Best teeth whitening kits to visibly brighten your smile
From a Kendall Jenner-made formula to one that removes up to five years of coffee stains – these are the best whitening kits to enhance your smile.
These products are hand-picked by our team to help make shopping easier. We may receive payments from third parties for sharing this content and when you purchase through links in this article. Product prices and offer details are not assured, and should be confirmed independently with the retailer. Learn more
As technology and trends develop, what was once only offered in salons for those with a hefty disposable income is now available in our homes for a fraction of the cost.
There are plenty of teeth whitening kits on the market that allow you to get bright pearly whites within days without you even needing to get dressed.
BEST TEETH-WHITENING KITS
At-home kits come in a variety of methods. These include, but are not limited to, strips that you place directly onto your teeth, mouthguards that are filled with a gel, whitening pens and powders that you brush onto your teeth. Here we round up the best for you to try:
BEST LED TEETH-WHITENING KIT
Mr Bright Whitening Charcoal Kit With LED, Adore Beauty, $64.95
This vegan teeth whitening kit harnesses the power of activated charcoal combined with an LED light. The charcoal will help to remove stains from the surface of your teeth and toxins from your gums, while the blue LED light activates the whitening agents in the formula.
How to use: Attach the LED light to the front of the mouth tray and clip into position. Apply one quarter of the gel from a tube into the mouth tray - just enough to coat your teeth and not your gums. Place the tray into your mouth, switch the light on, and allow the unit to count down from 10 minutes (you can repeat this three to four times per sitting). Afterwards, rinse your mouth with lukewarm water and clean the mouth tray.
BEST OVERALL TEETH-WHITENING KIT
Opalescence GO 6% Hydrogen Peroxide Pre-Loaded Teeth Whitening Trays, Amazon Australia, $119.99
This is my absolute favourite at-home teeth whitening kit on the market. A dentist recommended it to me years ago and I haven’t looked back. I use it maybe once or twice a year now and love the results. The pack comes with 10 mouthguards for both top and bottom teeth.
The 6 per cent hydrogen peroxide formula is a gel which also contains fluoride, tooth desensitisers and soothers. This means it reduces sensitivity and works to strengthen enamel – as well as leaving teeth bright and white. It’s mint in flavour which I quite enjoyed but you can get a melon flavoured one too.
I do find that my teeth get a little sensitive over the treatment period – I can’t have anything too sweet but apart from that I find them to be really comfortable to wear.
The packaging suggests you can get results within five days and I can attest to that. My teeth are shades whiter after use but not too much that it looks unnatural. I often get complimented on my teeth.
Handy hint: Since when I smile you can only really see my top teeth, I use the bottom mouthguards on the top as well which extends the amount of treatments I have in a single pack.
Opalescence GO is made by the same manufacturers as Opalescence PF, Boost and Treswhite Supreme and they have been in the market for over 20 years which gave me a good feeling for quality assurance.
How to use: You refrigerate the trays between uses but get them to room temperature before popping one into your mouth. You leave the whitening formula on for 60-90 minutes and use them consecutively for 10 days. During treatment time you are to avoid food that could colour your teeth like coffee, tea and red wine.
BEST VEGAN TEETH-WHITENING KIT
Smilie Teeth Whitening Kit, Smilie, $119
Developed with dental-grade ingredients, this teeth whitening method uses a vegan whitening gel in a pen form along with LED technology to gradually whiten teeth safely without pain or sensitivity. Each kit comes complete with an LED light mouth tray, USB charging cable, three whitening pens and instructions. The best part? They offer a 30-day smile guarantee.
How to use: You apply the gel via the pen to each tooth, brushing evenly, before plugging in the whitening light into your phone’s charging port. Place the light into your mouth for 16 minutes, then rinse off. Use everyday for six days, and up to 14 days depending on how white you want your teeth to go.
ActiveWow 24K White Premium Teeth Whitening Kit, iHerb, $39.99
One of the top sellers for teeth whitening kits on iHerb, this ActiveWow set features light-activated technology delivered by a handy ergonomic tool you hold in your mouth for ten to twenty minutes per session. It’s also easy to apply the gel as the kit comes with teeth moulding trays. With thirty uses per box, the cost is super affordable and while the kit is maximum strength in formula, it is still low sensitivity from a dental grade perspective.
BEST TEETH WHITENING PEN
Mr. Bright Whitening Pen, Catch, $24.46
Extremely handy and easy to use, the Mr. Bright teeth whitening pen is designed to be used in 30 seconds and effective in ten minutes, making it a great option for busy people rushing out the door every morning. Using natural sodium bicarbonate as its whitening ingredient, and cranberry extract to help dissolve plaque, this is a mighty whitening tool in a handy, take-anywhere container.
How to use: Ensure teeth are clean and dry, then twist pen to dispense gel, brush a thin layer onto each tooth while avoiding your gum line, and wear for 10-30 minutes.
