. The strips should be applied according to the instructions on the label. Initial results are seen in a few days, and final results last about 4 months.
Whitening rinses
Among the newest whitening products available are whitening rinses. Like most mouthwashes, they freshen breath and reduce dental plaque and gum disease. But these products also include ingredients, such as hydrogen peroxide in some, that whiten teeth. Manufacturers say it may take 12 weeks to see results. You just swish them around in your mouth for 60 seconds twice a day before brushing your teeth. However, some experts say that rinses may not be as effective as other over-the-counter whitening products. Because a whitening rinse is only in contact with the teeth for such a short time -- just 2 minutes a day compared to 30 minutes for many strips -- it may have less of an effect. To give whitening mouthwashes a boost, some people rinse first and then brush their teeth with a whitening toothpaste. Be ready to spend around $5 per bottle.
Tray-based teeth whiteners
Tray-based teeth-whitening systems, purchased either over-the-counter or from a dentist, involve filling a mouth guard-like tray with a gel whitening solution that has a peroxide-bleaching agent. The tray is worn for a period of time, generally from a couple of hours a day to every day during the night for up to 4 weeks and even longer (depending on the degree of discoloration and desired level of whitening). You can buy tray-based teeth-whitening systems from your nearest pharmacy for around $30 or get a custom-fitted tray from your dentist for $150 to $600.
Follow directions. Don’t leave the strips or gels on longer than the directions say, or you might wind up with sore gums and set yourself up for other problems. After you whiten, avoid soda, sports drinks, or other acidic beverages for a couple of hours to protect your teeth.
Protect sensitive teeth. Your teeth may be a little sensitive after you whiten, but it’s usually brief. It might be less of an issue if your teeth and gums are in good shape. If it bothers you, stop the treatment and talk to your dentist. Gel-filled trays, which you wear over your teeth like a mouth guard, can also bother your gums if they don't fit well. It’s a good idea to stop using the product if you start having this problem.
Don’t overdo it. How much whitening is too much? If you follow a product’s directions and get a good result, a once-a-month touchup session is usually enough. When your teeth reach a shade you like, you’ll need to repeat the multiple bleaching sessions twice a year or less.
In-office bleaching provides the quickest way to whiten teeth. With in-office bleaching, the whitening product is applied directly to the teeth. These products can be used in combination with heat, a special light, or a laser. Results are seen in only one, 30- to 60-minute treatment. But to achieve dramatic results, several appointments are usually needed. However, with in-office bleaching, dramatic results can be seen after the first treatment. This type of whitening is also the most expensive approach.
Get a professional cleaning and mouth exam first, even if you decide to whiten your teeth at home. You might need only a thorough cleaning to restore your smile's sparkle.
Your dentist will also look for cavities and check the health of your gums during the exam. Treating any problems before you whiten is safer for your mouth.
Ask your dentist about which over-the-counter system to use and how much lightening you can expect. Teeth do darken with age, and the amount of color change varies from person to person.
Teeth whitening is not permanent. People who expose their teeth to foods and beverages that cause staining may see the whiteness start to fade in as little as 1 month.
The degree of whiteness will vary from person to person depending on the condition of the teeth, the level of staining, and the type of bleaching system used.
Here are some tips to keep your teeth bright:
Do-it-yourself methods aren't the same as getting your teeth whitened by a professional. You'll want to consider a few important differences.
Strength of bleaching agent. Over-the-counter products and dentist-supervised at-home products usually contain a lower strength bleaching agent, with about a 10% to 22% carbamide peroxide content, which is equivalent to about 3% hydrogen peroxide. In-office, professionally applied tooth whitening products contain hydrogen peroxide in concentrations ranging from 15% to 43%.
Mouthpiece trays. With dentist-supervised at-home bleaching products, your dentist will take an impression of your teeth and make a mouthpiece tray that is customized to exactly fit your teeth. This customization allows for maximum contact between the whitening gel, which is applied to the mouthpiece tray, and the teeth. A custom-made tray also minimizes the gel's contact with gum tissue.
Over-the-counter whitening products also contain a mouthpiece tray, but the "one-size-fits-all" approach means that the fit will not be exact. Ill-fitting trays can irritate the gum and soft tissue by allowing more bleaching gel to seep onto these tissues. With in-office procedures, you'll get the bleaching agent applied directly to your teeth.
Additional protective measures. In the office setting, your dentist will apply either a gel to the gum tissue or use a rubber shield (which slides over the teeth) prior to treatment to protect your gums and oral cavities from the effects of the bleaching. Over-the-counter products don't provide these extra protective measures.
