All products featured on Glamour are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.
Scoring a brighter smile doesn’t have to come with a side of cringe-inducing pain. The best teeth-whitening products for sensitive teeth use a lower concentration of hydrogen peroxide to deliver at-home results without the zings.
There are a few different whitening options available over the counter, including strips, gels with LED trays, mouthwashes, and toothpastes too. “The whitening kits with hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide will provide the best [teeth-whitening] results, thanks to the oxidation process that peroxides provide—it breaks apart the color molecules by penetrating the enamel structure,” explains Anjali Rajpal, DDS, a cosmetic dentist and CEO of Beverly Hills Dental Arts. “The other whitening products that don’t contain peroxide mostly work on the surface structure to remove superficial stains.”
From peroxide-free strips to LED-powered kits with lower-intensity formulas, we vetted the best over-the-counter whitening options to brighten your smile (without sacrificing comfort), according to professionals who treat sensitivity daily. See below for our top picks for whiter teeth.
The best teeth-whitening products for sensitive teeth, at a glance
- Best Overall: Crest 3D Whitestrips Sensitive
- Best Whitening Toothpaste: Sensodyne Pronamel Active Shield Whitening Toothpaste
- Best Natural Whitening Strips: Lumineux Whitening Strips
- Best Whitening Mouthwash for Sensitive Gums: TheraBreath Whitening Mouthwash
- Best High-Tech Whitening Kit: Snow Wireless Teeth Whitening Kit
- Best Pre-Filled Whitening Trays: Opalescence Go 15% Whitening Kit
- Best Natural Oil Pulling for Whitening: Gurunanda Cocomint Oil Pulling Mouthwash
- Best Drugstore LED Whitening Kit: Colgate Optic White ComfortFit LED Whitening Kit
Best Whitening Strips for Beginners: Crest 3D Whitestrips Sensitive
.png)
Never tried whitening strips before? Consider trying out the Crest 3D White Strips Sensitive. Both Dr. Rajpal and Kevin B. Sands, DDS, a cosmetic dentist and founder of Cosmetic Dentistry Beverly Hills, recommend these strips for their low hydrogen peroxide concentration. “Because these whitening strips have a lower concentration of bleaching agents compared to most whitening strips, they serve as a great option for those who tend to have sensitive teeth,” says Dr. Sands. “Despite having a lower concentration of hydrogen peroxide, which works as the active ingredient in whitening strips, these strips still deliver exceptional whitening results while simultaneously ensuring that your teeth won’t be bothered.”
“I’ve been a fan of Crest 3D Whitestrips for a while, but I recently noticed my teeth getting a little more sensitive to them. That’s when I tried the sensitive teeth version, and I immediately loved how gentle they felt. They don’t cause discomfort during or post application, and also don’t leave behind a thick sticky film on my teeth that I sometimes get with other strips. My teeth also look noticeably whiter and brighter after use— it’s a great fix for right before an event,” says Glamour commerce writer Alanna Martine Kilkeary.
How to use: Step one: Peel the strip from its backing liner. Step two: Apply the strip to your upper and lower teeth, aligning it with your gum line. Step three: Wear for 30 minutes, then remove and discard. No need to rinse. You may see results after just a few treatments; full results are typically visible after 14 days of daily use.
Best Whitening Toothpaste: Sensodyne Pronamel Active Shield Whitening Toothpaste
.png)
This is one of those teeth-whitening treatments that both Dr. Sands and Dr. Rajpal recommend to their patients with sensitive teeth. “This pick contains fluoride and potassium nitrate, which helps calm nerve sensitivity while removing surface stains gradually,” explains Dr. Rajpal. “Anyone with sensitive teeth should use potassium nitrate in combination with any form of teeth whitening.”
Dr. Sands says that this toothpaste is arguably his favorite teeth-whitening toothpaste for sensitivity. “Not only is it formulated with gentle whitening agents that help brighten the appearance of your teeth, but it also works to strengthen your enamel and prevent tooth erosion by building up your teeth’s resistance to acids,” he explains.
