Even attending all of your regular dental appointments and avoiding common food and liquids that stain your teeth, your teeth might still be failing the tissue test. If your pearly whites could use a little brightening, using the best teeth whitening kits are a good option. The best teeth whitening kits can help improve your self-confidence when you smile, or even compliment your favorite bronzer or self-tanner.
From LED lights to natural charcoal, there are several options available that all claim to give you a more pleasing smile. The type of teeth whitening kit(s) you purchase come down to a personal preference. While some like the convenience and travel size of a whitening pen, you might prefer a kit that includes LED technology. If you are more into natural products, you will appreciate the products that contain charcoal powder. Whitening your teeth should not be a scary experience. The best teeth whitening kits are easy to use and do not cause any pain. If you are new to teeth whitening kits or haven’t used one for a while, the array of choices can be overwhelming. We have rounded up our top five teeth whitening kits that are safe, effective and affordable.
If teeth whitening strips are not working for you or cause you pain, the AuraGlow Teeth Whitening Kit will make you love teeth whitening again. Our top pick for ease of use, affordability and comfort.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Teeth Whitening Kits
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | AuraGlow Teeth Whitening Kit | 4.4 |
| Runner Up | Active Wow Teeth Whitening Charcoal Powder | 4.2 |
| Best Budget Buy | Activated Charcoal Natural Teeth Whitening Powder by Ecco Pure | 4.3 |
| Best LED Teeth Whitening Kit | Cali White Vegan Teeth Whitening Kit with LED Light | 4.3 |
| Best Teeth Whitening Strips | Crest 3D White Glamorous White Whitestrips | 3.9 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of writing and can change
Our Top Pick: AuraGlow Teeth Whitening Kit
If teeth whitening strips are not working for you or cause you pain, the AuraGlow Teeth Whitening Kit will make you love teeth whitening again.
The deluxe LED light has five bulbs for a faster whitening. Use the built-in timer so you can multi-task while improving your smile. Whiten your top and bottom teeth at the same time with easy to use whitening trays. An included tray case keeps your whitening trays from any contamination.
Whitening gel is made in USA. The gel is kosher, gluten-free, and safe for your teeth enamel. Get an affordable, professional kit that you can use in the comfort of your own home.
AuraGlow Teeth Whitening Kit Key Features:
- Results after one treatment
- Accelerator light for faster whitening
- Built in timer with audible beep
- Kit includes 20+ whitening treatments
- Made in the USA, gluten free, kosher
- No tooth sensitivity, safe for enamel
- No prep mouth tray, whiten your top and bottom teeth at the same time
Our Runner Up Pick: Active Wow Teeth Whitening Charcoal Powder
Activated charcoal whitens your teeth without any harsh chemicals. Active Wow Teeth Whitening Charcoal Powder only uses the best organic ingredients to keep you from experiencing discomfort.
Active Wow uses organic ingredients. We love that the product is all natural, made in the USA and 3rd party tested with an emphasis on safety. If you have issues with sensitivity using popular teeth whitening brands, try Active Wow. This teeth whitening powder is gentle on sensitive teeth and can even improve gum health.
Active Wow Teeth Whitening Charcoal Powder Key Features:
- Made in the USA
- No sensitivity
- Organic ingredients
Best Budget Pick: Activated Charcoal Natural Teeth Whitening Powder by Ecco Pure
This budget teeth whitening solution packs a punch in both size and whitening ability. Activated Charcoal Natural Teeth Whitening Powder by Ecco Pure doesn’t have a weird taste and can easily be used with your favorite toothpaste.
The larger size tin will help you keep your teeth whiter for a few months without breaking the bank. Works best on surface stains from liquids such as coffee and wine.
Activated Charcoal Natural Teeth Whitening Powder by Ecco Pure Key Features:
- Made in the UK
- Natural ingredients
- One tin can last you multiple months
- Best for surface stains
Best LED Teeth Whitening Kit: Cali White Vegan Teeth Whitening Kit with LED Light
Get professional results in an at home kit in as little as one treatment with the Cali White Vegan Teeth Whitening Kit with LED Light. Your smile could be 2-8 shades whiter in just one week of use.
