If you want to achieve whiter teeth, you may be looking into the best teeth whitening products to help you on your journey to a brighter smile and for a method that promises zero fuss, zero mess, and the minimum amount of wait time possible, teeth whitening pens are the best way to go.
They don't promise long-lasting results like other home whitening treatments, such as whitening kits and teeth whitening strips, but they’re perfect for anyone looking to add a quick-fix whiteness to their smile ahead of an event or special occasion, or wanting to do a last-minute touch-up on the go.
Easy to use, handbag friendly, and much less intrusive compared to other treatments, we've rounded up the best whitening pens you can buy in the UK to get your teeth looking pearly white in no time at all.
Best teeth whitening pens at a glance:
• Best overnight teeth whitening pen: Colgate Max White Overnight Teeth Whitening Pen - view on Boots
• Best teeth whitening pen for sensitive teeth: Mr Bright Teeth Whitening Pen - view on Boots
• Best-rated teeth whitening pen: SmileTime Teeth Whitening Pen - view on SmileTime Teeth
• Best value teeth whitening pen: Smile Science Harley Street Professional Teeth Whitening Pen - view on Sephora
Structurally shaped like a pen, this product contains a whitening gel with a brush for application. This gel contains a low concentration of bleach, typically hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, that can break down stains on the surface of the tooth, and in turn, lighten the shade of the tooth enamel.
Best teeth whitening pens
Best overnight teeth whitening pen
![Colgate Max White Overnight Teeth Whitening Pen](https://images.bauerhosting.com/legacy/media/6250/69c9/74cc/d463/df08/e7ff/Colgate%20Max%20White%20Overnight%20Teeth%20Whitening%20Pen.png?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
www.boots.com
Don't want to worry about waiting for it to work or having to rinse it before you leave the house? The Colgate Max White Overnight Teeth Whitening Pen has been designed to be used overnight and can reportedly reverse 15 years of discolouration caused by food and drink in three weeks. Each pen has a precise applicator brush and contains 35 nightly treatments with the active ingredient being hydrogen peroxide.
Our review: “I have really sensitive teeth that even some toothpastes can cause me mild pain, so I’m mindful about what products I use. I didn’t feel any discomfort while using this pen and I love how it works overnight so you don’t even notice that you’ve got it on. It is super easy to apply, you just need to click it a couple of times until you see the product come out the end of the brush and then cover your teeth with a thin layer. I’ve been using it every night for over a month now and have started to notice the improvements to the discolouration on my teeth. If you're looking for a product that is going to subtly whiten your teeth over time, this is a great option.”
Pros
- Works overnight so you can eat and drink like normal throughout the day
- Reverses 15 years of discolouration within three weeks
- 35 treatments included
Cons
- Brush can get a bit tacky with product if not wiped with a tissue after every use
Best viral teeth whitening pen
![Spotlight Oral Care Teeth Whitening Pen](https://images.bauerhosting.com/affiliates/sites/9/2023/03/Spotlight-Oral-Care-Teeth-Whitening-Pen.jpg?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
uk.spotlightoralcare.com
Created by dentists Dr Lisa and Dr Vanessa, this clinically formulated whitening pen is designed to work in as little as 20 minutes. Formulated with the ingredient hydrogen peroxide, the easy-apply formula actively dissolves stains for long-lasting results without causing sensitivity or harm to tooth health. Use Spotlight oral care daily, on the go, or as a top-up after other whitening treatments.
Customer review: "Just amazing and really made a considerable difference in a really short space of time."
Pros
- Perfect for whitening on the go
- Cruelty-free and vegan
- Removes daily tea and coffee stains
Cons
- Some reviewers thought they should have more product for their money
Best teeth whitening pen for quick results
![Wisdom Intense White Instant Whitening Pen](https://images.bauerhosting.com/legacy/media/6250/69da/253f/34e8/7879/2461/Wisdom%20Intense%20White%20Instant%20Whitening%20Pen.png?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
www.boots.com
Clinically proven to whiten teeth by up to two shades after a single use, the Wisdom Intense White Instant Whitening Pen is a quick and convenient way to help brighten your smile. The whitening gel has been formulated with the active ingredient sodium chlorite to provide effective stain removal applied with the unique silicone applicator. Use once for an instant colour shift or once a day over a course of five days for maximum whitening results.
