The 9 Best Teeth Whitening Strips, Tested and Reviewed

Mar. 15, 2025

In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsAdd to CartOthers We TriedWhat to KnowBehind the ScenesFAQWhy Trust PEOPLE?What Is PEOPLE Tested?

In This ArticleView All

In This Article

View All

Our Top Picks

Reviews

Add to Cart

Others We Tried

What to Know

Behind the Scenes

FAQ

Why Trust PEOPLE?

What Is PEOPLE Tested?

Photo:People / Alli Waataja

People / Alli Waataja

Whether we’re sipping a latte, eating a bowl of pasta doused in marinara, or munching on dark chocolate, our pearly whites are constantly in contact with teeth-staining foods. And, just like we might turn to at-home skin treatments for improving skin tone anderasing dark spots, we can use at-home treatments, such as teeth whitening strips to erase yellowing and provide a brighter smile.The More You KnowCrest 3DWhitestrips 1-Hour Expressis on sale now for 43% off the regular price.Whitening strips are simple to apply — most only need 30 minutes to work — and cost effective, as most options cost less than $60 for a week’s worth of treatment. Our PEOPLE Tested team tried 23 different teeth whitening strips, considering each for ease of use, effectiveness, convenience, comfort, and value, to find the best ones. Read on to discover the best teeth whitening strips PEOPLE Tested.Our Top PicksBest Overall:Crest 3DWhitestrips 1-Hour Express at CVS$56Jump to ReviewBest Overall (Cheaper):SALERembrandt 1 Week Teeth Whitening Kit at Amazon$33$28Jump to ReviewBest Express Whitening:Crest 3DWhitestrips Radiant Express Teeth Whitening Kit at Walmart$50Jump to ReviewBest Value:Persmax Teeth Whitening Strips at Amazon$14Jump to ReviewBest for Sensitive Teeth:Boka Sensitive Smile Whitening Strips at Amazon$30Jump to ReviewBest Quick-Dissolving:Moon Oral Beauty Dissolving Whitening Strips at Amazon$40Jump to ReviewBest Dentist-Approved:SALECrest 3DWhitestrips Glamorous White at Amazon$45$29Jump to ReviewEasiest to Apply:Burst Teeth Whitening Strips at Burstoralcare.comJump to ReviewBest Flavor Options:SALEZimba Teeth Whitening Strips at Amazon$25$20Jump to ReviewBest Electric Toothbrush:Oral-B Genius X Limited at Amazon$200Jump to Review

Whether we’re sipping a latte, eating a bowl of pasta doused in marinara, or munching on dark chocolate, our pearly whites are constantly in contact with teeth-staining foods. And, just like we might turn to at-home skin treatments for improving skin tone anderasing dark spots, we can use at-home treatments, such as teeth whitening strips to erase yellowing and provide a brighter smile.

The More You KnowCrest 3DWhitestrips 1-Hour Expressis on sale now for 43% off the regular price.

The More You Know

Crest 3DWhitestrips 1-Hour Expressis on sale now for 43% off the regular price.

Whitening strips are simple to apply — most only need 30 minutes to work — and cost effective, as most options cost less than $60 for a week’s worth of treatment. Our PEOPLE Tested team tried 23 different teeth whitening strips, considering each for ease of use, effectiveness, convenience, comfort, and value, to find the best ones. Read on to discover the best teeth whitening strips PEOPLE Tested.

