Best Teeth Whitening Kits in 2024 [CNET]

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Caroline Igo Editor, Sleep

Caroline Igo (she/her/hers) is a wellness editor and holds Sleep Science Coach and Stress Management certificates from the Spencer Institute. She received her bachelor’s degree in creative writing from Miami University and continues to further her craft in her free time. Before joining CNET, Caroline wrote for past CNN anchor, Daryn Kagan.

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• Carl R. Greer/Andrew D. Hepburn Award for Best Nonfiction Essay (Miami University, 2020)

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I tested several kits to bring you this list of the best teeth whitening kit options for 2024. Though I couldn’t accurately judge these products on whitening power (I wish I could, but my teeth won’t allow it), I did judge them against criteria like mouthpiece fit, type of whitening gel, kit contents, treatment length and refill options.

While this product below wasn’t a favorite, it has some qualities worth mentioning. It may be a whitening kit for you.

• Shyn Brighter LED Whitening System: Previously, Shyn had an LED whitening kit that used Rembrandt whitening strips, which I loved. It was on my original list of the best overall teeth-whitening products. I liked the old kit because whitening strips are much less messy than whitening gel and, to my knowledge, that was the only whitening kit out there that used strips instead of gel. Unfortunately, that product was discontinued, but Shyn now has a whitening kit that uses a carbamide peroxide whitening gel. The Shyn Brighter LED whitening kit is similar to other whitening kits on the market, especially the Colgate SuperNova. It comes with a silicone tray, an LED light device, and whitening pens to fill the mouth tray with gel. This kit comes with three whitening pens, which is a nice touch because you won’t have to order refills as soon as you would with other kits. When the time comes, you can buy a single maximum-strength refill teeth whitening pen or a pack of three. You can use the pens without the LED tray, too, if you don’t want to walk around with a mouthpiece in. The Shyn Brighter kit also comes with a travel case. The case makes for neat storage at home in addition to traveling.

There are many teeth whitening kits on the market, so it might be difficult to choose the best one for you. Here’s what to consider before buying your next whitening kit.

• Key ingredients: The most effective whitening products will contain peroxide. The most common are hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide. While some products may contain only hydrogen peroxide and others carbamide peroxide, they have similar effects. Studies have shown that both peroxides have the same whitening effect on teeth.
• Whitening levels: If you are looking for a whitening kit to reverse years of stains, you will need one with high levels of whitening power. These may be a bit more expensive and may require longer wear or treatment. You can be less picky with whitening kits for simple upkeep or the occasional use.
• Types: There are four types of whitening kits out there — gel, LED, pens and toothpastes. Depending on the kit, you may have a few options instead of one. If you don’t know which type will work best, look for a kit that contains almost four types to try.
• Sensitivity: If you have especially sensitive teeth, it is important to look for products that cater to your needs. Whitening your teeth can be a bit uncomfortable, but if the pain is excruciating, stop using the product immediately.
• Cost: Teeth whitening kits can cost you anywhere from $50 to $500. However, professional whitening treatment can run as much as $1,800. At-home kits are the most cost effective.