AN ASPIRATION that we just can’t seem to shake in the UK is the desire for whiter teeth.
Whether we’re inspired by the pearly whites seen on the telly, or we simply want to prove the bad-teeth British stereotype wrong, professional teeth whitening is one of the nation’s fastest-growing cosmetic procedures.
While it can certainly sound tempting, clinic visits can cost thousands and the whitening ingredient, hydrogen peroxide, can lead to sensitivity.
But here’s the good news — teeth whitening needn’t be expensive or invasive.
There are many brilliant, affordable teeth-whitening kits out there from popular brands like Hismile, MySweetSmile and Spotlight Oral Care.
So, here they are, alongside my honest thoughts…
Pros: Easy to slot into your existing routine, as it requires no extra steps, saving you time and effort.
Cons: Powerful, minty flavour that can feel overly strong and unpleasant at first.
Rating: 5/5
Spotlight Oral Care is the brainchild of two sister dentists and provides professional-grade teeth whitening products at a fraction of the usual cost.
“But what on earth is an accelerator gel?” I hear you ask.
Despite its mystifying name, this product is a breeze to use.
Think of it as an add-on that can be used alongside whitening toothpaste.
Accelerator gel has a similar appearance and consistency to toothpaste and can applied in the same way.
Add a pump of the accelerator gel on top of your normal toothpaste and get brushing.
The Accelerator gel is formulated with PAP and hydrogen peroxide — both used in professional whitening — for lifting away stains and achieving a brighter smile.
Unlike other whitening options, the accelerator gel isn’t messy and doesn’t require much thought or effort whilst applying.
However, it does have a powerful, minty taste which I found rather unpleasant at first.
Shoppers love how straightforward it is with one saying: “Adding a small drop into toothpaste has made a marked difference in seven days.”
Another added: “[I’ve] just started using this and my teeth feel like I’ve had a polish at the dentist — sparkling.”
While I didn’t see results straight away, I eventually experienced small, incremental improvements in the brightness of my teeth with continued use.
Pros: Instantly brightens teeth but also tackles tougher stains with continued use.
Cons: Heavy, unpleasant formula feels sticky on the teeth, making application an unenjoyable experience.
Rating: 4/5
This is the first whitening pen I’ve used that’s provided instant results.
Formulated with PAP, a gentler alternative to hydrogen peroxide, the Precision Teeth Whitening Pen can be used up to three times a week.
Rather than focusing on individual stains, I painted the white gel formula across my front teeth.
Once applied, the formula feels sticky and heavy, making leaving it in place for the advised ten minutes rather unpleasant.
However, once rinsed away, I was surprised by how much brighter and whiter my teeth looked.
Shoppers have experienced great results too, with one saying: “Easy to use and absolutely no sensitivity. Recommend to people who have experienced sensitivity with other whitening products.”
Another added: “This product is extremely easy to use. It has made a significant difference in the whiteness of my teeth.”
Pros: Lifts away stains with continued use, and the precision applicator enables you to tackle hard-to-reach stains.
Cons: Doesn’t deliver instant results, with stains taking up to two weeks to totally fade.
Rating: 4/5
With a few clicks, the Spotlight Oral Care Teeth Whitening Pen dispenses a clear whitening gel, which can be painted onto stains and areas of discolouration.
I found this was very easy to use, as it enabled me to reach all the nooks and crannies in my mouth.
The gel also has a pleasant spearmint taste and doesn’t feel heavy or sticky on your teeth.
I’ve tried a few whitening pens in the past, and many leave behind a rough or uncomfortable film on my teeth, but this wasn’t the case with Spotlight’s version.
Whilst I didn’t see results instantly, I noticed that some smaller stains around the gaps in my teeth began to fade with continued use.
Shoppers have experienced great results, but don’t expect to see any difference overnight.
One reviewer said: “I had fairly badly stained teeth from smoking and this product is fantastic. It did take around a month for the results to show a major difference so be patient.”