Our Top PicksBest Overall:Crest 3DWhitestrips 1-Hour Express at CVS$56Jump to ReviewBest Overall (Cheaper):SALERembrandt 1 Week Teeth Whitening Kit at Amazon$33$28Jump to ReviewBest Express Whitening:Crest 3DWhitestrips Radiant Express Teeth Whitening Kit at Walmart$50Jump to ReviewBest Value:Persmax Teeth Whitening Strips at Amazon$14Jump to ReviewBest for Sensitive Teeth:Boka Sensitive Smile Whitening Strips at Amazon$30Jump to ReviewBest Quick-Dissolving:Moon Oral Beauty Dissolving Whitening Strips at Amazon$40Jump to ReviewBest Dentist-Approved:SALECrest 3DWhitestrips Glamorous White at Amazon$45$29Jump to ReviewEasiest to Apply:Burst Teeth Whitening Strips at Burstoralcare.comJump to ReviewBest Flavor Options:SALEZimba Teeth Whitening Strips at Amazon$25$20Jump to ReviewBest Electric Toothbrush:Oral-B Genius X Limited at Amazon$200Jump to Review

Best Overall:Crest 3DWhitestrips 1-Hour Express at CVS$56Jump to ReviewBest Overall (Cheaper):SALERembrandt 1 Week Teeth Whitening Kit at Amazon$33$28Jump to ReviewBest Express Whitening:Crest 3DWhitestrips Radiant Express Teeth Whitening Kit at Walmart$50Jump to ReviewBest Value:Persmax Teeth Whitening Strips at Amazon$14Jump to ReviewBest for Sensitive Teeth:Boka Sensitive Smile Whitening Strips at Amazon$30Jump to ReviewBest Quick-Dissolving:Moon Oral Beauty Dissolving Whitening Strips at Amazon$40Jump to ReviewBest Dentist-Approved:SALECrest 3DWhitestrips Glamorous White at Amazon$45$29Jump to ReviewEasiest to Apply:Burst Teeth Whitening Strips at Burstoralcare.comJump to ReviewBest Flavor Options:SALEZimba Teeth Whitening Strips at Amazon$25$20Jump to ReviewBest Electric Toothbrush:Oral-B Genius X Limited at Amazon$200Jump to Review

Best Overall:Crest 3DWhitestrips 1-Hour Express at CVS$56Jump to Review

Best Overall:Crest 3DWhitestrips 1-Hour Express at CVS$56

Best Overall:

Best Overall (Cheaper):SALERembrandt 1 Week Teeth Whitening Kit at Amazon$33$28Jump to Review

Best Overall (Cheaper):SALERembrandt 1 Week Teeth Whitening Kit at Amazon$33$28

Best Overall (Cheaper):

SALE

Best Express Whitening:Crest 3DWhitestrips Radiant Express Teeth Whitening Kit at Walmart$50Jump to Review

Best Express Whitening:Crest 3DWhitestrips Radiant Express Teeth Whitening Kit at Walmart$50

Best Express Whitening:

Best Value:Persmax Teeth Whitening Strips at Amazon$14Jump to Review

Best Value:Persmax Teeth Whitening Strips at Amazon$14

Best Value:

Best for Sensitive Teeth:Boka Sensitive Smile Whitening Strips at Amazon$30Jump to Review

Best for Sensitive Teeth:Boka Sensitive Smile Whitening Strips at Amazon$30

Best for Sensitive Teeth:

Best Quick-Dissolving:Moon Oral Beauty Dissolving Whitening Strips at Amazon$40Jump to Review

Best Quick-Dissolving:Moon Oral Beauty Dissolving Whitening Strips at Amazon$40

Best Quick-Dissolving:

Best Dentist-Approved:SALECrest 3DWhitestrips Glamorous White at Amazon$45$29Jump to Review

Best Dentist-Approved:SALECrest 3DWhitestrips Glamorous White at Amazon$45$29

Best Dentist-Approved:

Easiest to Apply:Burst Teeth Whitening Strips at Burstoralcare.comJump to Review

Easiest to Apply:Burst Teeth Whitening Strips at Burstoralcare.com

Easiest to Apply:

Best Flavor Options:SALEZimba Teeth Whitening Strips at Amazon$25$20Jump to Review

Best Flavor Options:SALEZimba Teeth Whitening Strips at Amazon$25$20

Best Flavor Options:

Best Electric Toothbrush:Oral-B Genius X Limited at Amazon$200Jump to Review

Best Electric Toothbrush:Oral-B Genius X Limited at Amazon$200

Best Electric Toothbrush:

Best OverallCrest 3DWhitestrips 1-Hour ExpressPHOTO: Amazon$56 at CVS$45 at Walgreens$54 at Riteaid.com

Best OverallCrest 3DWhitestrips 1-Hour Express

Best Overall

Crest 3DWhitestrips 1-Hour Express

PHOTO: Amazon

$56 at CVS$45 at Walgreens$54 at Riteaid.com

Star QualitiesStrips stick to the teeth wellDon’t cause teeth or gum sensitivityDon’t touch the gumsRed FlagsThe most expensive option on our list

Star QualitiesStrips stick to the teeth wellDon’t cause teeth or gum sensitivityDon’t touch the gums

Strips stick to the teeth well

Don’t cause teeth or gum sensitivity

Don’t touch the gums

Red FlagsThe most expensive option on our list

The most expensive option on our list

Throughout the testing period, we found that one of the most impressive aspects of these strips — especially considering the lengthier one-hour treatment time — is the tacky surface, which sticks to teeth effectively for extended periods. We also loved the shape and size of the strips as they never touched our gums and, therefore, didn’t increase the risk of sensitivity. The strips are on the more expensive side but we think they’re worth the price, considering you can use them as both a one-time treatmentandover time.

Number of Treatments:7 |Time:60 minutes |Key Ingredients:Hydrogen peroxide

PHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson

Best Overall (Cheaper)Rembrandt 1 Week Teeth Whitening KitPHOTO: Walmart$33$28 at Amazon

Best Overall (Cheaper)Rembrandt 1 Week Teeth Whitening Kit

Best Overall (Cheaper)

Rembrandt 1 Week Teeth Whitening Kit

PHOTO: Walmart

$33$28 at Amazon

One-week treatment plan

Strips didn’t have a lot of foaming or sticky residue

Red FlagsNot the greatest fit

Not the greatest fit

Number of Treatments:14 |Time:30 minutes |Key Ingredients:Hydrogen peroxide

PHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson

Best Express WhiteningCrest 3DWhitestrips Radiant Express Teeth Whitening KitPHOTO: Amazon$50 at WalmartStar QualitiesEasy application processThin strips have no-slip grips that stay putOur teeth lightened after one useRed FlagsNot suitable for sensitive teethRequires one hour of wear each day during treatmentIf you’re looking for rapid results, we recommend the Crest 3DWhitestrips Radiant Express At-Home Teeth Whitening Kit. You use this kit for one hour each day for two weeks to achieve professional-level whitening at home. After just one use, we noticed our teeth were two shades whiter and significantly brighter and more even in tone than before.The application process was a breeze and only took about 30 seconds to get the strips situated on the top and bottom teeth. With no-slip grips, the strips stay in place for the allotted time — which is, admittedly, on the longer side — and are super thin so they’re comfortable and barely noticeable while wearing. (You could even toss these on before your morning commute.)Although highly effective, we would not recommend this kit for anyone with sensitive teeth. Our tester noticed issues with sensitivity after the first use and was, unfortunately, unable to finish the treatment plan. However, if you don’t struggle with teeth sensitivity, have an hour to spare each day, and want whiter teeth in two weeks, these strips will get the job done.Number of Treatments:14 |Time:60 minutes |Key Ingredients:Hydrogen peroxidePHOTO: People / Sarah FelbinPHOTO: People / Sarah Felbin

Best Express WhiteningCrest 3DWhitestrips Radiant Express Teeth Whitening KitPHOTO: Amazon$50 at Walmart

Best Express WhiteningCrest 3DWhitestrips Radiant Express Teeth Whitening Kit

Best Express Whitening

Crest 3DWhitestrips Radiant Express Teeth Whitening Kit

$50 at Walmart

Star QualitiesEasy application processThin strips have no-slip grips that stay putOur teeth lightened after one useRed FlagsNot suitable for sensitive teethRequires one hour of wear each day during treatment

