Cosmetic

What's the best way to whiten teeth?

Reviewed by Dr. Samuel Bacon, DDS (dentist). Last reviewed November 3, 2026.

Status: Approved

Short answer: The right whitening method depends on what caused the stains and how much change you want. Options include stain-removing toothpaste, store-bought bleaching strips, custom take-home trays from a dentist, and in-office whitening. A dental exam first shows whether bleaching will work on your stains and dental work.

Your options

  • Stain-removal toothpaste. These use mild abrasives to remove surface stains. They don't change the tooth's natural color.
  • Over-the-counter strips and gels. These use lower bleach concentrations than professional products. Look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance.
  • Custom take-home trays from a dentist. These trays are made to fit your teeth, and you whiten at your own pace with guidance. This takes from a few days to a few weeks.
  • In-office whitening. Your dentist protects your gums and applies the gel, usually in one visit.

What affects results

  • Stain type. Yellow tones usually respond well. Brown tones may respond less, and gray tones may not respond at all.
  • Cause. Whitening may not help discoloration from medication or a tooth injury.
  • Dental work. Crowns, veneers and fillings don't whiten.
  • Habits. Coffee, tea, red wine and tobacco can re-stain teeth.

The ADA cautions that DIY methods can backfire. Acidic fruit or vinegar and rough scrubs can wear away enamel. There's also no evidence that charcoal products are safe or effective for teeth.

At Indy Smile Group

We help you choose between in-office whitening (starting at $399) and custom take-home whitening (starting at $249) after a quick check of your teeth. Whitening prices are the same at all three offices and cover both arches. “Starting at” applies to regular in-office and regular take-home whitening; KöR whitening costs more, so call for details. Your dentist checks your teeth and gums first and confirms your price before treatment. Results vary, and whitening doesn't change the color of fillings, crowns or veneers. See our whitening page.
Whitening prices as of November 2026.

Next step

Ready to talk it through with a dentist? Book online or call the office closest to you.

Frequently asked questions

Are whitening strips as good as professional whitening?
Strips use lower concentrations and take longer, and the results vary. Professional options are stronger and supervised. Your dentist can help you weigh them.

Does charcoal toothpaste whiten teeth?
According to the ADA, there's no evidence that charcoal dental products are safe or effective. Products that are too abrasive can wear enamel and make teeth look more yellow.

How long does whitening take?
In-office whitening is usually one visit. Take-home trays take from a few days to a few weeks.

Sources

  1. ADA MouthHealthy – Teeth Whitening
  2. ADA – Oral Health Topics: Tooth Whitening
  3. ADA MouthHealthy – Natural Teeth Whitening: Fact vs. Fiction

Last reviewed: November 3, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Samuel Bacon, DDS (dentist)

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