Another shopper adds: “Quick and easy to use through the day if needed.”
To summarise, I’d recommend Spotlight Oral Care Teeth Whitening Pen to anyone who wants to tackle staining but doesn’t fancy shelling out hundreds on professional whitening.
Pros: This is arguably the best-tasting formula on the list, and has a gentle formula which is pleasant to use.
Cons: Expect to wait a couple of weeks before you notice whitening results.
Rating: 4/5
At first, I wasn’t convinced by Gem Oral Care.
Its aesthetic packaging led me to believe that it might be all flash and no substance.
However, I’ve been pleasantly impressed by the brand’s gentle whitening formulas, which are enjoyable to use — not something I thought I’d ever say about toothpaste.
I’ve used whitening toothpastes for years, and have experienced a huge variety in results.
Some whitening toothpastes (even the pricey ones) have done very little for my teeth, whereas other budget options have provided visible results with just a few brushes.
It took me a little while to see any results from the Gem toothpaste, but my teeth did start to look brighter after a couple of weeks.
However, some shoppers have seen immediate results with one saying: “Fabulous Toothpaste, saw initial results, but now two weeks in I’m starting to see great colour changes, [my] teeth are definitely whiter and they’re starting to sparkle.”
Another adds: “I have noticed a huge difference in my teeth and will be sticking with Gem.”
With flavours spanning from coconut mint to watermelon, the brand makes brushing enjoyable; no mean feat for a product that provides decent whitening results.
Pros: Only requires biweekly application, and is safe for those with sensitive or compromised teeth.
Cons: Very messy and tricky to apply, meaning you’ll have to invest time in applying it.
Rating: 4/5
This dentist-approved whitening powder is the perfect add-on to your existing whitening routine.
I tested MySweetSmile Dentist-Approved Teeth Whitening Powder alongside my typical toothpaste and it boosted the radiance of my smile.
Shoppers have noticed similar results, with one saying: “Only used twice.
“Already noticed a massive difference. Very pleased so far.”
Another added: “I was so pleased with the results of using this product that I am now on my second order, partly because my daughter was so impressed that she took my first one!”
While it’s very messy — I spilt it all over my bathroom floor when I first opened it — it’s fairly straightforward to use.
You simply wet your toothbrush, dunk it in the jar and brush your teeth.
The powder lathers into a fine foam and can be used up to twice a week.
It’s safe for those with sensitive teeth or those worried about enamel health, thanks to being hydrogen peroxide-free.
Instead, the formula is powered with PAP, which lifts away stains and brightens teeth.
Pros: Pleasant, lightweight formula that is formulated with PAP, a gentler alternative to hydrogen peroxide, which instantly brightens teeth
Cons: While it tackles stains with continued use, results aren’t as dramatic as some of the other whitening pens on this list.
Rating: 4/5
I like to think of this product as a mixture of the Spotlight Oral Care Teeth Whitening Pen and HiSmile Glostik Tooth Gloss, as it provides both instant and longer-term results.
Gem Teeth Whitening Pen PAP is formulated with PAP, meaning it achieves gentle yet effective whitening results over time.
Compared to other whitening pens I’ve used, the formula has a pleasant taste and doesn’t feel irritating or tingling in the teeth.
However, whilst it gradually whitens teeth over time, it also acts like a tooth gloss.
When applied to your teeth, the formula has a slightly shimmering, pearly appearance, meaning it instantly lifts and brightens your teeth — it’s a trick of the light!
Shoppers love how simple it is, with one saying: “[I’m] thrilled with the results from this product. It’s easy to use, mess-free application and noticeable results within a few uses.”
Another adds: “It’s easy to use and gives a lovely subtle glow, reducing the look of coffee stains etc. Thinking of trying out more products by this brand too now!”
The formula is biodegradable and is one of the most affordable whitening pens on the market.
Pros: Gradually reduces sensitivity, but also immediately leaves your teeth feeling extra clean.