Star QualitiesEasy application processThin strips have no-slip grips that stay putOur teeth lightened after one use

Easy application process

Thin strips have no-slip grips that stay put

Our teeth lightened after one use

Red FlagsNot suitable for sensitive teethRequires one hour of wear each day during treatment

Not suitable for sensitive teeth

Requires one hour of wear each day during treatment

If you’re looking for rapid results, we recommend the Crest 3DWhitestrips Radiant Express At-Home Teeth Whitening Kit. You use this kit for one hour each day for two weeks to achieve professional-level whitening at home. After just one use, we noticed our teeth were two shades whiter and significantly brighter and more even in tone than before.

The application process was a breeze and only took about 30 seconds to get the strips situated on the top and bottom teeth. With no-slip grips, the strips stay in place for the allotted time — which is, admittedly, on the longer side — and are super thin so they’re comfortable and barely noticeable while wearing. (You could even toss these on before your morning commute.)

Although highly effective, we would not recommend this kit for anyone with sensitive teeth. Our tester noticed issues with sensitivity after the first use and was, unfortunately, unable to finish the treatment plan. However, if you don’t struggle with teeth sensitivity, have an hour to spare each day, and want whiter teeth in two weeks, these strips will get the job done.

Number of Treatments:14 |Time:60 minutes |Key Ingredients:Hydrogen peroxide

PHOTO: People / Sarah FelbinPHOTO: People / Sarah Felbin

Best ValuePersmax Teeth Whitening StripsPHOTO: Amazon$14 at Amazon

Best ValuePersmax Teeth Whitening Strips

Best Value

Persmax Teeth Whitening Strips

$14 at Amazon

Star QualitiesGrip the teeth wellOur teeth brightened after the first useComfortable to wear

Grip the teeth well

Our teeth brightened after the first use

Comfortable to wear

PHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson

The More You Know“The average cost of getting your teeth professionally whitened ranges from $650 to $1,000, and professionally dispensed kits that you get from the dentist’s office average $100 to $400,” saysDr. Brittany Ang, DMD, MDS, MBS, of Curve Orthodontics in New Jersey. She adds that, although an in-office whitening treatment is more involved, at-home whitening strips can yield effective results.

“The average cost of getting your teeth professionally whitened ranges from $650 to $1,000, and professionally dispensed kits that you get from the dentist’s office average $100 to $400,” saysDr. Brittany Ang, DMD, MDS, MBS, of Curve Orthodontics in New Jersey. She adds that, although an in-office whitening treatment is more involved, at-home whitening strips can yield effective results.

Best for Sensitive TeethBoka Sensitive Smile Whitening StripsPHOTO: Amazon$30 at Amazon

Best for Sensitive TeethBoka Sensitive Smile Whitening Strips

Best for Sensitive Teeth

Boka Sensitive Smile Whitening Strips

$30 at Amazon

Star QualitiesComfortable fit that doesn’t irritate teeth or gumsTasty flavorGood value

Comfortable fit that doesn’t irritate teeth or gums

Tasty flavor

Good value

Application is tricky for beginners

Teeth whitening isn’t always the most gentle process, but these Boka whitening strips let you brighten your pearly whites without irritating sensitive gums and teeth. The strips feature a comfortable fit that doesn’t interfere with the gums and a non-toxic formula that brightens teeth (though the effects are slight, so they work better for maintenance). Additionally, these strips feature a tasty flavor — which is certainly a perk for oral care — and leave your mouth feeling minty fresh after use.

Just note: If you’re new to teeth whitening strips, the application process can take some getting used to. Once we got the hang of things, it took us around 30 seconds to adhere both strips to our teeth.

