In-office professional whitening delivers the fastest, most dramatic results – often several shades brighter in a single visit – using stronger, professional-grade gel applied under supervision. Professional take-home kits with custom trays work more gradually over one to two weeks and offer excellent results with more convenience. Both are safer and more effective than most over-the-counter products because they’re professionally supervised and use custom-fit trays. In-office is best for fast results before an event; take-home is best for gradual whitening and easy touch-ups.

A brighter smile is one of the easiest ways to look refreshed, and professional whitening is far more effective than the strips and toothpastes at the drugstore. But should you whiten in the office or at home? Here’s how the options compare.