Customer review: "This product really worked! It really made a difference and my teeth looked brighter and whitened, it’s also handy to pop in your handbag!"
Pros
- Clinically proven to make teeth two shades whiter in a single use
- Works in 15 minutes
- No need to brush your teeth after using
Cons
- Some felt the brush was a bit big to get into the edges and coat the sides of their teeth
Best teeth whitening pen for sensitive teeth
![Mr Bright Teeth Whitening Pen](https://images.bauerhosting.com/legacy/media/6250/69d3/e311/3f86/1692/5ac2/Mr%20Bright%20Teeth%20Whitening%20Pen.png?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
www.boots.com
Bright by name, bright by nature! The Mr Bright Teeth Whitening Pen is easy to apply with a soft, gentle brush head and uses zero harmful chemicals to remove enamel stains and reduce tooth decay. Clinically approved and certified: it requires a longer wear time, but you can expect to see results in as little as 10 minutes. Users found it was great for top-ups with no issues with sensitive teeth.
Customer review: "I was really impressed with this product, it says what it does and offers a great finish. My teeth now look really healthy and white!"
Pros
- Lasts for up to 40 uses
- Perfect size for popping in your handbag for on-the-go top ups
- Ideal for those with teeth sensitivity
Cons
- Some felt the gel was a little thick
Best-rated teeth whitening pen
![SmileTime Teeth Whitening Pen](https://images.bauerhosting.com/affiliates/sites/9/2023/03/SmileTime-Teeth-Whitening-Pen.jpg?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
www.smiletimeteeth.com
With over 1,000 reviews and an average rating of five out of five stars, the SmileTime Teeth Whitening Pen is definitely a fan favourite. Designed to deliver results in as little as just one minute, it's formulated with an advanced non-peroxide active whitening ingredient that's UK-approved and vegan-friendly. They advise using this pen to top up your smile or to use it as a brightening highlighter effect before a photo or special occasion.
Customer review: "Don't hesitate to give them a shot! I've noticed a significant difference in my coffee-stained teeth after using it on a daily basis for two weeks. I highly recommend it."
Pros
- Promises quick results
- Vegan friendly
- Non-peroxide active whitening ingredient
Cons
- Some felt that the product could be bigger
Best value teeth whitening pen
![Smile Science Harley Street Professional Teeth Whitening Pen](https://images.bauerhosting.com/legacy/media/6250/69c4/74cc/d4e3/ec08/e7fe/Smile%20Science%20Harley%20Street%20Professional%20Teeth%20Whitening%20Pen.png?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
www.sephora.co.uk
This dentist-approved teeth whitening pen from the Smile Science Harley Street clinic contains an enamel-friendly formula with nourishing and strengthening ingredients for a whiter smile. A good option for sensitive teeth, it should also help protect teeth and gums whilst the applicator gently agitates deep-set stains. Each pen contains approximately 30 applications with results in as little as one minute.
Customer review: "Really happy with the results as my teeth were whiter after using this pen. Easy to understand instructions and no sensitivity."
Pros
- Dentist-approved
- Great price
- Gentle on tooth enamel
Cons
- Not many reviews
Best celebrity teeth whitening pen
![Moon Kendall Jenner Teeth Whitening Pen](https://images.bauerhosting.com/legacy/media/6250/69be/7318/7bf2/5d7d/ffb7/Moon%20Kendall%20Jenner%20Teeth%20Whitening%20Pen.png?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
www.boots.com
We've all heard of the Kardashians, and while we're sure they're using much more expensive teeth whitening treatments, this whitening pen from MOON x Kendall Jenner should help your smile feel a little brighter on a budget. Designed to brighten your smile and work on tough stains, the 100 per cent vegan formula uses a lovely vanilla mint flavour for lasting freshness. It's recommended to use it twice a day for a maximum of two weeks at a time.
