What are the benefits of teeth whitening strips?

Teeth-whitening strips are a comfortable, safe, and easy way to help whiten your teeth at home , says Peterson. You can also easily control the amount of lightening you get, adds Patel.

How do you apply teeth whitening strips?

“Make sure to brush your teeth before applying the strips. This will both help the strip better adhere to your teeth, and there’s also a chance that if you have plaque on your teeth it could stain further once the strip is applied,” says Peterson. Otherwise, they go on like a sticker onto your teeth, though Peterson cautions that they shouldn’t make contact with your gums.

How often should you use teeth whitening strips?

This depends on the exact product, says Peterson, since the type and concentration of active ingredients vary greatly. However, “if your mouth is healthy, you should be able to do a whitening regimen every four to six weeks,” she says. Patel suggests doing a whitening regimen after your professional cleaning since that’s when you’ll get the best results.

Are whitening strips good for teeth?

According to the the American Dental Association (ADA), whitening strips are safe as long as they are not left on for too long or used more frequently than recommended. Those with teeth sensitivity should also use whitening strips with caution or avoid use altogether.

What type of results can you expect from teeth whitening strips?

Expect gradual results from teeth whitening strips. Because teeth whitening strips contain a lower amount of active ingredients, diligence and patience are essential for achieving the desired result, notes Dr. Saad. These aren’t a one-and-done deal; you’ll need to use them daily for the entire period as directed. But if you can commit to doing that, you’re golden.

The 11 Best Teeth Whitening Strips of 2023

If you’ve been wishing your smile was a little brighter, you’re not alone. While there’s no shortage of over-the-counter and professional whitening options ranging from pens to gels to trays, whitening strips offer one of the easiest ways to score pearly (or, at the very least, pearlier) whites.

Because these strips break down stains chemically rather than scrub them off with abrasive ingredients (like whitening toothpaste), they can be less detrimental in the long run for people with sensitive teeth or gum recession, explains cosmetic dentist Dr. Lawrence Fung. Other pros include the convenience factor, not to mention that strips are generally a very wallet-friendly whitening option. At the end of the day, strips are a great first step into the world of tooth whitening and can be used to maintain the results of professional treatments, adds Dr. Fung.

We conducted hours of research on the best teeth whitening strips, taking a few fan-favorite products for a spin. Our testers used these strips for the full treatment time (about a week or two), noting how well they whitened and brightened their smiles and whether or not they caused any sensitivity. Our team then combined these results with expert recommendations and our own thorough research to narrow down the list of available options.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Crest 3DWhitestrips Professional Effects Strips at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Splurge:

Crest 3D White Whitestrips with Light at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Splurge, Runner-Up:

Auraglow Complete LED Whitening Kit at Auraglow.com

Jump to Review

Best for On-the-Go:

Moon Dissolving Whitening Strips

Jump to Review

Best for Sensitive Teeth:

Oral Essentials Oral Essentials Whitening Strips at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Sensitive Gums:

Spotlight Oral Care Teeth Whitening Strips at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Kit:

Lumineux Whitening Kit at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Fast-Acting:

Rembrandt 1 Week Teeth Whitening Kit at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Flavors:

Zimba Teeth Whitening Strips at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Men:

Spotlight Oral Care Whitening Strips at Spotlightoralcare.com

Jump to Review

In This Article

Our Picks
Final Verdict
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Byrdie

4.8

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Ulta View On Walmart

What We Like

Effective
No sensitivity
Adheres to teeth

What We Don't Like

Unpleasant taste

Both dentists we spoke with unanimously agree that these are the best whitening strips out there and laud them for their use of hydrogen peroxide. Most teeth whitening strips contain hydrogen peroxide, the only ingredient clinically proven to whiten teeth. It’s the same active found in professional whitening treatments, though at a much lower concentration. That does mean results will be less dramatic, generally only a few shades whiter, but the upshot is much less sensitivity—if any at all.

“These were the first on the market and remain tried-and-true, with extensive research and development behind them,” says cosmetic dentist Dr. Shahira Saad, who also likes how well they adhere to teeth. Dr. Fung agrees and points out that they’re easy to use and can help whiten teeth by up to two shades on average. And when you compare the price tag to the cost of a professional treatment, these are a no-brainer, especially for a teeth-whitening newbie.