Costs. Over-the-counter bleaching systems are the least expensive option, with in-office whitening being the costliest.
Supervised vs. unsupervised process. First, your dentist can perform an oral exam and consider your complete medical history, which can be helpful in determining if bleaching is an appropriate course of treatment based on the type and extent of stains, and the number and location of restorations. Your dentist can then better match the type of stain with the best treatment, if appropriate, to lighten those stains.
When your dentist does it, they'll likely want to see you a couple of times to clear up any questions about the directions, to make sure the customized tray fits properly, to check your gums for signs of irritation, and to generally see how the process is working. With over-the-counter bleaching products, you're on your own.
Whitening is not recommended or will be less successful in the following circumstances:
Age and pregnancy issues. Bleaching is not recommended in children under the age of 16. This is because the pulp chamber, or nerve of the tooth, is enlarged until this age. Teeth whitening under this condition could irritate the pulp or cause it to become sensitive. Teeth whitening is also not recommended in pregnant or lactating women.
Sensitive teeth and allergies. Individuals with sensitive teeth and gums, receding gums, or defective restorations should consult with their dentist prior to using a tooth-whitening system. Anyone allergic to peroxide (the whitening agent) should not use a bleaching product.
Gum disease, worn enamel, cavities, and exposed roots. Individuals with gum disease or teeth with worn enamel are generally discouraged from undergoing a tooth-whitening procedure. Cavities need to be treated before undergoing any whitening procedure. This is because the whitening solutions penetrate into any existing decay and the inner areas of the tooth, which can cause sensitivity. Also, whitening procedures will not work on exposed tooth roots, because roots do not have an enamel layer.
Fillings, crowns, and other restorations. Tooth-colored fillings and resin composite materials used in dental restorations (crowns, veneers, bonding, bridges) do not whiten. Therefore, using a whitening agent on teeth that contain restorations will result in uneven whitening -- in this case, making the teeth without restorations appear lighter than those with restorations. Any whitening procedure should be done prior to the placement of restorations.
People with numerous restorations that would result in uneven whitening may be better off considering bonding, veneers, or crowns rather than a tooth whitening system. Ask your dentist what strategy is best for you.
Unrealistic expectations. Individuals who expect their teeth to be a new "blinding white" may be disappointed with their results. Smokers need to be aware that their results will be limited unless they refrain from continued smoking, particularly during the bleaching process. A healthy guide is to achieve a shade slightly whiter than the whites of your eyes.
Darkly stained teeth. Yellowish teeth respond well to bleaching, brownish-colored teeth respond less well and grayish-hue or purple-stained teeth may not respond to bleaching at all. Blue-gray staining caused by the antibiotic tetracycline is more difficult to lighten and may require up to six months of home treatments or several in-office appointments to successfully lighten.
Teeth that have dark stains may be better candidates for another lightening option, such as veneers, bonding, or crowns. Your dentist can discuss the options best suited for you.
The two side effects that occur most often with teeth whitening are a temporary increase in tooth sensitivity and mild irritation of the soft tissues of the mouth, particularly the gums. Tooth sensitivity often occurs during early stages of the bleaching treatment. Tissue irritation most commonly results from an ill-fitting mouthpiece tray rather than the tooth-bleaching agent. Both of these conditions usually are temporary and disappear within 1 to 3 days of stopping or completing treatment.
If you do experience sensitivity, you can reduce or eliminate it by:
Some whitening products you get through dentists' offices as well as professionally applied (in-office) bleaching products have the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance, which tells you that the product meets ADA guidelines for safety and effectiveness. Currently, only dentist-dispensed home-use products containing 10% carbamide peroxide and office-applied products containing 35% hydrogen peroxide have this seal.
Over-the-counter bleaching products are not endorsed by the ADA, because the organization believes that professional consultation is important to ensuring safe and effective use. No whitening products using lasers are on the ADA's list of accepted products.
Several whitening toothpastes available in drugstores have received the seal, too. You can find a list at www.ada.org.
Not all manufacturers seek the ADA's Seal of Acceptance. This is a voluntary program that requires considerable expense and time on the part of a manufacturer. Just because a product doesn't have the seal does not necessarily mean that the product isn't safe and effective.
Teeth whiteners are not drugs and therefore aren't regulated by the FDA.
Try to select a product that allows the mouthpiece to be customized. Some kits come with a tray that can be molded to some degree. These are better than others that come with a standard mouthpiece.
Look for online reviews and ask around to find out what others who may have already tried the kit you're considering think about it.
If at any time you experience a prolonged change in the color of your gums or an increased tooth sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages, stop wearing the mouthpiece and see your dentist immediately.