Number of Treatments:16 |Time:30 minutes |Key Ingredients:Phthalimido-peroxy-caproic acid, nano-hydroxyapatite

PHOTO: People / Tatiana KennedyPHOTO: People / Tatiana KennedyPHOTO: People / Tatiana Kennedy

Best Quick-DissolvingMoon Oral Beauty Dissolving Whitening StripsPHOTO: Ulta$40 at Amazon$40 at UltaView on Moonoralbeauty.comStar QualitiesGreat for sensitive teeth and gumsResults after just one useTreatment time is only 15 minutesRed FlagsFelt a little slimy on our teethDissolving strips mean you don’t have to set a timer and peel them off. If that sounds more like your type, Moon Oral Care Dissolving Whitening Strips impressed us during testing. These lightened our teeth after just one session and are formulated with gentle hydrogen peroxide, making them another great option for sensitive teeth and gums. The super-thin feel is barely noticeable on the teeth, making them one of the more comfortable options on our list.While the strips get a little slimy when dissolving, that’s normal for this type of treatment. Plus, we love how effective they are at brightening teeth and removing stains, and the treatment time is only 15 minutes, so they’re well worth a little bit of slime.Number of Treatments:28 |Time:15 minutes |Key Ingredients:Hydrogen peroxidePHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson

Best Quick-DissolvingMoon Oral Beauty Dissolving Whitening StripsPHOTO: Ulta$40 at Amazon$40 at UltaView on Moonoralbeauty.com

Best Quick-DissolvingMoon Oral Beauty Dissolving Whitening Strips

Best Quick-Dissolving

Moon Oral Beauty Dissolving Whitening Strips

PHOTO: Ulta

$40 at Amazon$40 at UltaView on Moonoralbeauty.com

Star QualitiesGreat for sensitive teeth and gumsResults after just one useTreatment time is only 15 minutesRed FlagsFelt a little slimy on our teeth

Star QualitiesGreat for sensitive teeth and gumsResults after just one useTreatment time is only 15 minutes

Great for sensitive teeth and gums

Results after just one use

Treatment time is only 15 minutes

Red FlagsFelt a little slimy on our teeth

Felt a little slimy on our teeth

Dissolving strips mean you don’t have to set a timer and peel them off. If that sounds more like your type, Moon Oral Care Dissolving Whitening Strips impressed us during testing. These lightened our teeth after just one session and are formulated with gentle hydrogen peroxide, making them another great option for sensitive teeth and gums. The super-thin feel is barely noticeable on the teeth, making them one of the more comfortable options on our list.

While the strips get a little slimy when dissolving, that’s normal for this type of treatment. Plus, we love how effective they are at brightening teeth and removing stains, and the treatment time is only 15 minutes, so they’re well worth a little bit of slime.

Number of Treatments:28 |Time:15 minutes |Key Ingredients:Hydrogen peroxide

Best Dentist-ApprovedCrest 3DWhitestrips Glamorous WhitePHOTO: Amazon$45$29 at Amazon$40 at TargetView on Crest.comStar QualitiesBrightened teeth after just one useDidn’t give us teeth or gum sensitivityGreat for long-term maintenanceRed FlagsBottom strip isn’t as secure as the topDentists like the Crest 3DWhitestrips Glamorous White, and after testing them for a couple of weeks, so do we. These Crest Whitestrips are formulated with hydrogen peroxide for a gentle yet effective glow-up and take only 30 minutes to cure on the teeth — but we noticed a difference after just one use and without experiencing sensitivity. We love these as both an at-home whitening treatment and for maintenance, as they work effectively at reducing stain build-up. After 14 treatments, our teeth brightened a shade from S10 to S8.While they have a comfortable fit, we found that the bottom strips weren’t as secure as the top strips, so that’s definitely something to keep in mind if you have fit concerns. Additionally, the strips felt a bit slimy halfway through the treatment time, so if you’re sensitive to texture, we recommend trying something else, such as theCrest 3DWhitestrips Vivid White Teeth Whitening Kit.Number of Treatments:14 |Time:30 minutes |Key Ingredients:Hydrogen peroxidePHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson

