Which Teeth Whitening System is Best for You?

By Dr. Flora Stay

A bright, white smile does more than light up your face, it boosts confidence and adds a sparkle to your personality. It’s no wonder teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments in the world!

But with countless whitening solutions available — including teeth whitening strips, professional treatments, and the best teeth whitening toothpaste — how do you choose what works best for you?

Let’s break down the pros, cons, costs, and effectiveness of each whitening system so you can make the best decision for your smile and your lifestyle.

Why do teeth get stained?

Understanding why your teeth change color is key to choosing the right teeth whitening system. Some common causes include:

• Food and Drinks: Coffee, red wine, soda, and berries can stain enamel.
• Tobacco Use: Nicotine and tar from cigarettes or chewing tobacco darken teeth.
• Aging: Enamel naturally thins, revealing yellow dentin underneath.
• Medications: Tetracycline, antihistamines, or blood pressure meds can discolor teeth.
• Poor Oral Hygiene: Infrequent brushing and flossing lead to plaque and stains.

Top 5 Best Teeth Whitening Products and Systems

Here’s a breakdown of the best teeth whitening options, from professional treatments to everyday toothpaste.

1. Professional In-Office Whitening

What it is: Your dentist applies a high-concentration bleaching gel, sometimes activated by a light or laser.

Pros:

• Instant results in one session
• Supervised and safe
• Custom tailored to your dental history

Cons:

• Pricey ($300 to $1,000+)
• May cause temporary tooth sensitivity (1)
• Not effective on crowns or fillings

Best for: Quick results before a wedding, event, or photoshoot.

How long does teeth whitening last?

Results vary by method and maintenance. In-office results may last 1–3 years. Strips and toothpaste need continuous use.

2. Dentist-Prescribed At-Home Whitening Kits

What it is: Custom-fitted trays filled with bleaching gel for home use.

Pros:

• Dentist-recommended strength
• Better coverage than strips
• Gradual, even whitening

Cons:

• Slower (takes 1–2 weeks)
• Requires daily use and commitment

Best for: People wanting professional results at a lower price.

3. Over-the-Counter Whitening Strips and Gels

What it is: Affordable whitening strips or brush-on peroxide gels available at most drugstores. (2)

Pros:

• Budget-friendly
• Easy to use at home
• Visible results within a few days

Cons:

• Might not reach between teeth
• Can irritate gums or cause sensitivity

Best for: Mild to moderate stains and first-time whiteners.

Should I brush my teeth before using whitening strips?

Yes. Brushing helps remove plaque, which can block whitening agents from reaching your enamel. Wait 30 minutes after brushing before applying strips.

4. Best Teeth Whitening Toothpaste

What it is: Daily toothpaste infused with gentle abrasives and/or low doses of hydrogen peroxide.

Pros:

• Maintains whitening results
• Affordable and easy to integrate into your routine
• Perfect for sensitive teeth when SLS-free

Cons:

• Won’t whiten below enamel surface
• Takes weeks to show visible change

Best for: Maintaining results or subtle brightening for sensitive teeth.

Learn more about fluoride-free toothpaste, and if it is right for you. 

5. Natural Whitening Remedies (Use with Caution)

Examples: Baking soda, coconut oil pulling, activated charcoal

Pros:

• Inexpensive
• Easily accessible

Cons:

• Not dentist-approved
• Abrasive ingredients can wear enamel
• Lack of scientific evidence

Best for: Those seeking eco-conscious alternatives with minor whitening expectations.

How to Choose the Best Teeth Whitening for You

Here’s what to consider when selecting the best teeth whitening products:

Factor	Option to Consider
Budget	Whitening strips, toothpaste
Sensitivity	SLS-free toothpaste like Cleure
Speed of Results	In-office treatments
Ease of Use	Over-the-counter strips
Long-Term Goals	Dentist-prescribed trays

 

How much does teeth whitening cost?

Costs vary. In-office whitening ranges from $300 to $1,000. At-home kits cost $100 to $400. Strips and toothpaste range from $5 to $50.

Is teeth whitening safe?

Yes, when used as directed. Overuse or improper application can lead to gum irritation or enamel wear.

Why are my teeth sensitive after whitening strips?

Strips use peroxide, which can temporarily expose dentin. Use a sensitivity toothpaste and limit acidic foods after whitening.

Tips to Maintain a Whiter Smile Longer

• Brush and floss daily
• Avoid staining drinks like soda and red wine
• Use a straw when drinking dark beverages
• Rinse your mouth after meals
• Visit your dentist regularly

How Cleure’s Whitening Toothpaste Helps Keep Your Smile Bright

When you’ve invested in whitening, maintenance matters. Cleure Toothpaste is uniquely formulated for long-lasting brightness without harsh chemicals or irritants.

• Formulated without harsh abrasives that can damage enamel.
• Free of sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), a common irritant that can cause mouth sensitivity.
• Gentle yet powerful at removing surface stains from coffee, tea, wine, and everyday foods.
• Contains the optimal amount of baking soda, a natural, mild abrasive that safely lifts surface stains without scratching the enamel. Baking soda’s gentle polishing action helps brighten teeth over time while maintaining the integrity of your enamel.
• Perfect for sensitive teeth and gums, making it a great daily option for keeping your smile fresh and white.

Read more about teeth whitening in our blog, 6 Secrets for Whiter Teeth.

Your Bright Smile, Your Choice

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to teeth whitening. The best system for you depends on your goals, sensitivity, time commitment, and budget. Whether you choose professional treatment, whitening strips, or the best teeth whitening toothpaste, maintaining those results is just as crucial.

With Cleure’s gentle, effective toothpaste, you can enjoy a radiant, healthy smile every day — without irritation or harsh chemicals.

References:

1. Mayo Clinic Q and A: Many safe choices available to help whiten teeth, July 2015.

2. Tooth Whitening/Bleaching: Treatment Considerations for Dentists and Their Patients, September 2009.