Do teeth whiteners damage a tooth's nerve?
There's no evidence that the teeth whitening process has a harmful effect on the health of a tooth's nerve. One study reported that at both a 4.5- and 7-year follow up, no one who used a teeth whitening system needed a root canal procedure on any teeth that had been whitened.
What to consider
Fit
Make sure the white strips fit snug on your teeth and don't touch the gums.
Coverage
Make sure the teeth whitening strips cover the majority of your teeth.
Ease of use
The company is the world’s best How Safe Are Teeth Whitening Strips? supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.
Whitening strips should be easy to apply.
Sensations
Those with sensitive teeth should look out for products without hydrogen peroxide.
Length of wear
Decide what length of time you're comfortable wearing white strips. Sensitive teeth should avoid prolonged wear.
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Compare Back to selectionProfessional teeth whitening can cost anywhere from $300 to $1,000. It’s no surprise many people turn to over-the-counter strips, kits and toothpaste to brighten their smiles. "Think of whitening strips as tiny chemistry labs for your teeth," says Dr. Karen Man, dentist and chief dental officer of SmileGrove Dental. "They’re coated with hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which are fancy names for bleaching agents that break apart stain molecules." To see which ones actually work, we tried a variety to find the best teeth whitening strips based on factors like fit, active ingredients, ease of use, length of wear and strip count.
Crest 3D Whitestrips are our pick as the best teeth whitening strips overall because our tests determined that they had the best results with the most effective active ingredients. If you have surface stains from years of tea, coffee and wine consumption, the whitening agent in Crest 3D Whitestrips can effectively whiten teeth by as much as 23 levels.
But health comes before vanity, so check with your dentist first -- especially if you have a history of enamel erosion or need dental work such as filling a cavity. You should also take precautions when using whitening strips if you have crowns, veneers or fillings, as whitening products may affect these differently.
Why we like it: Crest 3D Whitestrips are truly a classic. They're easy to find and easy to use and I've bought them many times. Each Crest 3D Whitestrips Professional Effects box contains 48 strips for 24 treatments. Wear one strip a day for 30 minutes and Crest claims that you can remove up to 14 years of stains by the end of your last treatment.
Who is it best for: These whitening strips are best for someone who wants up to 23 levels of whiter teeth in about 24 days using the active ingredient hydrogen peroxide.
Who should not get it: One thing to keep in mind is that the coverage is a little less than other brands on this list. I found that it was OK, I just wished the strips would reach over my canines more. They are also the most expensive at $45. Despite that, Crest 3D is still my No. 1 on this list because they're effective time and time again.
... Show more Get it nowWhy we like it: If you don’t like the feeling of whitening strips sitting on your teeth for up to 30 minutes, you can try dissolving strips, instead. Moon Dissolving Whitening Strips are applied just like any other strips but after 15 minutes, they dissolve. There’s no unnecessary waste or mess and no need to rinse. The strips are also peppermint flavored.
Who is it best for: Moon states that in two weeks or less, you can whiten your teeth up to seven shades lighter. In addition to being vegan and cruelty-free, these dissolving whitening strips are free of SLS/SLES (which can irritate skin), triclosan, parabens and artificial flavors.
Who should not get it: These are the third most expensive whitening strips on this list at $40, so if that's not in your budget, you may want to find a more affordable product or one that's on sale.
... Show more Get it nowWhy we like it: Anyone who has sensitive teeth should check out Lumineux Oral Essentials. Lumineux products don't include hydrogen peroxide and instead use a combination of Dead Sea salt, essential oils, coconut oil and aloe vera. The fit and coverage were great, although they did slip around a bit. Lumineux products are also cruelty-free.
Who is it best for: I tested these for three consecutive days, so I can't speak to the long-term efficacy compared with other brands. But Lumineux did conduct a clinical trial that concluded Crest 3D Whitestrips were no more effective than Lumineux natural whitening strips. (The study was funded in part by Lumineux, however.) Still, I think they're worth a shot for people with sensitive teeth and gums.
Who should not get it: Like the Crest 3D Whitestrips Professional Effects, these whitening strips are also $45, which is on the more expensive side.
... Show more Get it nowWhy we like it: Zimba whitening strips are affordable and effective at lightening the shade of your teeth. One pack comes with 28 strips for results in 14 days or less. Wear one strip for 30 minutes a day.
Who is it best for: This cruelty-free brand has found a way to combat one of the negatives of whitening strips -- the strong, bitter taste. Zimba offers 10 flavors to choose from, including watermelon and spearmint. On top of that, the strips have a nonslip design that grip your teeth during each treatment.