Best Dentist-ApprovedCrest 3DWhitestrips Glamorous WhitePHOTO: Amazon$45$29 at Amazon$40 at TargetView on Crest.com

Best Dentist-ApprovedCrest 3DWhitestrips Glamorous White

Best Dentist-Approved

Crest 3DWhitestrips Glamorous White

$45$29 at Amazon$40 at TargetView on Crest.com

Star QualitiesBrightened teeth after just one useDidn’t give us teeth or gum sensitivityGreat for long-term maintenanceRed FlagsBottom strip isn’t as secure as the top

Star QualitiesBrightened teeth after just one useDidn’t give us teeth or gum sensitivityGreat for long-term maintenance

Brightened teeth after just one use

Didn’t give us teeth or gum sensitivity

Great for long-term maintenance

Red FlagsBottom strip isn’t as secure as the top

Bottom strip isn’t as secure as the top

Dentists like the Crest 3DWhitestrips Glamorous White, and after testing them for a couple of weeks, so do we. These Crest Whitestrips are formulated with hydrogen peroxide for a gentle yet effective glow-up and take only 30 minutes to cure on the teeth — but we noticed a difference after just one use and without experiencing sensitivity. We love these as both an at-home whitening treatment and for maintenance, as they work effectively at reducing stain build-up. After 14 treatments, our teeth brightened a shade from S10 to S8.

While they have a comfortable fit, we found that the bottom strips weren’t as secure as the top strips, so that’s definitely something to keep in mind if you have fit concerns. Additionally, the strips felt a bit slimy halfway through the treatment time, so if you’re sensitive to texture, we recommend trying something else, such as theCrest 3DWhitestrips Vivid White Teeth Whitening Kit.

Easiest to ApplyBurst Teeth Whitening StripsPHOTO: AmazonView on Burstoralcare.com

Easiest to ApplyBurst Teeth Whitening Strips

Easiest to Apply

Burst Teeth Whitening Strips

View on Burstoralcare.com

Star QualitiesEasy and convenient to useStrips have a barely-there feelInclude soothing aloe vera and coconut oil

Easy and convenient to use

Strips have a barely-there feel

Include soothing aloe vera and coconut oil

For the easiest application, consider Burst Oral Care Teeth Whitening Strips, which are a great value for 10 treatments. We love these because they are not only super convenient, but they have an excellent fit and a barely-there feeling that stays put the entire treatment time. In addition to their value and excellent application, these whitening strips are formulated with only 6 percent hydrogen peroxide, so they’re another good option for sensitive gums and teeth (though this also means they aren’t strong enough to brighten teeth beyond a few shades). Plus, they have nourishing and soothing aloe vera and coconut oil for added gum and teeth perks.

Number of Treatments:10 |Time:15 minutes |Key Ingredients:Hydrogen peroxide

Best Flavor OptionsZimba Teeth Whitening StripsPHOTO: ZIMBA$25$20 at Amazon$25$20 at WalmartView on Shopzimba.comStar QualitiesEasy application processGreat for maintenanceRed FlagsNot the best fitIf the taste and consistency of teeth-whitening strips are off-putting to you, then these flavored vegan strips from Zimba might be worth a shot. You can choose from six different flavors, including mint, coconut, and watermelon. Although we found the application process easy and the flavors appealing, the strips were slightly uncomfortable and didn’t feel like a natural fit on our teeth. Plus, we only noticed our teeth got a shade or two whiter after two weeks of consistent wear, so they’re better for maintenance.Number of Treatments:14 |Time:30 minutes |Key Ingredients:Hydrogen peroxidePHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Cameron Silva

Best Flavor OptionsZimba Teeth Whitening StripsPHOTO: ZIMBA$25$20 at Amazon$25$20 at WalmartView on Shopzimba.com