How to use: Step one: Apply a pea-size amount of toothpaste to a soft-bristled toothbrush. Step two: Brush thoroughly for two minutes, twice daily, morning and night. Step three: Spit out after brushing; do not swallow. For best results, use consistently as part of your daily oral care routine. Gentle enough for everyday use on sensitive teeth.
Best Natural Whitening Strips: Lumineux Whitening Strips
.png)
If you’re looking for a more natural whitening product for your sensitive teeth, Dr. Sands recommends this pick. “Formulated with coconut oil and dead sea salt, these whitening strips are perfect for those with sensitive teeth,” he says. “These strips are peroxide-free, making them a very gentle alternative.”
How to use: Step one: Remove the upper and lower strips from the backing. Step two: Apply to top and bottom teeth, aligning with the gum line. Step three: Leave on for 30 minutes. Step four: Remove strips and rinse or brush away any residue. Use once daily for seven days; maintain results with one to two uses per week.
Best Whitening Mouthwash for Sensitive Gums: TheraBreath Whitening Mouthwash
.png)
Dealing with delicate gums? Dr. Sands likes this pick for sensitive gums because it’s an alcohol-free, peroxide-free mouthwash that is a fantastic whitening solution for those who also have sensitive teeth. Unfortunately, both alcohol and peroxide can irritate gums and cause gum sensitivity—this formulation uses a combination of natural enzymes and gentle oxidizers to lift surface stains on the teeth and prevent new ones from forming. “Though results take a bit longer compared to when using other whitening products, I still strongly recommend this product since it does a great job at gently whitening teeth,” he says.
How to use: Step one: Pour one to two capfuls into a cup (about 15 mL). Step two: Rinse mouth thoroughly for one minute. Step three: Spit out; do not swallow. Step four: For best results, use twice daily after brushing.
Best High-Tech Whitening Kit: Snow Wireless Teeth Whitening Kit
.png)
Dr. Sands recommends this LED whitening kit for two reasons. First, it’s formulated with a lower concentration of peroxide, making it less aggressive on sensitive teeth. Second, the formulation is boosted by the brand’s signature LED accelerator, which helps activate and accelerate the whitening process without relying on high-intensity ingredients.The LED light doesn’t necessarily magnify the formula per se, but it does support a more efficient reaction—delivering visible brightening through a gentler, sensitivity-considerate process. “Although it is a bit on the pricier side, this product is a quick way to obtain a brighter smile at home without compromising comfort and causing any sensitivity.”
“I’ve never used an LED mouthpiece whitener before, and I’m now totally obsessed. I was really impressed with how easy this kit was to use. All you have to do is charge the mouthpiece, brush your teeth, apply the whitening pen gel to your teeth, and then put the LED mouthpiece in your mouth for nine to 30 minutes. I tried to use it almost every day while testing, and I definitely noticed a difference in the whiteness of my teeth after the testing process was done (about three weeks).
“The most amazing part while testing this pick was the lack of sensitivity I felt. I am the most sensitive girlie through and through, and I’ve always had issues with teeth sensitivity. I have trouble using teeth-whitening products with high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide, as I find them way too aggressive. Amazingly, I had no issues with the Snow Wireless Teeth Whitening Kit. It’s super gentle and I’m excited to continue to add it to my oral hygiene routine.” says Glamour contributor Daley Quinn.
How to use: Step one: Brush your teeth to remove any debris and prepare for whitening. Step two: Apply the whitening serum evenly to the front surfaces of your teeth using the provided applicator. Step three: Insert the wireless LED mouthpiece into your mouth and turn it on. Step four: Wear the device for nine to 30 minutes, depending on your sensitivity and desired results. Step five: Remove the mouthpiece, rinse your mouth with water, and clean the device as instructed.
Best Pre-Filled Whitening Trays: Opalescence Go 15% Whitening Kit
.png)
Make at-home teeth whitening super easy for yourself with these prefilled whitening trays. Compared to other products on this list, the Opalescence Go 15% Whitening Kit is a bit more intense than the rest. Dr. Rajpal recommends them because the prefilled trays offer professional-level whitening with minimal sensitivity. “The Opalescence Go Kit has reasonably high levels of hydrogen peroxide, which makes it a bit stronger than some of the other over-the-counter kits. Hydrogen peroxide typically presents a more intense whitening in a shorter amount of time than kits containing carbamide peroxide,” says Dr. Rajpal. “I recommend using the Opalescence UltraEZ Desensitizing Gel in combination with this.”