Price at time of publish: $46

Number of Pieces: 44 strips, 2 1-hour express treatments | Cruelty-Free: No

4.8

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Walmart

Crest 3D White Whitestrips with Light Review

What We Like

Effective
Results are long-lasting
Starts working fast

What We Don't Like

Can cause sensitivity

This kit pairs the same efficacy of the brand’s beloved strips but kicks it up a notch with the inclusion of an LED light. For 10 days, you wear the strips for an hour, then hold the LED-light mouthpiece against the strip for another 10 minutes, five on top and five on the bottom.

The blue light works to help the whitening gel better penetrate the tooth enamel, ultimately upping the efficacy, particularly when it comes to removing super stubborn stains. Byrdie contributor Jenna Igneri is a big fan, raving about the whitening results and pointing out that she only experienced mild sensitivity that dissipated over 10 days.

Price at time of publish: $70

Number of Pieces: 1 light, 20 strips | Cruelty-Free: No

Auraglow

View On Auraglow.com

What We Like

Effective
Good alternative to hydrogen peroxide-based formulas

What We Don’t Like

Must wear device for 30 minutes per day

This is a nice kit that combines an LED light with strips that you wear for 30 minutes per day, says Dr. Nammy Patel, DDS, a holistic dentist in San Francisco. Do note that consistency helps guarantee results, and some might find it hard to fit that half-hour into their daily routine. On the other hand, at-home treatments are generally more convenient than in-office procedures. While it is on the pricier side, she says it’s very cost-effective all things considered. Plus, the whitening formula is carbamide peroxide-based, a good option for those who find hydrogen peroxide to cause sensitivity.

Price at time of publish: $80

Number of Pieces: 20 treatments | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Amazon

View on Ulta View On Amazon View On Nordstrom

What We Like

Dissolving formula
Good taste
Eco-friendly

What We Don't Like

Must wait 30 minutes before eating

These strips tout a unique technology that ensures they gradually dissolve after you apply them. As such, they’re ideal (and meant for) quick whitening boosts on the go, think on your way to a big event. (Though FYI, once they do dissolve, you’ll need to wait 30 minutes before eating or drinking.)

While they do contain hydrogen peroxide, Dr. Fung points out that because they’re dissolvable, the ingredient is in contact with the teeth for a shorter period of time, which reduces the effects. Still, he does note that they’re easy to use and eco-friendly since you’re not tossing the used strip in the trash. Also nice: They leave behind a fresh, peppermint flavor to freshen breath, although you must wait 30 minutes after use before eating or drinking.

Price at time of publish: $35

Number of Pieces: 56 strips | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Oral Essentials Lumineux Teeth Whitening Strips 21 Treatments Certified Non-Toxic

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Target View On Walmart

What We Like

Won't cause sensitivity
Natural ingredients
Can be used daily

What We Don't Like

May not give dramatic results

For those who have super sensitive teeth and simply can’t handle chemical bleaching, and/or are seeking a natural whitening option, these strips are an ideal choice. The brand is both dentist-formulated and made from naturally derived ingredients; these particular strips rely on a totally natural trifecta of coconut oil, sage oil, and lemon peel oil and are free of, among other things, sulfates, artificial colors, and artificial flavors. They’re a fan favorite, with reviewers raving about both the impressive whitening results and the complete lack of sensitivity.

Price at time of publish: $50

Number of Pieces: 42 strips | Cruelty-Free: Yes

People who should not use whitening strips include those with pre-existing oral health concerns, like periodontal disease or exposed roots. Those with cavities should also avoid using whitening strips. People with braces, crowns, or fillings should also avoid at-home whitening. Finally, anyone with allergies to peroxide should avoid using at-home whitening strips.

4.8

Spotlight Oral Care Dental Teeth Whitening Strips

Amazon

View On Amazon View On CVS View On Spotlightoralcare.com

What We Like

Helps soothe gums
Effective
Starts working fast

What We Don't Like

Contains alcohol

According to Dr. Saad, one of the biggest drawbacks to whitening strips is the potential for the gel to get on your gums and cause irritation. Enter this option, which comes with a comforting, vitamin E-based gum oil you can use after each strip application to soothe gums if they are feeling a little wonky. Dr. Fung is also a fan: “These are great as they contain hydrogen peroxide but leave out some of the unhealthy chemicals that may be in other strips such as BPA, sulfates, and parabens.” Do note that this product does contain alcohol, which can make them a bit more acidic than other options on the list.

