The 4 Best Teeth Whiteners I’ve Actually Tried and Loved

Supersmile Professional Whitening Toothpaste, $21

SHOP IT

Look, I know a toothpaste is a toothpaste is a toothpaste, but trust me, this one really, truly works in just a few days of twice-daily (i.e. usual) brushing, thanks to its hefty dose of stain-dissolving calcium peroxide. Simply apply a pea-size dollop to your dry—yes, dry—toothbrush, and let the tangy-sweet paste work its magic.

Luster 2 Minute White, $13

SHOP IT

The claim on the box: “[whitens] six shades in only three days.” The claim made by this beauty editor: not really, but close. This two-step system includes a pre-treat mouth rinse and a clear whitening gel that you paint over your teeth after you finish brushing with your usual toothpaste. The result: crazy-bright teeth in under a week, with zero sensitivity.

Crest 3D White Whitening Treatment Kit, $60

SHOP IT

You’ve probably already tried the OG Crest Whitestrips, and you probably already know that, yes, they do work, but ugh—how does anyone remember to do them every single damn day? Cue: the next best thing…times a thousand. Because these white strips (which have been redesigned to really adhere to your teeth without any slipping) also come with a handheld blue light that helps the gel penetrate your enamel, making the whitening powers way more effective (fact: I noticed significantly brighter teeth after one session).

Just apply the white strips for 60 mins—I know; there’s the annoying part—and then hold the light up to your teeth for a few minutes until it beeps. Peel the strips off, rinse your mouth out, and boom—you’re good.

AuraGlow Deluxe Home Teeth Whitening System, $49

SHOP IT

Ok, so by “high” level of effort, I really just mean “more annoying than the other methods.” But this little kit is pretty much the best at-home whitener I’ve ever tested, so you weigh the pros with the cons. Just squirt the pre-loaded syringe of gel into the silicone mouth guard, insert it the guard (that has a light attached to it) into your mouth for 30 mins, and you’re done! Hella, bright, hella fast. The only downside is the fact that you’re biting down on oozy mouth guard for 30 straight minutes. But still, if you can handle the annoyance and discomfort, this kit will take you to tooth heaven.