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Recently we spoke with Dr. Emanuel Layliev, a premier cosmetic dentist at the New York Center for Cosmetic Dentistry in Manhattan to get the low-down on all things teeth whitening.
We learned that contrary to the million oral care products currently on the market all claiming to give you a brighter, whiter smile, there are just a few standard products you need to achieve professional-like results at an affordable, at-home rate.
So for your convenience, we’ve gathered them all below.
Crest 3D White Whitestrips Professional Effects Teeth Whitening Kit
The most popular at-home teeth-whitening method is also the most effective, according to Dr. Layliev, who highly recommends using Crest Whitestrips. When it comes to bleaching, it’s all about contact time, and Whitestrips have the ability to stay on teeth for effective teeth-whitening.
Zoom! Whitening Pens (2 Count)
While whitening pens won’t give you an effective initial bleach, they work super well for on-the-go touch-ups. This pack from Zoom! (the company most dentist offices use for professional whitening procedures) includes two convenient pens for easy maintenance.
Colgate Optic White Advanced Teeth Whitening Toothpaste with Fluoride
Whether you choose to get professionally whitened or opt for an at-home method, it’s also helpful to add a teeth whitening toothpaste to your routine. Colgate’s Optic White Advanced Teeth Whitening Toothpaste “whitens teeth for up to 4 shades,” enamel-safe and includes cavity-fighting fluoride.
Crest 3D White Brilliance Toothpaste
Another whitening toothpaste Laylieve recommends is Crest’s 3D White Brilliance, a peppermint-flavored toothpaste with 12-hour stain protection that removes up to 95% of surface stains in 3 days and will deliver you, as one satisfied customer reported, “movie star teeth.”
Listerine Healthy White Vibrant Multi-Action Mouthwash
Packed with an anti-cavity sodium fluoride and enamel-safe formula, Listerine’s Healthy White Vibrant Multi-Action Mouthwash fights bad breath and keeps teeth healthy all while maintaining their bright, shiny shade.
Supersmile Professional Whitening Accelerator
If you really want to step up your teeth-whitening game, the Supersmile Accelerator is a highly recommended product to add to your routine and one Layliev even uses himself. The Accelerator is just abrasive enough to counteract those textured stains from coffee or wine and effectively cleanse them. Just mix a little bit of it with any toothpaste you use at home once or twice a day and it’ll keep stains at bay.
Colgate Sensitive Toothpaste
Whether you’re getting professionally whitened or opting for the at-home method, your teeth might feel sensitive afterward. If you’re concerned about sensitivity, Layliev recommends using Colgate’s Sensitive Toothpaste, which is clinically proven to provide 24/7 protection (with twice-daily brushing) two-weeks prior to your planned whitening.
(2 pack) Listerine Sensitivity Alcohol-Free Mouthwash in Fresh Mint
This alcohol-free mouthwash from Listerine will also provide around the clock relief and keep sensitivity away.
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