5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (2024)

Buying guide for best teeth whitening gel

You want to present a clean, healthy, and vibrant smile to the world. That's hard to do if your teeth are yellowed and stained. Discolored teeth act as a social liability: it appears that if you do not care for your teeth, your whole body hygiene may leave much to be desired. If your teeth are yellowed or stained and you seek a whiter, brighter smile, you have two options: at-home care or in-office teeth bleaching. The latter option can be quite pricey.

The good news is, you can get rid of the embarrassment of yellowed or stained teeth by using an affordable teeth whitening gel at home. These products have surged in popularity in recent years, and it’s not surprising. As people discover how confident and happy they feel with a brighter, whiter smile, they become repeat customers.

If you are ready for a sparkling smile, read on to learn more about teeth whitening options. When you are ready to purchase a whitening gel, consider our recommendations.

5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (1) 5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (2)

In-office treatments provide the fastest teeth whitening results, but they also cost the most.

Key considerations

All types of toothpaste help remove discoloration and surface stains. Some whitening toothpastes also contain gentle chemical or polishing agents for additional help with stain removal. But toothpaste only removes surface stains; it cannot permeate the enamel or the substance just beneath it, known as dentin. An effective teeth whitening gel can remove stains in both of these layers.

Extrinsic vs. intrinsic staining

Teeth whitening products work on two basic types of stains: extrinsic and intrinsic. Extrinsic stains are those found on the surface of the enamel. As we’ve said, toothpaste is quite effective at lightening or removing extrinsic stains, but it cannot reach and remove stains that are beneath the enamel. These stains are known as intrinsic stains. They are inside the tooth and show through the enamel.

Teeth whitening gels work well for individuals with healthy gums and unrestored teeth (no fillings or crowns). However, teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure with a measure of risk, and it’s not recommended for everyone. See our list of tips to find out more about who shouldn’t use a teeth whitening gel.

The key ingredient

Teeth whitening gels contain an active whitening ingredient: hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide penetrates tooth enamel and dentin to get to the discoloration. It interacts with stain molecules, disrupting the chemical bond and ultimately leading to whiter, brighter teeth. Contrary to popular belief, it is dentin, not enamel, that teeth whitening gels target. Enamel is translucent; dentin makes up the bulk of your overall tooth color or shade, which dentists describe as A1, A2, or A3, depending on the degree of discoloration.

At home:Over-the-counter (OTC) teeth whitening products contain from 3% to 20% hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide (also known as urea). People with sensitive teeth may find carbamide peroxide to be a gentler alternative to hydrogen peroxide.

At the dentist’s office:In-office tooth whitening systems contain from 15% to 43% peroxide. In one session, the teeth may be lightened from five to ten shades. Whitening that is performed at your dentist’s office can help you achieve brighter, whiter teeth faster. That’s because the in-office solution is much stronger than products designed for home use. Also, ultraviolet light, heat, or a combination of the two may be used to intensify and speed up the whitening process.

How long it lasts

Once you stop using a whitening gel, your teeth will begin to show discoloration again — usually within a month. The degree to which wine, coffee, tea, soda, and other foods can stain your teeth depends on the porosity of your enamel. People who avoid beverages and foods that stain and also brush their teeth after every meal can likely go six months to a year between gel treatments.

Cautions and concerns

Usually, the longer you use a strong peroxide solution on your teeth, the whiter they become. However, don’t get carried away: the greater the concentration of peroxide, the less time you should leave it on your teeth. Keeping the whitening gel on longer than recommended dehydrates teeth and leads to increased sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity may last for several days if hydrogen peroxide penetrates past the dentin into the pulp of the tooth. Normally, the sensitivity goes away in just a few days. However, a small percentage of consumers report irreversible damage.

5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (3) 5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (4)

Because peroxide is the main ingredient in whitening gel, we look at the strength of the product. Hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide are the two types used to whiten teeth, and they come in strengths ranging from 3% to 20%.

5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (5) 5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (6)

Stains on the surface of teeth are referred to as “extrinsic” stains, whereas those beneath the enamel are called “intrinsic” stains. We consider whether a tooth-whitening gel is designed to tackle extrinsic stains, intrinsic stains, or both.

5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (7) 5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (8)

In our research, we include products designed to work with trays placed over the teeth during the whitening process.

5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (9) 5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (10)

We compare the quality of over-the-counter teeth-whitening gels to in-office teeth whitening treatments. Other-the-counter gels are highly effective and fairly affordable, but professional whitening works faster and lightens more shades.

5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (11) 5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (12)

We look at teeth whitening gels that come in various forms, including teeth whitening strips, teeth whitening pens, and syringes containing whitening gel that you squirt into application trays.

5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (13) 5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (14)

When used too often or not applied correctly, teeth whitening gel can cause tooth sensitivity. We keep this in mind when assessing the effectiveness of a product.

