EXPERT PICK
Crest 3D White Whitestrips Professional Effects
EXPERT PICK
Crest 3D White Whitestrips Professional Effects
Credit: CrestPros
- Effective
- Fast results
Cons
- Reviewers say that it might irritate sensitive gums
Wang recommends these whitening strips from Crest; he says it's one of the most popular options because it actually works. "They work effectively by adhering to your teeth and bleaching away stains, providing noticeable results in a few weeks of consistent use," he says.
EXPERT PICK
Crest 3D Whitestrips Glamorous White At-Home Teeth Whitening Kit
EXPERT PICK
Crest 3D Whitestrips Glamorous White At-Home Teeth Whitening Kit
Credit: CrestPros
- Fast results
- Great value
Crest is one of the most trusted brands out there when it comes to anything teeth-related. Lowenberg says these white strips are an effective option on a budget. "The bleach within the strips remains in contact with the tooth enamel long enough to deliver noticeable results," he explains. "They contain a flex-fit Advanced Seal Technology no-slip grip which helps the strips stay put so you can talk and drink water while whitening teeth. They give an immediate boost to your smile and when you know your teeth look whiter, you’re going to naturally go around smiling."
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BAZAAR EDITORS' FAVORITE
Lumineux Teeth Whitening Strips 21 Treatments
BAZAAR EDITORS' FAVORITE
Lumineux Teeth Whitening Strips 21 Treatments
Credit: LumineuxPros
- Eco-friendly
Cons
- Reviewers say the gel can be too sticky
Made with plant-based materials that are without preservatives, additives, artificial dyes, or flavorings, these whitening strips are one of the most eco-friendly options out there. It also aims to keep your teeth microbiome-safe with its non-toxic ingredients, making it ideal for sensitive teeth and gums. Bazaar's beauty director Jenna Rosenstein used these before her wedding day with great results.
GREAT FLAVORS
Zimba Teeth Whitening Strips
GREAT FLAVORS
Zimba Teeth Whitening Strips
Credit: ZimbaPros
- Comes in multiple enjoyable flavors
- No slippage
Cons
- Reviewers say that it can irritate sensitive gums
Zimba offers you multiple flavors (mint, peach, coconut, etc.) to enjoy while its strips work to whiten your teeth. The strips also grip onto enamel with almost zero slippage during the process. After two-weeks, you'll notice a dramatic difference.
GREAT FOR SENSITIVE TEETH
Burst Teeth Whitening Strips
GREAT FOR SENSITIVE TEETH
Burst Teeth Whitening Strips
Credit: BurstPros
- Gentle enough for even the most sensitive teeth and gums
- No-slip grip
Cons
- Reviewers say that results aren't as noticeable
Made with sensitive teeth and gums in mind, these whitening strips contain coconut oil to lift stains. It also boasts a no-slip grip where strips hug the teeth during treatment for comfortable wear.
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GREAT FIT
Rembrandt Rembrandt Deeply White + Peroxide 1 Week Teeth Whitening Kit
GREAT FIT
Rembrandt Rembrandt Deeply White + Peroxide 1 Week Teeth Whitening Kit
Credit: RembrandtPros
- Fast results
- Comfortable wear
These whitening strips guarantee a noticeable difference in just a week. It also comes with custom-fit strips for comfortable wear.
GREAT FLAVOR
iSmile Teeth Whitening Strips
GREAT FLAVOR
iSmile Teeth Whitening Strips
Credit: iSmilePros
- Effective
- Gentle enough for even the most sensitive teeth and gums
These strips mix hydrogen peroxide with coconut and mint oil to remove heavy stains. It's super gentle and you'll notice a huge difference in your teeth in just a week.
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UNDER $16
Persmax Teeth Whitening Strips Kit
UNDER $16
Persmax Teeth Whitening Strips Kit
Credit: PersmaxPros
- Wallet-friendly
- Effective
- Comfortable wear
Can a whitening treatment be that good at a low price point? With Persmax, absolutely. Easy to apply without any discomfort and noticeable brighter teeth after a few treatments, this can't be beat.
BEST KIT
Spotlight Oral Care Teeth Whitening Strips
BEST KIT
Spotlight Oral Care Teeth Whitening Strips
Credit: SpotlightPros
- Soothes gums with vitamin E
- sulfate- and paraben-free
Cons
- Reviewers say that it might take longer to see noticeable results compared to other options
This kit contains 28 strips plus a comforting gum oil pen, so even the most sensitive among us can enjoy whiter teeth.
Do dentists actually recommend using whitening strips?
Both Lowenberg and Wang agree that whitening strips are an effective option for improving the color of teeth. Wang credits this to the peroxide gel in the strips that penetrate the enamel to bleach the stains.
"They are a great option for at-home whitening on a budget," says Lowenberg. "Using both whitening strips and whitening toothpaste is a good one-two punch for a quick whitening fix. Whitening toothpaste alone is not strong enough to achieve a whiter smile; it must be used in conjunction with other at‐home whitening products or as a follow-up to an in‐office whitening treatment."
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How does one use teeth whitening strips?
Wang says that you'll want to follow the instructions provided by the specific product, but generally it's best to apply the strips directly on your teeth for a designated amount of time once a day.
Lowenberg recommends waiting at least six hours before brushing your teeth or using mouthwash before whitening; he explains that the fluoride in the toothpaste could prevent the bleach from absorbing. Then, he says to wipe your teeth with tissue right before placing the strips on so that they stick on better. Make sure the strips don't touch your gums (the peroxide can be irritating and he says you can cut the strips if they're too large). Carefully use something like the side of the toothpick to mold the strips in place and to push them into spaces between your teeth. Don't eat or drink while the strips are on and wait the appropriate time, as instructed by the specific product you're trying, before removing. If you feel any discomfort while wearing whitening strips, he says to take them off and gently brush your teeth to remove the remaining hydrogen peroxide.
What's the best way to whiten teeth?
The best way to whiten teeth is dependent on a person's dental health and personal preferences. Wang says that there are many options to choose from, such as professional dental treatments, over-the-counter whitening products like strips or gels. That combined with good oral hygiene of regular brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings is a solid game plan for keeping your teeth bright. But if you have any questions, he says to consult a dentist to determine what will work best with your specific needs.
Why trust Harper's Bazaar?
For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion and beauty resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in beauty by working with the world’s leading authorities in dermatology, plastic surgery, cosmetics, skincare, haircare, and fragrance. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of beauty editors and industry experts.
Audrey Noble is a freelance writer and reporter. She writes celebrity profiles and does deep-dive features about the ways race, gender, sexuality, and other forms of identity impact society via the beauty industry. Her previous work experience includes editorial positions at Vanity Fair, Refinery29, and Allure. Her writing can also be seen in Vogue, Harper’s BAZAAR, Bustle, HelloGiggles, and more. You can keep up with her on Twitter.
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