Who should not get it: The most affordable on this list ($25), this product comes with the fewest treatments: 28 strips for 14 treatments. If you're looking to get the most treatments out of your purchase, the Moon Dissolving Whitening Strips offer the highest number, 28 treatments.
... Show more Get it nowI began this list of teeth whitening strips with teeth whitening products that could potentially make it into this roundup, looking at factors like brand reputation, buyer reviews on Amazon and full reviews by other writers. After narrowing the lengthy list of teeth whitening strips, I started testing.
It would be impossible to test the long-term efficacy of all of these whitening strips without annihilating my enamel and gum tissue or distinguishing results with back-to-back testing on my own teeth, so I judged each product against a few criteria that I think will help you make a buying decision.
Before buying your next box of teeth whitening strips, consider these factors.
You want your strips to fully cover your teeth and not go up over your gums, which can cause gum sensitivity. Additionally, their fit should be snug. While you go about your day waiting for it to be time to take the strips off, they should not slip and slide inside your mouth.
While whitening your molars is not necessary (since you hardly see them anyway), your teeth whitening strips should still cover a good percentage of your teeth. After you apply the strip, smile and look in the mirror. Is the strip touching all of the teeth you can see in your normal smile? If not, time to try another brand.
Whitening strips should be simple. Apply the product, wait a specified amount of time and take the strips off. If the teeth whitening strips require other steps or seem difficult to use, try another brand.
If you have sensitive teeth or gums, look for products that will give you the least amount of sensitivity. Oftentimes, hydrogen peroxide is too strong for sensitive teeth, so try coconut oil, instead. Don’t suffer through a product if it burns your gums or hurts your teeth.
Most strips require at least 30 minutes of wear in order to get the best results. If you have sensitive teeth or not enough time for teeth whitening strips, look for products that don’t require much wear.
"Over-the-counter teeth whitening strips contain low to moderate concentration of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide gel. The peroxide penetrates the tooth enamel to break down stain molecules," explains Sandip Sachar, DDS, who has been practicing general and cosmetic dentistry in Midtown Manhattan, NYC, for over 20 years. "Whitening strips often include advanced adhesives that keep the strip and peroxide in close contact with the teeth. They can gently lighten the tooth color after repeated applications. Typically, it takes 5-14 daily applications to achieve satisfactory results."
After about a week of daily use, according to Man, most people start seeing their teeth get noticeably whiter.
"Generally, yes, but they’re not right for everyone," answers Man. "The FDA regulates these products, and many have the American Dental Association’s seal of approval. However, people with certain dental conditions like cavities, gum disease or very sensitive teeth should check with their dentist first. Even healthy teeth can become sensitive during whitening."
Man states that problems tend to occur when people are unaware of underlying dental issues or don't follow the product directions. "If you experience persistent pain or sensitivity, stop using them and see your dentist," she advises.
According to Sachar, DIY products can be riskier. "These include products that contain chlorine dioxide or sodium chlorite, which can thin enamel and increase the risk of tooth decay," she says. "These are not ADA-approved ‘natural’ or ‘fast-acting’ whitening products, and I do not recommend them as they are not safe."
"It’s like comparing a professional car wash to doing it yourself in the driveway," states Man. "Professional whitening uses stronger bleaching agents and gives you dramatic results in just one or two visits. Plus, if something goes wrong, your dentist is right there to fix it. They can also customize the treatment for your specific needs and address any sensitivity issues immediately. Strips are the DIY option that costs way less and lets you whiten while binge-watching Netflix. The downside? It takes longer to see results, and you might end up with some uneven spots if your teeth aren’t perfectly straight.”
Sachar provides the following advantages and disadvantages for each type of treatment:
Advantages of at-home whitening strips:
• More affordable than professional in-office treatments.
• Convenient and easier to use on your own schedule.
• Gradual whitening allows for subtle changes over time instead of quick one-day whitening.
• Reduced risk of sensitivity.
Disadvantages of at-home whitening strips:
• Lower peroxide concentrations mean slower and less dramatic results.
• Strips may not fit perfectly, which can lead to uneven whitening, especially between the teeth or along the gumline.
• Greater chances of improper use resulting in adverse side effects, such as leaving them on too long.
Advantages of professional teeth whitening:
• Fast and dramatic results in just one or two visits.
• Custom trays that fit the teeth exactly are sometimes included for continued home whitening or touch-ups.
• Protection for the gums to prevent sensitivity.
• Supervised by a professional, reducing the risk of misuse or complications.
• Professional in-office peroxide concentrations with enhanced activation using LED or laser light can produce a more dramatic and fast result.