Cali White is made in the USA, vegan, kosher, gluten free, cruelty free and contains organic ingredients. Use the custom thermoform trays for a perfect fit.
Cali White Vegan Teeth Whitening Kit with LED Light Key Features:
- Made in the USA
- Vegan, no GMO, kosher, gluten free, no PEG & PPG, no sulfates or parabens, certified organic ingredients, cruelty free
- Patented universal comfort fit tray and bonus custom thermoform trays
- 5x bright LED light and timer
Best Teeth Whitening Strips: Crest 3D White Glamorous White Whitestrips
If whitening toothpaste just isn’t cutting through your persistent stains, Crest 3D White Glamorous White Whitestrips is formulated to remove stubborn stains. Whitens 25 times better than whitening toothpaste.
Crest 3D Whitestrips are the only whitening strips approved by the ADA. Whitestrip treatments can last six months or more. Great for at home or travel to brighten your smile.
Crest 3D White Glamorous White Whitestrips Key Features:
- Only whitening strips approved by ADA
- Whitens 25x better than leading whitening toothpaste
- Lasts 6+ months
Who Should Buy a Teeth Whitening Kit
The main reason for purchasing a teeth whitening kit is to brighten discolored teeth. Discoloration can be caused from a lack of teeth maintenance, aging, and lifestyle choices such as smoking or a bad diet. People also purchase a teeth whitening kit when they have a job interview or an important event in which whiter teeth would help them make a better first impression.
It is important to note that you should not try to whiten your teeth continuously. Teeth whitening is meant to be a temporary fix that should only be administered when absolutely necessary. Over whitening your teeth can cause tooth pain and sensitivity.
If you are currently suffering from periodontal disease, always speak with your dentist before beginning an over the counter whiting regiment. It is possible you could be doing more damage to your already inflamed gums by using a whitening product. If you feel you need prescription whitening, your dentist will be able to confirm and help you choose the right product for your specific needs.
Important Features to Consider
A teeth whitening kit should be safe and painless to use. Here’s what to consider when selecting a teeth whitening kit:
- Method. When you are purchasing a teeth whitening kit, you will need to first decide what kind of method you are interested in using. Some kits provide LED lights, stick whiteners or trays while others include a natural powder or paste.
- Sensitivity. It is important to read the reviews of the best teeth whitening kits if you are worried at all about teeth sensitivity. Teeth whitening kits use chemicals and if your teeth or gums are not healthy, you may be feeling the effects of the chemicals for days after using the kit. Try natural options first if you want to avoid excess pain during or after treatments.
- ADA approved. Always look for the ADA seal when purchasing a product for your teeth. The ADA tests products and analyzes their effectiveness and safety. Since teeth whitening kits are meant for use inside the mouth, it is especially important that you research the chemicals used and if adequate research has been completed. Even if you do not feel any effects right away, if you are using the product multiple times over a short time period, you could be unintentionally doing damage to your teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are teeth whitening kits and how do they work?
Teeth whitening kits do work and there are two kinds available, kits that are available over the counter and those that are prescribed by a dentist. If you are interested in purchasing a teeth whitening kit, you should first talk with your dentist to see if advanced whitening would benefit your specific needs.
There are two different methods of whitening. The first groups products that use bleaching agents that contain peroxides. These teeth whitening kits remove deep stains and can change your current overall tooth color. Over the counter whiteners contain less peroxide than prescription kits. If the over the counter whitening kit does not help with your teeth discoloration, prescription strength teeth whiteners might still be able to help.
The second uses an abrasion technique or chemical reaction to sand away surface stains. Each method works differently depending on the health and shade of your teeth.
Teeth that have a bonding or cavities that have been filled with a white color filling will not react to whitening. When looking for a teeth whitening kit, always look for the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval.
Are home teeth whitening kits safe?
Home teeth whitening is safe if you follow the directions given by the manufacturer of the teeth whitening product you have purchased. If you are interested in teeth whitening, your dentist can help you choose a product and method that will best suit your needs.
