Teeth Whitening: What Actually Works?

Walk down any pharmacy aisle and you'll find dozens of products promising a Hollywood smile. Some work modestly, some barely at all. Here's the honest breakdown.

Over-the-counter options

Whitening toothpastes remove surface stains but can't change the underlying shade of your teeth. Whitening strips do work — gradually — but uneven application can leave streaks, and sensitivity is common.

Professional whitening

In-office whitening uses higher-concentration gel applied with protected gums, lifting teeth several shades in a single visit. Custom take-home trays offer similar results over two weeks with less sensitivity. We'll help you choose based on your timeline and enamel.