Best Flavor OptionsZimba Teeth Whitening Strips

Best Flavor Options

Zimba Teeth Whitening Strips

PHOTO: ZIMBA

$25$20 at Amazon$25$20 at WalmartView on Shopzimba.com

Star QualitiesEasy application processGreat for maintenanceRed FlagsNot the best fit

Star QualitiesEasy application processGreat for maintenance

Great for maintenance

Red FlagsNot the best fit

Not the best fit

If the taste and consistency of teeth-whitening strips are off-putting to you, then these flavored vegan strips from Zimba might be worth a shot. You can choose from six different flavors, including mint, coconut, and watermelon. Although we found the application process easy and the flavors appealing, the strips were slightly uncomfortable and didn’t feel like a natural fit on our teeth. Plus, we only noticed our teeth got a shade or two whiter after two weeks of consistent wear, so they’re better for maintenance.

PHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Cameron Silva

Found your new go-to teeth whitening strips? There’s more where that came from. Check out these other PEOPLE-Tested beauty and oral health products, rigorously tested so you don’t have to take chances.

Oral-B Genius X Limited$200 at Amazon$190 at WalmartCrest 3D Sensitive Teeth Whitening Kit$50$34 at AmazonView on Target$32 at WalmartNeutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Mask$3 at Target$3 at Walmart$6 at UltaHyper Skin Hyper Even Vitamin C Serum$80 at Amazon$36 at Sephora$58 at Revolve

Oral-B Genius X Limited$200 at Amazon$190 at Walmart

Oral-B Genius X Limited

$200 at Amazon$190 at Walmart

Crest 3D Sensitive Teeth Whitening Kit$50$34 at AmazonView on Target$32 at Walmart

Crest 3D Sensitive Teeth Whitening Kit

$50$34 at AmazonView on Target$32 at Walmart

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Mask$3 at Target$3 at Walmart$6 at Ulta

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Mask

$3 at Target$3 at Walmart$6 at Ulta

Hyper Skin Hyper Even Vitamin C Serum$80 at Amazon$36 at Sephora$58 at Revolve

Hyper Skin Hyper Even Vitamin C Serum

$80 at Amazon$36 at Sephora$58 at Revolve

Other Teeth Whitening Strips We Tried

People / Jhett Thompson

What to Know About Teeth Whitening Strips

Ingredients

To find the most effective teeth whitening strips, Ang says to consider the formula and look for ingredients such as hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide. “These are the two most common whitening agents used in both professional and at-home treatments since they have been proven clinically effective at whitening teeth,” she tells PEOPLE.

With this in mind, all our top picks — including our best overall pick, theCrest 3DWhitestrips 1-Hour Express— are formulated with hydrogen peroxide for an effective at-home teeth whitening solution.

Concentration

In addition to ingredients, Ang says to look at the concentration of active whitening ingredients, as a higher concentration means faster results. “Most over-the-counter treatments will have a concentration under 16 percent peroxide,” she explains. For fast-acting teeth whitening strips, consider theCrest 3DWhitestrips 1-Hour Express, which is formulated with 10 percent hydrogen peroxide to remove stains in a single one-hour session with results lasting up to six months.

Treatment Time

Since teeth whitening strips are supposed to be convenient, it’s also worth looking at the treatment commitment and how long it takes to see results. In most cases, whitening strips take anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes, twice daily, over one or two weeks. However, quicker solutions, such as theCrest 3DWhitestrips 1-Hour Express, provide a whitening effect in a single one-hour session. According toDr. Michael Kosdon, DDS, a cosmetic dentist based in New York City, the time frame doesn’t mean a formula is better or worse. It’s about choosing a product that fits into your preferred time frame for results.

To find the best teeth whitening strips, our PEOPLE Tested team researched dozens of options before narrowing it down to 23 top picks. From there, we conducted real-world testing based on the strips’ individual treatment times and instructions to better understand how each formula works at lifting stains and brightening teeth. Throughout the testing period, we carefully considered the ease of use, effectiveness, convenience, and value while also making note of comfort to find options for sensitive gums and teeth, too.