You cannot whiten your teeth on a routine basis. Whitening products should be used sparingly and only when deemed necessary. Teeth whitening products are meant for natural teeth and may have different effects on dentures, crowns, and implants.
While you may experience teeth sensitivity and irritated gums while using whitening products, it is important to contact your dentist if you experience side effects that seem extreme or painful. If you are currently in the process of dental work such as getting cavities filled or you are experiencing tooth pain, you should not use teeth whitening products.
Do teeth whitening LED lights work?
LED lights do work to whiten teeth. They are a safer alternative to using UV lights and LED lights can even whiten teeth faster than traditional UV.
How can I whiten my teeth at home fast?
The first step in keeping a whiter smile is to attend your regular dental appointments. You should also avoid any regular use of food and drinks that are prone to staining teeth such as tea, coffee, soda, wine, strong spices and fruits like blackberries.
Adversely, consuming foods such as apples, dairy, raw onions and abrasive veggies such as broccoli can help prevent staining. A clean diet can also help your teeth healthier, too. Brushing with an electric toothbrush and flossing on a regular basis can make your teeth respond better to a teeth whitening kit.
Once your teeth are healthy, you will want to decide on a home teeth whitening kit before you take the plunge on prescription whitening. Using a teeth whitening kit at home is very convenient and does not take a lot of time or effort. However, it is important to take your time and be precise when using the teeth whitening kit so you do not end up with a portion of your teeth whiter than the other.
Other Teeth Whitening Kits We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other teeth whitening kits. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best teeth whitening kits list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
- LED Teeth Whitening Kits
- Teeth Whitening Strips
- Whitening Pens, Syringes and Foam
- Natural Teeth Whitening Kits
LED Teeth Whitening Kits
Great for sensitive teeth, this whitening kit is perfect for removing surface stains with just one treatment. Whiten your top and bottom teeth at the same time.
Key Features:
- See results after one treatment
- Includes three treatments
- Works for sensitive teeth
- LED accelerator light with integrated timer
- Whiten top and bottom teeth at the same time
Cost: $27
MagicBrite Complete Teeth Whitening Kit
Get professional level whitening in the comfort of your own home. The kit contains everything you need for successful whitening treatments.
Key Features:
- Professional level whitening
- No prep kit
- Money back guarantee
Cost: $12
Snow Teeth Whitening Kit All-in-One At-Home Teeth Whitening System
Featured in multiple pop culture media outlets and used by top celebrities, this whitening kit works in as little as 9 minutes. No harmful chemicals and kit contains everything you need to get started.
Key Features:
- Whiter teeth in as little as 9 minutes
- No harmful chemicals or sensitivity
- Over 350,000 fans worldwide
- 5 year warranty
Cost: $200
Fairywill Professional Teeth Whitening Kit
Complete whitening kit for a professional experience at home. LED accelerator light makes your whitening sessions only 30 minutes.
Key Features:
- High efficiency LED light
- 35% carbamide peroxide
- Thermoform mouth trays included for a custom fit
Cost: $22
Teeth Whitening Trays by NovaWhite
NovaWhite teeth whitening tray features a custom fit. Each tray is BPA, latex, and odor free and contains no color additive.
Key Features:
- Custom fit trays
- Sanitizer case
- Great for sensitive teeth
- Money back guarantee
Cost: $15
VS1 Teeth Whitening All In One Kit
With the strongest LED lights on the market (16x), you will have whiter teeth in no time. Only takes 10 minutes per treatment.
Key Features:
- Made in the USA
- Gluten-free, kosher, safe for enamel
- No mess or molds
- 3 year warranty
- Smart phone compatible
Cost: $34
Teeth Whitening Strips
Teeth Whitening Strips by Dental Duty
Enamel safe formula that sits on the gum line so you don’t miss any stains. Easy to use and more affordable than name brand strips.
Key Features:
- Safe for enamel
- Affordable
- 30 minute treatments, will full results in 2-3 weeks
- Money back guarantee
Cost: $20
Professional Teeth Whitening Strips with Non-Slip Tech
Get whiter teeth in only one hour. Final results after 14 treatments.
