Want a Brighter Smile? These Whitening Products Don’t Disappoint

Many of us dream of having that radiant, ‘Close-Up’ smile, only to be disappointed by stubborn stains, plaques, and discolouration. Factors like what we eat (Coffee and red wine, especially), age, dental hygiene habits, and genetics can dull our pearly whites over time. 

If you’re looking to brighten your smile, you're in luck! You can use various teeth whitening options from the comfort of your home or while on the road to a function. These range from whitening toothpastes, such as Sensodyne Pronamel Daily Protection, to convenient strips like iWhite Natural Dissolving Whitening Strips and the easy-to-use EFERO Teeth Whitening Pen.

While they may not yield the same results or be as intensive as in-office treatments, they can make your teeth whiter by a shade or two.

Experience a brighter, more confident smile with Sensodyne Pronamel Daily Protection Toothpaste, a popular choice in Nigeria, recommended by my colleague, Odunmorayo Ayobami. This toothpaste gently buffs away stains while providing robust protection for your enamel. 

Thanks to its formulation with fluoride to strengthen enamel, potassium nitrate to relieve sensitivity, and mild polishing agents to combat surface stains, you can enjoy coffee and acidic diet Drinks (such as citrus, energy drinks, and soda) without worry.

Why We Love It: Its minty, SLS-free formula leaves your breath fresher without stripping enamel or irritating gums. It is also a perfect choice for those with sensitive teeth.

Price: ₦10,181.41. Where To Buy: Shop Care To Beauty.

The best part about strips is how convenient and easy they are to use, making them an excellent option for busy individuals. The iWhite Natural Dissolving Whitening Strips claim to whiten teeth up to 7 shades in just 15 minutes daily for 14 days. It is formulated with all-natural ingredients that gently target stains without damaging enamel. 

Their natural formula makes them ideal for sensitive teeth, though overuse can still trigger sensitivity or enamel erosion. Use one strip per arch once daily for 14 days to maximise results and minimise risks. 

Price: ₦45,810.47 Where to Buy: Shop Care to Beauty.

The EFERO Teeth Whitening Pen is easy to use and can be applied on the go, making it perfect for use before an important event. It doesn't require elaborate performance and delivers up to 4–8 shades of whiter teeth in 2–3 weeks. 

Powered by 35% carbamide peroxide—the same trusted bleaching agent dentists use—it quickly oxidises stubborn stains to brighten teeth. 

Ideal for mild sensitivity, its gentle formula minimises discomfort while strengthening your teeth’s protective layer, the enamel. Use once daily for two weeks to see results. However, avoid overuse, as excessive treatments can lead to increased sensitivity and enamel erosion. 

Price: ₦3,500. Where to Buy: Shop Ginax Store.

The iWhite Glow Whitening Diamond Kit is clinically proven to whiten teeth to 8 shades whiter in just 20 minutes. It uses Whitening Amplifying Technology, infusing diamond-like sparkles, blue crystal particles, and glow enhancers to break up stains and reflect more light. 

You pop in the ultra-thin trays once a day for 20 minutes over five consecutive days or sporadically as needed. While it’s generally safe for most individuals, those with sensitive teeth should use it with caution.

Inside the box, you’ll find 10 ultra-thin, disposable trays prefilled with a clear, glitter-infused gel that shimmers with blue crystal particles and diamond-like sparkles—no messy syringes or mixing required.

Price: ₦59,002.73. Where to Buy: Shop Care to Beauty

Palmstar Activated Charcoal Powder utilises super-fine charcoal to capture and lift surface stains from your daily coffee, tea, and even tobacco. Think of it like a tiny sponge soaking up discolouration, with a gentle scrubbing to buff away what's loosened. 

While studies suggest they can help with these external stains, they may not provide the dramatically brighter smile you'd get from peroxide-based whiteners. Remember, charcoal can be slightly abrasive and may wear down your enamel over time. To maintain strong and healthy teeth, it's a good idea to alternate with a regular fluoride toothpaste. 

This routine works well if your teeth aren't too sensitive; however, if you're prone to sensitivity, start slowly or consult your dentist first.

Price: ₦4,000. Where to Buy: Shop Konga

Read Also: Charcoal Toothpaste: Pros, Cons, and Top Brands in Nigeria

WhiteLight Super Fast Laser Teeth Whitening pairs a blue-light laser with peroxide gel to brighten your teeth. In trials, it brightened teeth by two shades a week and up to six shades in two weeks by accelerating the peroxide’s stain-fighting action. The gel’s natural enzymes and lower peroxide levels help curb sensitivity, making it gentle enough for most users. 

If your teeth aren’t too sensitive, daily 30-minute sessions work well; otherwise, switch to every other day. Stick to 15 minutes per session and no more than three times a week—overusing it can thin enamel, raise sensitivity, and irritate gums.

Price: ₦3,500. Where to Buy: Shop Cart Rollers.

Want whiter teeth in just a week? Listerine Advanced White Milder Taste mouthwash can help! Just swish twice a day after brushing. It's like a gentle stain remover for your teeth that won't hurt their enamel. It contains fluoride to keep them strong and natural oils to help zap away plaque-causing germs. 

If you find regular mouthwash too strong, this one’s a game-changer with its milder taste and no alcohol, meaning less pain and irritation. 

Price: ₦14,217.01. Where to Buy: Shop Care to Beauty.

These at-home teeth whitening products offer a range of options for individuals looking to brighten their smiles. From simple whitening toothpastes and strips to more intensive kits with LED lights, there's something for everyone. While the effectiveness varies, they all aim to reduce stains and give you that bright “Close-Up” smile. 

Many products also focus on being gentle, which is excellent for sensitive teeth. However, it's essential to remember that you must use these products consistently and exactly as instructed to achieve results and prevent potential issues, such as increased sensitivity or enamel damage. Don't expect instant miracles; always be mindful of how your teeth react.