BEST NATURAL TEETH-WHITENING KIT
Love Beauty Foods Teeth Whitener, THE ICONIC, $19.95
For those wanting to take the organic route, this is a good option. Plastic and preservative-free, thee product uses natural ingredients such as activated coconut charcoal, which is an absorbent that pulls toxins from your mouth including stains on your teeth; calcium bentonite clay, which works to bind to and draw out toxins in your mouth; and lemon myrtle, which cleanses and protects the mouth.
One reviewer wrote: “Have always had discoloured teeth and none of the white strips etc worked anymore. This has worked amazingly. Unlike the other reviewers I would say it took a couple of months to see a change but it’s a big change and I’m absolutely thrilled.”
How to use: This isn’t a one-off solution, it’s more of a daily ritual. Two to three times a week, you add the Smile Dust by dipping the ends of your toothbrush bristles into the dust and gently brushing your teeth for five minutes, paying attention to yellowed areas.
BEST TEETH WHITENING TOOTHBRUSH
Philips Sonicare 9900 Prestige Electric Toothbrush, $499
If you’re looking to invest in overall dental health, an electric toothbrush could be the key to both whiter teeth and a better clean each morning and evening. This Philips Sonicare 9900 Prestige brush features sensor technology to alert you on a myriad of teeth brushing mistakes, such as pressing too hard or missing spots. On the whitening front, it promises to remove stains in less than two days, thanks to its triangular tips.
How to use: The brush connects to an app on your phone, helping you through the correct brushing method. Interchangeable brush heads also mean you can get different results.
BEST TEETH-WHITENING KIT FOR SENSITIVE TEETH
Philips Zoom 6% Day White Hydrogen Peroxide Teeth Whitening Gel Complete Kit, Amazon, $115
Philips Zoom is the number one requested teeth whitening brand, with studies showing it’s safe and effective. The whitening gel found in this kit is made with Philip’s ACP Sensitivity Relief formula, making it ideal for those who have sensitive teeth yet still want professional results.
The kit includes six 2.4 gram 6% Day Nite White dual barrel whitening gel syringes, enough for 18 upper and lower treatments; one mouth tray case; one spa zipper bag, ideal for overnight stays; a shade guide, and instructions.
How to use: Take the syringe and place one to two drops of gel in each tooth compartment in the tray. Place the tray with gel in your mouth. Wear for 30 to 90 minutes. You can achieve results of up to eight shades whiter in one to two weeks of consistent usage.
QUICKEST TEETH-WHITENING KIT
Plus White 5 Minute Premier Whitening System, iHerb, $16.97
Time poor? Then this is the solution for you. This peroxide-based whitening system works from the first application and only requires you to use it for five minutes. Coming in at just over $15, it’s also the most affordable solution on the list. Many reviewers are also amazed at how gentle the formula is on teeth and gums.
How to use: Place a small amount of Plus White Speed Whitening Gel into both sides of the mouth tray and carefully insert it into your mouth. Leave in for five minutes for regular whitening (for badly stained or yellow teeth, allow 15 to 20 minutes). Rinse mouth several times with cool water before swishing a capful – about a teaspoon – of Plus White StainGuard Rinse in mouth for 15 to 20 seconds and rinse out. Easy, hey?
According to instructions, best results will occur when you use Plus White Whitening Gel twice daily for two weeks. You can maintain this white shade by using once or twice a week. Do not use consecutively for more than 14 days.
BEST CELEBRITY-ENDORSED TEETH-WHITENING KIT
Moon Kendall Jenner Whitening Pen, Beauty Bay, $35.95
Moon is one of the hottest brands in the oral care space at the moment. Thanks to it’s vegan and cruelty-free formulas, it has all the cool kids flocking to it – including model Kendall Jenner who helped to co-create the brand’s best-selling Teeth Whitening Pen.
Famous moniker aside, the pen has been applauded for delivering whitening results while being easy and convenient without burning or irritating teeth.
Created with a blend of lavender oil, strawberry fruit extract and honeysuckle flower extract, the formula has a vanilla mint flavour and can be used for short and long-term teeth brightening.
How to use: Remove the cap and click the button on the end of the pen until the whitening gel dispenses. Smile and brush a thin layer onto teeth.
For best results, use it twice a day for two weeks, waiting 30 seconds before closing your mouth after applying, and 10 to 30 minutes before eating or drinking.
While using the treatment avoid coffee, tea, cigarettes, or other substances that may impact the whitening effect.
Moon also stocks an Activated Charcoal Fluoride Free Whitening Toothpaste and a Stain Removal Fluoride Free Whitening Toothpaste.
OTHER TEETH WHITENING PENS TO TRY:
Spotlight Oral Care Teeth White Pen, Beauty Bay, $26.95
Formulated with hydrogen peroxide to dissolve hard-to-remove stains, this easy-to-use whitening pen was conceived by dentists – so you know it can be trusted. Vegan and cruelty-free, its intuitive and slim design means you’re able to pop it in your bag and go. Plus, coming in at a mere $25, its excellent value for money.
Venus Visage Teeth Whitening Pen, Amazon Australia, $19.99
“Really amazed at how clever this whitening pen worked, no bad taste, easy to use, and definite results my teeth were whiter after first application, noticeably so,” one five-star review starts. “You won’t be disappointed if you purchase a great product also no sensitivity that can occur with some whiteners … winner.”