Price at time of publish: $50

Number of Pieces: 28 strips, 1 comforting gel pen | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Oralessentials.com

What We Like

Good value
Eco-friendly

What We Don’t Like

Only comes with seven treatments

Patel is a fan of this brand, noting that this kit—which comes with the strips, plus a whitening mouthwash and toothpaste and toothbrush—is her favorite. She also lauds it for being eco-friendly, noting that the strips are made of plant-based material.

Price at time of publish: $45

Number of Pieces: 7 treatments | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Walmart

What We Like

Starts working fast
Strips cover front and back of teeth

What We Don’t Like

Can cause sensitivity

Dr. Bobbi Peterson, an orthodontist in Brooklyn, New York, admittedly prefers in-office whitening over at-home options but says this brand is her favorite for those who want OTC strips. You do have to wear the strips for 30 minutes, twice a day, but you’ll see results in just one week, ideal when you’re short on time.

Price at time of publish: $33

Peterson says the best effects come when pairing these strips with the Listerine Whitening Rinse pre- and post-brushing.

Number of Pieces: 28 strips, 14 treatments | Cruelty-Free: No

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Shopzimba.com

What We Like

Flavored
Adheres to teeth
Reasonably priced

What We Don't Like

Can cause sensitivity

An unpleasant flavor is one of the most common drawbacks to any tooth whitening strip. Enter these, which alleviate that issue and come in three yummy flavors: mint, peach, and coconut. The strips are also super grippy to avoid slipping and sliding and work gradually over the course of the two-week treatment period. However, if sensitivity is an issue for you, you might find this option a little uncomfortable. Our experts recommend that tooth sensitivity might warrant an exam to make sure that there's not an underlying issue.

Price at time of publish: $25

Number of Pieces: 28 strips | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Spotlightoralcare

View On Spotlightoralcare.com

What We Like

Effective
Larger size
Helps soothe gums

What We Don't Like

Gradual results

What's the difference between regular whitening strips and these for men? These hydrogen peroxide-based strips provide the same whitening benefits as Spotlight’s original teeth whitening strips, but they're slightly bigger in size. This allows them to cater to anatomical differences in a man's mouth, ensuring total coverage of all teeth for a maximum whitening outcome.

Price at time of publish: $50

Number of Pieces: 28 strips | Cruelty-Free: No

Walmart

View On Walmart View On Macy's View On Popwhitesmile.com

What We Like

Sensitivity-free
Natural formula

What We Don’t Like

Won’t actually remove or lift stains

We know, we know, this is supposed to be a list of the best strips, but if you just don’t like the feel of strips on your teeth, Patel says this is one of her favorite alternatives. The combination of the toothpaste and rinse really does help whiten teeth, she says, adding that she also likes it because it’s another all-natural option. While the formula isn’t actually bleaching teeth, the purple tint works by counteracting yellowing, making teeth appear up to four shades lighter (when the rinse and toothpaste are used together, twice daily, for two weeks).

Price at time of publish: $35

Number of Pieces: 4 ounces toothpaste; 16.9 ounces wash | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Final Verdict

Overall, we're giving top honors to a true classic (and dentist favorite): Crest's 3D White Professional Effects Whitestrips. Formulated with a low concentration of hydrogen peroxide, they're clinically proven to whiten your teeth and cause minimal sensitivity. If you're looking to step it up a notch, try Crest's 3D White Whitestrips with Light, which, as the name suggests, contains Crest's classic white strips along with an LED light device that ups their whitening abilities. If you're worried about sensitivity, you can't go wrong with the Lumineux Oral Essentials Whitening Strips, which are gentle and packed with natural ingredients.

Meet the Expert

Dr. Lawrence Fung is a cosmetic dentist and founder of Silicon Beach Dental in Culver City, California. He is also the clinical instructor at the Center for Esthetic Dentistry at UCLA.
Dr. Nammy Patel, DDS is a holistic dentist in San Francisco and operates a practice called Green Dentistry. She’s also the author of "Age With Style: Your Guide To A Youthful Smile & Healthy Living" and "Total Wellness, Understanding the Link Between Your Teeth and Your Health."
Dr. Bobbi Peterson is an orthodontist in Brooklyn, New York. She instructs new dental residents at Kings County Hospital and volunteers in community schools to teach students and staff dental health and to provide free screenings to middle school students.
Dr. Shahira Saad, DDS, is a cosmetic dentist at Silicon Beach Dental. She completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency in which she focused on cosmetic smile design as well as conservative restorative dentistry.