Cons: Adds an extra step to your routine, and requires more brushing which can be problematic for those with sensitive gums.
Rating: 3.5/5
One in three people experience tooth sensitivity, which can be caused by tooth decay or excessive brushing, leading to weakened enamel.
The good news, though, is that there are ways to repair your existing tooth enamel and reduce sensitivity.
MySweetSmile nHA+ Enamel Care Serum is a gentle formula that’s clinically proven to repair enamel over time.
The serum is formulated with hydroxyapatite which remineralises enamel, for healthier, stronger and desensitised teeth.
You can use the serum daily after brushing your teeth; simply add a couple of pumps to your toothbrush and brush for two minutes.
I was surprised by how gentle and pleasant-tasting the serum is, as I was expecting it to be much harsher and heavier.
I used the serum after using my typical toothpaste and was surprised by how clean my teeth felt afterwards.
However, this adds a couple of extra minutes to your brushing routine, making it feel even more tedious. This could also prove painful to people with sensitive gums.
But shoppers love the serum, with one saying: “Finally, a product for sensitive teeth that actually does what it says on the tin.”
They added: “I can promise you after the first use my teeth felt stronger and slightly less sensitive.”
Another shopper said: “After a week I was getting sceptical as there was no reduction in sensitivity, but I must say after the third week I well and truly began to notice the difference.
They continued: “No more sensitive teeth, no more pain when drinking hot coffee or cold beer, all gone.”
Pros: Immediately brightens your smile, meaning teeth look instantly whiter and cleaner.
Cons: Very messy and difficult to apply, and results only last a couple of hours.
Rating: 3/5
This product broke the internet.
Last year, you literally couldn’t scroll through social media without seeing people brushing their teeth with purple goo.
Not only is Hismile said to be Kim Kardashian’s favourite toothpaste brand, but the brand sold one V34 Colour Corrector Serum every minute at Boots in 2023.
Social media will lead you to believe that this serum helps achieve much brighter, whiter teeth in seconds, but this doesn’t ring true in my experience.
Instead, it subtly brightens teeth, for a whiter smile — but the results won’t last long.
HiSmile V34 Colour Corrector Serum is a bright purple serum which uses colour-correcting technology.
Purple and yellow are on opposite sides of the colour wheel, meaning HiSmile’s purple formula helps cancel out yellow staining on teeth.
After coating your teeth in the formula, and spitting away the excess product, they’ll be left with a slightly brighter, whiter appearance.
Shoppers have noticed its instant results, with one saying: “I noticed my teeth didn’t look as yellow (I am an ex-smoker and do have a tinge of yellow), and I feel like it had brightened up and neutralised my tone.”
Another added: “I used it twice before a special occasion. My teeth definitely look brighter, whiter and clean after using!”
The results certainly aren’t permanent, but this serum will give your teeth a bit of a white boost before you head out the door.
Pros: Application is easy and mess-free, and the formula has a gentle, pleasant taste.
Cons: The formula can leave teeth looking glittery or shimmering, and the results only last up to an hour.
Rating: 3/5
Think of this as make-up for your teeth.
While the HiSmile Glostik Tooth Gloss doesn’t have any long-term benefits, and won’t fade any staining or discoloration, it does help achieve a brighter smile instantly.
It’s easy to mistake this product for a lip gloss, as it effectively works in the same way.
HiSmile Glostik Tooth Gloss provides the illusion of whiter teeth, as the high-shine gloss captures and reflects light for a brighter smile.
The formula has a pleasant taste and isn’t heavy or sticky, meaning I forgot I was wearing it once applied.
Just don’t get overzealous with application as applying too much will leave your teeth shimmering and opalescent.
The formula requires topping up throughout the day, as the formula only stayed on my teeth for an hour or so.
Shoppers love how unique it is, with one saying: “I bought this out of sheer curiosity, and I am still not sure what to think about it!”