People / Tamara Staples

Frequently Asked Questions

Our top pick for the best whitening strips for fast results is theCrest 3DWhitestrips 1-Hour Express. These teeth whitening strips are designed for single-use sessions and can whiten teeth effectively in just one hour, with results lasting for up to six months. For something a little less expensive, we also loved thePersmax Teeth Whitening Strips, which were comfortable to wear and improved our teeth’s appearance immediately.

If you’re unsure about whether or not whitening strips can transform your teeth color, Ang recommends consulting with a dentist to find out what kind of staining (if any) you might have and if white strips are the best solution.

Just like when usingwhitening pensand otherwhitening products, you should always follow the recommended treatment time when treating your teeth with strips. “If whitening strips are left on the teeth longer than the recommended time, this can lead to potential side effects including gum irritation, tooth sensitivity, uneven whitening results, and even potential gastrointestinal upset due to ingesting the active ingredients,” says Ang. Additionally, overuse or extended use beyond what is recommended can damage the tooth’s enamel.If you experience any of these side effects or a negative reaction to whitening strips, Ang says it’s advised to discontinue use and discuss concerns with your dentist.

Just like when usingwhitening pensand otherwhitening products, you should always follow the recommended treatment time when treating your teeth with strips. “If whitening strips are left on the teeth longer than the recommended time, this can lead to potential side effects including gum irritation, tooth sensitivity, uneven whitening results, and even potential gastrointestinal upset due to ingesting the active ingredients,” says Ang. Additionally, overuse or extended use beyond what is recommended can damage the tooth’s enamel.

If you experience any of these side effects or a negative reaction to whitening strips, Ang says it’s advised to discontinue use and discuss concerns with your dentist.

Rinsing after whitening strips is recommended to remove any excess whitening gel on the teeth. “This could help prevent the excess gel from migrating to the gums and causing irritation,” Ang says.

You can definitely brush your teeth with yourfavorite toothpasteand use awater flosserafter wearing whitening strips to remove the residual whitening gel from the teeth. However, Ang says to keep in mind that active gels can cause damage to the tooth if brushing is aggressive or a hard-bristle toothbrush is used. “Use a soft or even extra-soft bristle toothbrush and be cognizant to gently brush all surfaces to prevent damage to the teeth and gums,” she explains. “Brushing gently and with a soft-bristle toothbrush will not interfere or affect whitening unless the manufacturer specifically instructs not to brush after the use of the strips.

Jessie Quinnis a contributing writer for PEOPLE and has written for publications such as Byrdie, InStyle, The Spruce, NYLON, and more. When covering the best teeth whitening strips, Jessie thoroughly reviewed the PEOPLE Tested team’s notes and insights from the testing period to get an idea of how well each formula worked and carefully considered their treatment time, price, value, ease of use, and comfort, too. Additionally, Jessie connected with dental experts to learn more about the benefits of teeth whitening strips and what to consider when shopping for safe and effective at-home whitening treatments.Kayla Kitts, a shopping editor for PEOPLE, updated this article with the most recent insights from our PEOPLE Tested lab, including two new top picks.

Our Expert PanelDr. Brittany Ang, DMD, MDS, MBS, is a board-certified orthodontist at New Jersey’s Curve Orthodontics.Dr. Michael Kosdon,DDS, is an NYC-based cosmetic dentist and an active member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) and the American Dental Association (ADA).

Our Expert Panel

Dr. Brittany Ang, DMD, MDS, MBS, is a board-certified orthodontist at New Jersey’s Curve Orthodontics.Dr. Michael Kosdon,DDS, is an NYC-based cosmetic dentist and an active member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) and the American Dental Association (ADA).

We created thePEOPLE Tested seal of approvalto help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.

In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.

source: people.com