What to Look For in Teeth Whitening Strips

Adheres Well to Teeth

When it comes to teeth whitening strips, Dr. Fung says a product that adheres well to the teeth is the key to ensuring you get a uniform whitening effect. “The strips have to adhere tightly to your teeth to work properly,” he says. “If there are air bubbles, you may end up with a spot that’s still stained.”

Contains Potassium Nitrate

To prevent your teeth from feeling overly sensitive during your whitening process, Dr. Fung says to look for products that include potassium nitrate. “Teeth whitening uses peroxide, which can be sensitizing, and potassium nitrate is a great desensitizer and can help with the unexpected sensitivity that comes with whitening,” he says

Concentration of Peroxide

Sure, we all want a quick fix when it comes to whitening our teeth, but potent strips that promise results in a shorter period are more likely to lead to sensitivity. That said, it’s best to opt for “gentle” products that are worn for a longer period, like ten days to two weeks, especially when it comes to peroxide-based products. “Because high concentrations of peroxide are sensitizing, opt for a lower strength for more days,” says Dr. Fung. “This way, it’s a lower yet consistent [and therefore, effective] dose.”

FAQ

What are the benefits of teeth whitening strips?

Teeth-whitening strips are a comfortable, safe, and easy way to help whiten your teeth at home, says Peterson. You can also easily control the amount of lightening you get, adds Patel.
How do you apply teeth whitening strips?

“Make sure to brush your teeth before applying the strips. This will both help the strip better adhere to your teeth, and there’s also a chance that if you have plaque on your teeth it could stain further once the strip is applied,” says Peterson. Otherwise, they go on like a sticker onto your teeth, though Peterson cautions that they shouldn’t make contact with your gums.
How often should you use teeth whitening strips?

This depends on the exact product, says Peterson, since the type and concentration of active ingredients vary greatly. However, “if your mouth is healthy, you should be able to do a whitening regimen every four to six weeks,” she says. Patel suggests doing a whitening regimen after your professional cleaning since that’s when you’ll get the best results.
Are whitening strips good for teeth?

According to the the American Dental Association (ADA), whitening strips are safe as long as they are not left on for too long or used more frequently than recommended. Those with teeth sensitivity should also use whitening strips with caution or avoid use altogether.
What type of results can you expect from teeth whitening strips?

Expect gradual results from teeth whitening strips. Because teeth whitening strips contain a lower amount of active ingredients, diligence and patience are essential for achieving the desired result, notes Dr. Saad. These aren’t a one-and-done deal; you’ll need to use them daily for the entire period as directed. But if you can commit to doing that, you’re golden.

Why Trust Byrdie

Byrdie contributor Melanie Rud has over a decade of experience in the beauty industry, writing for some of the biggest magazines and websites out there. She uses a set of whitening strips twice a year, after her professional dental cleanings or as a prep before any type of major event.

According to our Diversity Pledge, 15% of products in our newly-published market roundups will feature Black-owned and/or Black-founded brands. At the time of publishing, we were not able to find any teeth whitening strips from a Black-owned and/or Black-founded business. If you know of one we should consider, please email us at contact@byrdie.com, and we will evaluate the product ASAP.

The 15 Best Teeth Whitening Products and Kits of 2023

Article Sources

Byrdie takes every opportunity to use high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.

Epple M, Meyer F, Enax J. A critical review of modern concepts for teeth whitening. Dent J (Basel). 2019;7(3):79. doi:10.3390/dj7030079
Gottenbos B, de Witz C, Heintzmann S, Born M, Hötzl S. Insights into blue light accelerated tooth whitening. Heliyon. 2021;7(2):e05913. doi:10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e05913

Best Overall

Crest 3DWhitestrips Professional Effects Teeth Whitening Strips

Best Splurge

Crest 3D White Whitestrips with Light

Best Splurge, Runner-Up

Auraglow Complete LED Whitening Kit

Best for On-the-Go

Moon Dissolving Whitening Strips

Best for Sensitive Teeth

Oral Essentials Lumineux Teeth Whitening Strips 21 Treatments Certified Non-Toxic

Best for Sensitive Gums

Spotlight Oral Care Teeth Whitening Strips

Best Kit

Lumineux Whitening Kit

Best Fast-Acting

Rembrandt 1 Week Teeth Whitening Kit

Best Flavors

Zimba Teeth Whitening Strips

Best for Men

Spotlight Oral Care Men's Whitening Strips

Best Alternative to Strips

Popwhite Purple Power Duo

Your Guide to Teeth Whitening

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