5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (15) 5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (16)

When researching the effectiveness of various whitening gels, we find out how long consumers can expect the results of each product to last.

5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (17) 5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (18)

Some teeth whitening gels are notorious for causing burning gums or other discomfort. We note the reported side effects of these gels in our research.

5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (19) 5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (20)

Whitening gels require different lengths of time to produce results, depending on the product. We take this information into account when choosing the best teeth whitening gels to recommend.

5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (21) 5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (22)

Although whitening toothpaste works well for most surface stains, it does not remove stains beneath tooth enamel. We look for quality teeth whitening gels that can handle intrinsic stains as well as surface stains.

5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (23) 5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (24)

5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (25) 5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (26)

5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (27) 5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (28)

5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (29) 5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (30)

5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (31) 5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (32)

5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (33) 5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (34)

5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (35) 5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (36)

5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (37) 5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (38)

5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (39) 5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (40)

5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (41) 5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (42)

Features

Format: Over-the-counter teeth whitening gels come in several forms. You might choose a handy pocket pen containing gel and a brush for ease of application. You might choose a set of trays which you fill with gel and place in your mouth. You might choose strips that are saturated with gel; the strips adhere to the teeth and stay there for a number of minutes while the peroxide works its magic. You can also purchase syringes filled with gel; often, these are refill products intended to be used with a particular whitening system, such as a tray system. Before you purchase a product, be sure to read the specifications so you know what to expect.

Expiration date: High-quality teeth whitening gels have an expiration date printed on the packaging. The gel you use should be fresh so the product has not had time to break down. Gel should be sold in moisture-proof, air-tight packaging that does not allow light to penetrate. Don’t use a whitening gel from a package that has expired, a package that appears to have been opened, or a package that looks otherwise damaged.

Satisfaction guarantee: Look for a teeth whitening gel with a satisfaction, money-back guarantee. Try several brands until you find the one that works best for your unique dental challenges.

5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (43) 5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (44)

Did you know?

Bleaching will not lighten or brighten composite tooth-colored fillings or bondings, nor will it whiten porcelain crowns.

STAFF

BestReviews

Teeth whitening gel prices

Inexpensive

Teeth whitening gel kits in the lower price range tend to have a lower percentage of peroxide. Whitening gels in this price range sell for $13 to $20 for a kit that contains 10 applications. You’ll save money on a kit like this, but bear in mind that the concentration of active ingredients may be low, so your results may be less dramatic.

Mid-range

Brand name tooth whitening gel kits in the medium-price range cost from $20 to $50 for a five-application kit. This is a definite price jump, but you are more likely to be satisfied with the results.

Expensive

Individuals seeking the highest-quality over-the-counter teeth whitening products should expect to pay from $50 to $130 for a five-application kit. This may seem like a splurge but remember that in-office treatments can cost upwards of $1,850 for a full-mouth treatment.

5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (45) 5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (46)

Expert Tip

When using over-the-counter teeth whitening gels, expect to see minor results in a few days. Optimum results can be seen in about four months.

STAFF

BestReviews

Tips

  • Follow the instructions on the package to a tee. For example, if you will be wearing a tray, do so as the manufacturer (and/or your dentist) recommends. Trays are typically worn from a couple of hours daily or during the night for up to four weeks to obtain the desired results.
  • Some people should not use teeth whitening gel. This includes children under the age of 16, women who are pregnant or wish to become pregnant, lactating women, and persons with sensitive teeth, bleeding gums, receding gums, or defective restorations.
  • Individuals with allergies to hydrogen peroxide should avoid using a tooth bleaching agent.
  • If you have dental cavities, get them repaired before using a teeth whitening gel.

5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (47) 5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (48)

While it is much less expensive to bleach your teeth at home, before you try OTC tooth-bleaching products, be sure to consult your dentist. Not everyone will achieve good results.

FAQ

Q. What is the difference between carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide?

A. Teeth whitening is effectively accomplished with either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. There is little difference between the results rendered by the two. Hydrogen peroxide on its own is an excellent whitening agent. Carbamide peroxide, also effective, contains hydrogen peroxide in a ratio of 1:3. In other words, a product with 30% carbamide peroxide contains about 10% hydrogen peroxide.

Q. I have sensitive teeth, so I’m going to opt for a gel containing carbamide peroxide. Because different brands have different amounts of peroxide in their formulas, how do I know which strength is right for me?

A. Clinical grades of teeth whitening gel contain 22% carbamide peroxide. This is a medium-strength formula, ideal for individuals with tooth sensitivity seeking a gel that is neither too strong nor too weak. You may wish to start here and cut back if you still experience sensitivity.