Adding: “Essentially, you dry your teeth off, and then apply it to make your teeth seem whiter.”
Just like your favourite lip gloss, it’s small, compact, and easy to throw into your handbag for top-ups on the go.
Pros: Leaves teeth noticeably brighter and whiter after one use, which gradually improves over time.
Cons: Has a strong and unpleasant taste as well as a bright blue formula, which can leave your sink in a mess.
Rating: 3/5
I was initially very sceptical of this £24 Colgate toothpaste.
It’s almost £10 more expensive than most of Colgate’s other whitening toothpaste, and I couldn’t help but wonder what makes this one so special.
The answer lies in the ingredients; it’s formulated with hydrogen peroxide and optic brighteners for achieving a dazzling smile.
It’s proven to instantly whiten teeth and reverse up to 15 years of stains, with four weeks of continued use, Colgate says.
So, with all of these bold claims, I had to give it a go.
First of all, this toothpaste has a heavy, pungent fragrance and taste.
Add this to its bright, blue formula and you’ve got yourself a very unusual (and fairly unpleasant) brushing experience.
However, I’m glad I stuck by it, as I did experience some good results.
After a couple of uses, my teeth looked subtly brighter, and with continued use, I noticed incremental changes in the brightness of my teeth.
Shoppers agree, with one saying: “[I’ve] only been using it for two weeks and already notice a huge difference. [My] teeth look significantly whiter. The most amazing thing for me is my teeth actually feel clean.”
Another wrote: “[I’ve] had lots of compliments on how white my teeth are.”
“Whitening your teeth at home is a safe option when using professionally provided dental trays and gels,” he said.
“Steer clear of DIY whitening hacks like baking soda, which can damage your enamel over time.
“For safe and effective whitening, stick to professionally recommended options that are gentle on your teeth.
“While a common social media trend, charcoal toothpaste can actually erode your enamel, leading to more harm than good.
“The key to a healthy, white smile is protecting your enamel, not wearing it away.”
You can read more of Dr Ferakh Hamid’s recommendations here.
When it comes to teeth whitening, there are a variety of options that span all types of price points.
Many people opt for professional teeth whitening, which is the most effective option, but this can be invasive and very expensive — often setting you back thousands.
Fortunately, milder results can be achieved from the comfort of your own home.
Many people opt for whitening pens as they offer precise application and can be taken on the go.
Accelerator gels are also a great add-on to your existing brushing routine and can provide whiter smiles in just a few uses.
Products formulated with active, dentist-approved ingredients are always your best bet.
Hydrogen peroxide has been used in teeth whitening for years but it can heighten tooth sensitivity, especially if used improperly or too frequently.
PAP is a great alternative as it is gentler on the teeth and gums, but is still effective at fading stains and brightening teeth.
Hydrogen peroxide is the most effective teeth whitening agent, which will provide the quickest and most effective results.
However, if used incorrectly or too frequently, it can lead to damage and sensitivity.
Fortunately, many at-home whitening kits now include safe amounts of hydrogen peroxide, and others are formulated with alternative ingredients that can provide similar results.
PAP is a great alternative, as it’s less invasive on the surface of the teeth but can still help combat stains.
There are plenty of products out there that tackle discolouration and yellowing teeth.
Many products can be used alongside a whitening toothpaste, and are easy to fit into your routine.
The Spotlight Teeth Whitening Accelerator Gel tackles yellowness and staining, meaning it’s great if you’re a smoker, coffee or wine drinker.
If you have specific areas of yellowing that you’d like to target, whitening pens can be a great option, as they offer unparalleled precision.
Many Brits are now choosing to get their teeth whitened professionally, but it can be very expensive.
What’s more, aftercare can be limiting and difficult to fit around your existing lifestyle.
Fortunately, many inexpensive at-home whitening kits are both effective and safe to use, thanks to being formulated with dentist-approved ingredients.
From gels to pens and glosses, there are plenty of options, and most won’t cost you more than £30.
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