How to use: Step one: Remove the tray from the packaging. Step two: Place the tray on your upper teeth, aligning it properly. Step three: Gently bite down and suck on the tray for two seconds to ensure a snug fit. Step four: Carefully remove the colored outer tray, leaving the clear inner tray in place. Step five: Repeat the process for your lower teeth. Step six: Wear the trays for 15 to 20 minutes. Step seven: After the allotted time, remove the trays and brush your teeth to eliminate any residual whitening gel.
Best Natural Oil Pulling for Whitening: Gurunanda Cocomint Oil Pulling Mouthwash
.png)
If you’re looking for a completely chemical-free approach, Dr. Rajpal recommends trying the Gurunanda Cocomint Oil Pulling Mouthwash. “This utilizes the natural antibacterial properties of coconut oil to gently remove mild stains and promote oral health without sensitivity,” she explains. “However, it may not penetrate deeper stains like peroxide gels do.”
How to use: Step one: Pour one tablespoon of oil into your mouth. Step two: Swish gently for two to 10 minutes (start with less time if you’re new to oil pulling). Step three: Spit the oil into a trash can (not the sink, to avoid clogging). Step four: Rinse your mouth with warm water. Step five: Brush your teeth as usual.
Best Drugstore LED Whitening Kit: Colgate Optic White ComfortFit LED Whitening Kit
.png)
Dr. Rajpal recommends this pick from Colgate because it combines a flexible LED teeth-whitening light with 9% hydrogen peroxide serum, offering a comfortable fit with just a 10-minute per day wear time. Unlike most LED teeth-whitening lights, which are rigid, this one is flexible, allowing it to mold to your mouth for a more uniform whitening experience. Plus, compared to in-office treatments that typically use hydrogen peroxide levels anywhere between 25% to 40%, the 9% is pretty low and safe for sensitive teeth.
“I’ll be honest, I’ve always been a bit skeptical about LED tooth-whitening systems—they just sort of feel a little extra. I gave this one a go recently, though, and was pleasantly surprised at how easy it was to apply and how quickly it worked. Simply apply the gel, wait 10 seconds for it to dry, and then wear the LED light for about 10 minutes. My teeth looked and felt brighter and whiter after using this, and I can definitely see myself reaching for it again before I have a fancy occasion,” says Glamour’s Kilkeary.
How to use: Click the pen until gel appears. Apply to each tooth, clicking the pen for more gel as needed. Let dry 10 to 15 seconds. Plug the flexible light into your phone for power. Bite down on the bite strips to position it in your mouth. Wear for 10 minutes. Brush off excess gel. You’ll notice best results after three to five days.
Frequently asked questions
Can yellow teeth become white again?
Yes, yellow teeth can become white again, but the approach depends on the cause of the yellowing and the level of discoloration. “Extrinsic stains from food and drink are easier to remove with polishing agents,” explains Dr. Rajpal. “In most cases, deeper stains from regular use of food and drinks like coffee, tea, red wine, and dark berries can be penetrated and removed with whitening methods like peroxide gels.” However, intrinsic stains on natural teeth from medication or trauma (where there is inconsistent discoloration from varied tooth enamel structure) may require restorative professional treatments, like composite bonding or veneers.
Can tooth sensitivity go away?
A day or two after whitening, any sensitivity should typically subside. “For a few days after whitening, it is best to avoid hot, old, or acidic foods and drinks to prevent triggering sensitivity,” explains Dr. Rajpal. “Toothpastes like Sensodyne or gels with potassium nitrate, and anti-inflammatories like Advil, can help block pain signals and reduce sensitivity.”
Meet the experts
- Anjali Rajpal, DDS, a cosmetic dentist and CEO of Beverly Hills Dental Arts
- Kevin B. Sands, DDS, a cosmetic dentist and founder of Cosmetic Dentistry Beverly Hills
.jpg)
