If you’re dreaming of a brighter smile in time for the holiday season, you’re not alone. With so many teeth-whitening options available, choosing the right one takes a bit of research. Ahead, we’re breaking down your options with expert insight from cosmetic dentists to help you achieve the dazzling white smile you’ve been dreaming of before the new year.
Featured Experts
- Victoria Veytsman, DDS is a cosmetic dentist based in Beverly Hills, CA
- Husam Almunajed, DDS is a cosmetic dentist based in New York
- Katherine Ahn Wallace, DDS is a cosmetic dentist based in Beverly Hills, CA
- Kourosh Maddahi, DDS is a cosmetic dentist based in Beverly Hills, CA
Try Whitening Strips
If you’re down to the last minute, a simple whitening strip can go a long way toward a whiter smile. “For patients with healthy teeth and gums, whitening strips are convenient and cost-effective for brightening the teeth, whether they’re from a store or dispensed by a dentist,” says Beverly Hills, CA cosmetic dentist Katherine Ahn Wallace, DDS.
“Crest 3D White Whitestrips ($45) are a great option and I like them because they stay on your teeth,” says Beverly Hills, CA cosmetic dentist Victoria Veytsman, DDS. “You can get the molds with gel, but it’s really all about the hydrogen peroxide gel—both the strips and molds are a vehicle to hold the peroxide.”
That said, you may not find that whitening strips get the job done. “Whitening strips have certain limitations that make them less effective than professional-grade whitening treatments or custom trays,” explains New York cosmetic dentist Husam Almunajed, DDS. “The results may be less than ideal as the whitening will only take place where the strips contact the teeth. This means the sides, in-between and areas near the gumline often go untreated, leading to uneven whitening results. In addition, the whitening strips are not customized to fit individual teeth or mouth shapes, which may result in uneven whitening.”
Consider a Whitening System
If you have a little more time, another option is incorporating a whitening dental-care system into your routine for a brightening boost. Beverly Hills Cosmetic dentist Kourosh Maddahi, DDS, says his go-to at-home whitening system is the Luminuex Whitening Kit ($25). “I like all the products in here because they’re certified non-toxic, peroxide-free, enamel-safe and protect the oral microbiome.”
You can also consider a more robust at-home whitening option. “Pre-filled whitening trays, such as Opalescence Go, are a great option,” Dr. Almunajed says. “They are quick to use: simply place the tray over your teeth and wear it for the recommended time, no preparation required. They do use professional-grade whitening which delivers faster and more effective results compared to the other over-the-counter products like strips or pens. Custom options only improve those results.”
For Dr. Almunajed, these custom whitening trays are an excellent overnight whitening option. “The best way to whiten your teeth is whitening teeth overnight is custom whitening trays or custom clear retainers like Vivera, combined with a professional-grade whitening solution,” he says. “This is widely considered the most effective and efficient way to whiten teeth.”
Book a Professional Teeth-Whitening Treatment
These at-home options are great if you’re in a time crunch to whiten your teeth before the holidays. But if you do manage to squeeze in a quick dentist appointment before the family festivities, it might make a huge difference.
“Professional in-office teeth whitening is highly effective as it uses advanced techniques and stronger whitening agents than at-home methods,” says Dr. Almunajed. “Professional in-office teeth whitening is a controlled, efficient and safe procedure that delivers superior results to at-home methods. The combination of professional-grade products, personalized care and advanced technology ensures a brighter, more confident smile in as little as one visit.”
A professional whitening includes gum protection, a more powerful whitening solution than at-home options, and post-whitening care to help reduce your sensitivity. The only challenge? Booking an appointment close to the holidays. Consider this your sign to schedule one now.