Customer review: "I was not expecting this to work because whitening pens have not been great in the past but this really did whiten my teeth to the point that other people noticed. Nice packaging, easy to use and effective!"
Pros
- Has nice vanilla mint taste
- Free from SLS/SLES, parabens and artificial flavours
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Cons
- Cannot be used in combination with coffee, tea, cigarettes or other substances that may impact the whitening effect
Best tooth whitening pen with added benefits
![Pearl Drops Strong and White Overnight Serum](https://images.bauerhosting.com/legacy/media/6250/69ba/b332/9c08/c851/9cad/Pearl%20Drops%20Strong%20and%20White%20Overnight%20Serum%20.png?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
www.superdrug.com
Described as the 'first beauty serum for teeth and gums', this is another overnight whitening treatment with added healthy teeth benefits. With Pearl Drops' patented Liquid Calcium technology, the surface enamel is strengthened against acid erosion, lost gloss is restored, and the active oxygen gives an extra boost to whiteness lost over time. It also includes gum and enamel-friendly vitamin E and refreshing mint oils and is safe for everyday use.
Customer review: "It was a pleasure to use the pearl drops whitening pen and toothpaste. I saw a noticeable difference after the first use, my teeth are stained as I'm a tea/coffee drinker. Easy to use, pleasant taste and effective results, I believe with continuous use my teeth will be a few shades whiter."
Pros
- Designed to strengthen surface enamel
- Improves gloss and shine of teeth
- Contains Vitamin E and refreshing mint oils
Cons
- Needs to be left on for at least 30 minutes
FAQs
Do teeth whitening pens work?
Teeth whitening pens and results can vary but for the most part, teeth whitening pens are effective teeth stain removers and will help you with achieving whiter teeth. However, it’s worth keeping in mind that this type of home whitening won’t provide a permanent solution. It’ll work well in the short term when used as a maintenance tool, but for more effective, long-lasting results, you so should investigate other options such as kits and strips.
How to use a whitening pen:
Application instructions can vary with different teeth whitening pens, but for the most part, the process is super easy:
- Twist the pen to dispense gel onto the application brush
- Use the brush to paint the whitening gel onto your teeth
- Leave in place for five to 30 minutes (dependent on the pen)
- Rinse your mouth to remove excess gel
- Use daily to maintain whitening effects
How long does it take to whiten teeth with a whitening pen?
The results of a teeth whitening pen can appear in as little as a matter of days to a couple of weeks.
How often should you use a whitening pen?
Different pens have different requirements, and you should read the instructions for your chosen whitening pen before beginning with the treatment. For example, the Moon Kendall Jenner Teeth Whitening Pen is advised for use for a maximum of two times a day for two weeks whilst the Spotlight Oral Care Teeth Whitening Pen recommends an ongoing daily treatment.
Are whitening pens safe?
Whitening pens are generally safe to use, so long as you use them as outlined and check for any safety advice. For example, some kits are not suitable for anyone under the age of 12 and can’t be used if you are pregnant or have existing dental concerns such as ulcers or exposed gums.
As with any form of at-home teeth whitening, some side effects can include tooth sensitivity, gum irritation, and damage to the tooth enamel if overused.
Always do your research before purchasing and check the ingredients list for gentle ingredients or a low concentration of harsh bleach, and for any known allergies. And, of course, if irritation occurs, stop using the treatment. It’s recommended to seek advice from your dentist before undertaking new treatments if you’re in any doubt or you’re concerned about the sensitivity of your teeth.
Looking for longer-lasting results? A teeth whitening kit may be what you're looking for as they usually come with a mouth guard, activating solution, a syringe of gel, and a UV light to help you achieve a more dazzling smile at home.
Eleanor Weaver is the Deputy Homes & Garden Product Editor for Yours, specialising in home décor, furnishings and appliances. Having worked commercially on Yours magazine and Yours.co.uk for the past six years, she's previously hosted Yours Live events and loves looking for home inspiration online.