5 Best Teeth Whitening Gels - Mar. 2024 - BestReviews (2024)

FAQs

What is the number 1 recommended teeth whitening? ›

Crest 3DWhitestrips Glamorous White

It's actually the first product to earn the ADA seal in the Home-Use Tooth Bleaching Products category. The strips promise to remove up to 10 years' of stains and yellowing (that's a lot of coffee!).

What is the best teeth whitening gel to use? ›

For professional-grade results at home, Dr. Sands recommends Opalescence's teeth-whitening gel, which contains an impressive 35% carbamide peroxide. “It's potent whitening power with professional-grade results,” he says.

What gel do dentist use for teeth whitening? ›

One hydrogen peroxide-based product the dentists prefer is Opalescence Boost. Its main ingredient is a gel that contains 38% hydrogen peroxide. This is what brightens and whitens your teeth. Another chemical, potassium nitrate, is also applied to strengthen the tooth enamel.

What do most dentists use for teeth whitening? ›

Carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide are commonly used in whitening interventions and can readily permeate dental hard tissues. Temporary tooth sensitivity and gingival inflammation are the most common adverse effects of vital tooth whitening.

What is the strongest teeth whitening gel percentage? ›

The maximum that can be used is 35 percent, which is approximately what you will find at the dentist's office. A 35 percent concentration comes with a set of complications, making it possible for you to leave it on your teeth for only a certain period, which in most cases is about 30 to 45 minutes.

What is the strongest hydrogen peroxide teeth whitening gel? ›

The 6% Hydrogen Peroxide is equivalent to 18% Carbamide Peroxide and is the strongest at home whitening solution allowed by EU Regulations and is recommended to be used for 30-90 minutes at a time. The length of full treatment is prescribed by the dentist.

What is the best teeth whitener for quick results? ›

Zoom Teeth Whitening System

If you want to see incredible results right away, the Zoom whitening system is ideal! Zoom whitening is an in-office whitening system that takes between 45 and 60 minutes. Your Whittier dentist will isolate your teeth to protect your gums and ensure the gel stays on your teeth.

What is the quickest and most effective way to whiten teeth? ›

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.

What is the best and fastest teeth whitening method? ›

laser teeth whitening is the safest, quickest, and most effective option among the types of teeth-whitening treatments available. However, there are ultimately several ways to whiten teeth, and the most suitable option will depend on your timeline, budget, and priorities, as well as the nature of the discoloration.

What strength whitening gel do dentists use? ›

The gel used by dentists can have 35% – 45% peroxide in it. More the peroxide, the faster the whitening. So within an hour-long session, you could have up to three – eight shades brighter teeth. At-home whitening gels have 3% – 20% peroxide.

What teeth whitening products actually work? ›

  • Crest 3D Whitestrips Classic Vivid.
  • Lumineux Teeth Whitening Strips.
  • Opalescence Go Teeth Whitening Trays.
  • Nu Skin AP 24 Toothpaste.
  • Burt's Bees Whitening Toothpaste.
  • ACT Whitening + Anticavity Fluoride Mouthrinse.
Apr 4, 2024

Do teeth whitening gels actually work? ›

It can't make your teeth brilliant white, but it can lighten the existing colour by several shades.

Does swishing hydrogen peroxide whiten teeth? ›

A simple hydrogen peroxide mouthwash may help remove mild stains. However, a person should avoid leaving hydrogen peroxide solutions on their teeth for extended periods. For people who have darker stains, stronger whitening options are available both over the counter and from a dentist.

What is the least damaging way to whiten your teeth? ›

Baking Soda: As long as you are careful to brush gently, baking soda can eliminate stains from the surface of your teeth without damaging them. Whitening Strips: Whitening strips mold to the shape of your teeth to whiten them. Whitening strips are both safe and effective.

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.

What teeth whitening is least damaging? ›

At-Home Custom Tray Whitening

For the safest and most effective at-home teeth whitening method, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) recommends you use custom-fitted trays supplied by your dentist.

What is the most harmless teeth whitening method? ›

The 12 Best (and Safest) Ways to Whiten Teeth
  • Apply whitening strips.
  • Use baking soda toothpaste.
  • Try oil pulling.
  • Practice good oral hygiene.
  • Don't skip dental checkups.
  • Prevent teeth stains caused by food.
  • Quit smoking & tobacco use.
  • Get veneers.
Dec 13, 2023

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Recommended Articles
Article information

Author: Errol Quitzon

Last Updated:

Views: 5674

Rating: 4.9 / 5 (79 voted)

Reviews: 86% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Errol Quitzon

Birthday: 1993-04-02

Address: 70604 Haley Lane, Port Weldonside, TN 99233-0942

Phone: +9665282866296

Job: Product Retail Agent

Hobby: Computer programming, Horseback riding, Hooping, Dance, Ice skating, Backpacking, Rafting

Introduction: My name is Errol Quitzon, I am a fair, cute, fancy, clean, attractive, sparkling, kind person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.