Formulated with Carbamide Peroxide to gently yet effectively combat the 16 most common causes of staining – including coffee, tea, wine and smoking – this highly-rated whitening pen promises whiter teeth after only 30 seconds of use a day.
YOU MIGHT ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
Whitening toothpastes, toothbrushes and mouthwashes are lower in effectiveness than other types of whiteners, however they are useful for surface stains and to help maintain those pearly whites once you’ve done an at-home kit.
BEST WHITENING TOOTHPASTE
Colgate Optic White High Impact White Teeth Whitening Toothpaste with Hydrogen Peroxide, Amazon Australia, $10
“Initially I received a tube of this to try out in exchange for an honest review. But once that tube was gone, I purchased this two pack. Because it’s PHENOMENAL!,” one enthused reviewer wrote. “I’m a habitual coffee drinker (three cups a day average), and this toothpaste has whitened my teeth better than any product I’ve used before. The taste is pleasant without being overbearing, and I haven’t experienced any tooth or gum sensitivity from using it.”
If those glowing words haven’t convinced you to swap out your toothpaste just yet, consider that this highly-rated toothpaste contains twice the whitening ingredient that most dentists use when you’re in their chair; and after six weeks, has been found to whiten teeth by four shades.
BEST WHITENING MOUTHWASH
Colgate Optic White Alcohol Free Whitening Mouthwash with Optic Brightener, Amazon Australia, $3.49
Promising whiter teeth after just one rinse, you really have nothing to lose by dropping three dollars on this mouthwash. Formulated with an optic brightener that is activated as you rinse your mouth, this mouthwash reflects light, making your teeth look instantly brighter. Find it hard to believe? This five-star review, titled “Genuine product”, finds it useful for maintaining their whitened teeth – “It’s good for whitening or rinse out after drinking red wine to prevent staining”.
HOW DO AT-HOME TEETH WHITENING KITS WORK?
When it comes to at-home teeth whitening, the most common whitening agent is hydrogen peroxide – which is found in the majority of kits (think brands like Opalescence, Philips Zoom and Crest).
It works by penetrating the enamel to cause a colour change by removing both extrinsic and intrinsic stains. It is safe and one of the common ingredients used by dentists themselves. Note: according to Australian Dental Industry Association fact sheets, non-registered dental professionals are not allowed to administer any peroxide based whitening product greater than six per cent hydrogen peroxide.
Brands like Mr Bright and Moon harness natural products such as activated charcoal, baking soda and peppermint oil. These ingredients work to bind and draw out toxins, helping breakdown stains. These are great alternatives for those who prefer a natural approach or have more sensitive teeth.
ARE AT-HOME WHITENING KITS EFFECTIVE?
With at-home whitening kits you can start to see results within a couple of days, but it’s good to remember it’s all about consistency and following the instructions to truly see improvements.
Dentists also advise that good dental hygiene is important to the maintenance of keeping teeth healthy and white. The Australian Dental Association fact sheets recommends brushing teeth for two to three minutes at least two times a day with a toothpaste that contains fluoride. Flossing is also an essential part of your oral health care routine. Regular check ups and cleans with your dentists can also help remove external stains. Drink lots of water and follow a healthy diet can also help keep teeth white. Always seek professional advice if you experience any issues.
WHY DO TEETH GO YELLOW?
The Australian Dental Association fact sheets explain that “teeth naturally begin to turn yellower and darker as we get older. The things we do in our everyday lives, like consuming certain foods and beverages contribute to the discolouration of our teeth. Tea, coffee, and red wine are often blamed as the main culprits, but in reality even a healthy diet will result in some staining”.
WHAT OTHER WHITENING OPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE?
Along with at-home whitening kits which we discussed in depth above, you can also seek professional whitening from your dentist. “Dentists are allowed to use a higher concentration of bleach than you are at home, and often offer ‘in-chair’ whitening at the dental practice,” explains the Australian Dental Association. “This involves painting your teeth with stronger bleach and activating it using an ultraviolet light or a laser, often with immediate results.”
For more teeth advice, check out a dentist’s top picks of electric toothbrushes.
Plus, if you’re after more shopping content, check out our Best Of section.
To save on your favourite beauty brands like Estee Lauder, Adore Beauty and Sephora, head to our Coupons page.
‘Crazy’ idea behind Aussie teacher’s booming brand
How an Aussie schoolteacher with no business experience created a “genius” yet affordable lash growth serum with hundreds of rave reviews.
Cult $6 chemist buy everyone is raving about
The “game changing” lip treatment sells every 12 seconds and we can bet the price tag is sure to humble you.
’Foolproof’ foundation for ‘flawless’ skin
We put our faces on the line to test every single Fenty Beauty foundation – here’s which one we can’t stop reaching for.
‘Saved my hair’: $20 dupe for cult item
Rivalling a $100 hair mask, this budget-friendly dupe came to the rescue after a dreadful hair mistake and is a must-have.