Key Features:
- 100% enamel safe
- Up to 10 shades lighter
- Last up to 12 months
- Drink water and talk while teeth whitening
Cost: $18
Whitening Pens, Syringes and Foam
AsaVea Teeth Whitening Pen (2 Pack)
The whitening pens are easy to travel with or throw in your purse at only 5 inches long. Enjoy the mint flavor with 35% carbamide peroxide whitening power.
Key Features:
- One minute of daily use
- 35% carbamide peroxide
- Travel friendly
- Affordable, money back guarantee
Cost: $20
Four 10mL Syringes SenAllis Cosmetics Teeth Whitening Gel
Extra large syringes that last 5x longer than other brands. More effective and more affordable than whitening strips.
Key Features:
- Made in the USA
- Great for surface stains
- Easily apply to your toothbrush or a tray
- Contains over 70 applications
Cost: $14
Zoom Nite White 22% Teeth Whitening Gel
Great at-home whitening gel that is safe for sensitive mouths. Contains an ACP formulation that is clinically proven to rebuild enamel, reduce tooth sensitivity by 30% and adds luster by re-mineralizing teeth and reducing fadeback.
Key Features:
- ADA approved
- 22% carbamide peroxide for a medium strength whitening
- Can store for up to 1 year
- Special double-barreled syringes house bleaching agents that are mixed only when activated
Cost: $24
Teeth Whitening Pen (3 Pack) by Ariella
Clear tubes allow you to see how much whitening gel is left. The pens features a twists mechanism with a soft brush tip for easy application.
Key Features:
- One minute of daily use
- 35% carbamide peroxide
- Travel friendly
- Affordable, money back guarantee
Cost: $23
Opalescence PF Mint 35% Teeth Whitening
Each syringe contains 35% carbamide peroxide with mint flavor. The syringes have a shelf life of up to 2 years.
Key Features:
- 35% carbamide peroxide
- Mint flavor
- 2 year shelf life
Cost: $25
Teeth Whitening Pen, Natural Carbamide Peroxide Gel
Teeth can become an impressive 4 to 16 shades whiter. No need to visit the dentist with this natural whitening pen.
Key Features:
- Professional quality
- Teeth can become 4 to 16 shades whiter
- Prevents new stains from forming
- Money back guarantee
Cost: $13
WhiteFoam Clear Retainer Cleaner
Gradually whiten your teeth without the worry of tooth sensitivity. Works seamlessly with Invisalign, dentures and more.
Key Features:
- Only wearable aligner cleaner
- Kills 99.999% of bacteria
- Works under aligner buttons and attachments
Cost: $29
Manufactured by Ultradent, you will receive (8) 1.2 ML syringes. The whitening gel has a mint flavor and a 35% carbamide peroxide.
Key Features:
- 35% carbamide peroxide
- Mint flavor
- 8 treatments
Cost: $50
ProDental Teeth Whitening Gel Syringe Refill 8 Pack
Whitening syringes are as effective as LED lights without the risk of eye damage.
Key Features:
- 35% carbamide peroxide
- Buffered neutral pH gel to prevent any sensitivity
- Faster results compared to charcoal powder, whitening toothpaste, pens and strips
- Money back guarantee
Cost: $30
Natural Teeth Whitening Kits
Activated Charcoal Natural Teeth Whitener
This whitener doubles as a detoxifier for your mouth. Fight off plaque and gingivitis with the included bamboo toothbrush.
Key Features:
- FDA approved
- All natural, no fluoride or artificial colors
- More effective than charcoal based toothpaste
- Money back guarantee
Cost: $9
Activated Charcoal Teeth Whitening Powder – Product of UK by Sunatoria
This whitening powder contains 100% active organic ingredients. It is safe for teeth and enamel with the lowest abrasitivty score.
Key Features:
- 100% active organic ingredients
- Will not scratch teeth or damage enamel
- Manufactured in the UK
- FDA approved
Cost: $29
Activated Charcoal Teeth Whitening Powder
Food grade ingredients that are safe and easy on your teeth and gums. This whitener doubles as a breath freshener.
Key Features:
- All Natural, organic ingredients
- Non-abrasive
- Free bamboo toothbrush
- Money back guarantee
Cost: $9
