How to use every type of over-the-counter teeth whitening product (and which ones really work)

Experts share the best over-the-counter teeth whitening products of 2026 for a brighter smile, including Crest Whitestrips, Sensodyne and whitening pens.

A professional whitening treatment at the dentist’s office is the fastest and most effective way to see results, but it’s costly and time consuming. If you’re leaning toward using over-the-counter teeth whitening products, there’s no shortage of options, like strips, gels, toothpastes and mouthwashes. But do they work? It depends on which one you use, how well you follow the directions and what your expectations are. To help you choose an option that addresses your needs, I talked to dentists about the pros and cons of each type of OTC teeth whitening product, including when (and if) you’ll see a visible difference in tooth color. Using experts’ guidance, I rounded up the best options from brands like Crest, Sensodyne, Act and Colgate, many of which the NBC Selected team tested.

Want more from NBC Selected? Sign up for our newsletter, The Selection, and shop smarter. The best OTC teeth whitening products of 2026 All of the over-the-counter teeth whitening products below meet experts’ guidance (learn more about how experts recommend shopping for them here). I included options with the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance, those NBC Selected staff members have tested, NBC Selected Wellness Award-winners and other highly rated treatments. Best OTC teeth whitening strips and trays No matter how many times our team tests teeth whitening strips, Crest’s