Disadvantages of professional teeth whitening:
• Significantly higher cost.
• May cause temporary tooth sensitivity in some patients.
• Less convenient, requiring scheduling and attending a dental visit.
"For patients that have more sensitive teeth, I advise them to use whitening strips with a lower peroxide concentration, or that contain desensitizing agents like potassium nitrate or fluoride," advises Sachar. "I recommend patients with sensitive teeth start using toothpaste for sensitive teeth, fluoride toothpaste or fluoride rinse, 1-2 weeks prior to whitening. I advise them also to space out the treatments with longer times between treatments. I advise them to avoid strips with harsh flavorings or containing unnecessary acids that can irritate the teeth and gums. Look for 'gentle' formulas like ‘Crest 3D White Gentle Routine.'"
According to Man, you should take a break and call your dentist if "your teeth start feeling like they’re getting electric shocks."
Start with a dental checkup: "I always recommend starting with a dental checkup before any whitening routine," recommends Man. "Your dentist can spot potential issues and help you choose the safest, most effective approach for your specific situation.“
Follow directions closely: "Regardless of the product used, technique matters," says Sachar. "I advise patients to brush gently before applying the strips to make sure the teeth are plaque-free and avoid food and drinks that stain teeth for 24-48 hours after whitening. I recommend always following the instructions closely, including never exceeding the recommended frequency or duration."
Wait to brush after whitening: "After whitening, always wait at least 30 minutes before brushing to allow enamel to re-harden and reduce the risk of abrasion or sensitivity," advises Sachar. "Brushing too soon can damage the temporarily softened enamel and irritate gums."
Note that some discoloration may require in-office treatment: “While whitening strips can be effective for many people, professional whitening often provides more predictable and longer-lasting results," Man states. "Strips work great for everyday stains from food and drinks, but some types of discoloration from medications or other causes may need professional treatment."
Crest 3D Whitestrips are widely considered the most effective teeth whitening strips due to their Advanced Seal Technology, which keeps them securely in place for better contact with teeth. They use a high concentration of hydrogen peroxide -- the same whitening agent used by dentists -- to remove both surface and deep stains while being enamel-safe.
Show moreAccording to the American Dental Association, it is recommended to use only over-the-counter bleaching kits with the ADA Seal of Acceptance. These include Crest White Strips.
Show moreYou can brush before applying teeth whitening strips. Brushing and flossing before doing so will remove plaque and create a cleaner canvas. It's advised to wait 30 minutes after brushing to use whitening strips.
Show moreIf you have healthy teeth and good oral health, using a reputable teeth whitening strip should be fine when used as directed. Teeth whitening products are only meant to be used occasionally and in moderation, and it's always a better idea to speak with your dentist first about finding the best option for you. Additionally, steer clear of teeth whitening strips that contain chlorine dioxide.
People who need dental work or have tooth pain should consult with their dentist to find out if teeth whitening is right for them.
Show moreOver-the-counter teeth whitening strips may not be powerful enough for very stained teeth. If you're looking for exceptional results for yellow teeth, consult your dentist.
Show moreThe negatives of teeth whitening strips include possible tooth and gum sensitivity. If you use teeth whitening strips too often, it may cause temporary enamel dehydration and sensitivity, and some of the results might not be the exact shade you imagine.
Show more"When used properly, whitening strips do not damage or weaken tooth enamel," says Sachar. "However, excessive use or overlapping treatments without a proper break between them can contribute to temporary enamel dehydration and sensitivity ... Some non-ADA-approved ‘natural’ or ‘fast-acting’ whitening products can contain chlorine dioxide or sodium chlorite, which can thin enamel and increase the risk of tooth decay."
Show more"Most people stay happy with their results for about six months to a year, but your habits make a huge difference," explains Man. "If you’re someone who can’t function without coffee or loves a good glass of red wine, your teeth will pick up new stains faster. Smokers see their results fade even quicker. The good news is that touch-up treatments work really well to keep your smile bright.”
Sachar adds that proper oral hygiene habits can help you maintain the whitening results longer.
Show more"Strips won’t hurt your veneers, crowns or fillings, but here’s the catch: they won’t whiten them either," says Man. "Only your natural teeth will get lighter, which can leave you with a patchwork smile where some teeth are bright white and others haven’t budged. If you have a lot of dental work, definitely chat with your dentist before whitening so you don’t end up with mismatched teeth.”
Sachar adds, "Repeated or prolonged exposure to peroxide may dull the luster of some composite or resin restorations over time."
If you want to learn more, please visit our website How to Solve Smoke and Tea Stains with Whitening Strips？.
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