Buzz
Image: ProvidedIf the phrase "teeth whitener" instantly makes your smile tingle, you’ll want to read this. With 18 years as a beauty editor under my belt, I’ve tried countless products, including a wide range of teeth whiteners. From high-end, painful professional treatments (like the one I endured before my wedding) to bulky at-home kits with futuristic-looking lights that clutter your counter, I’ve seen it all. There are also pastes that promise to erase years of coffee and wine stains in a single use—if only! Through my trials, I’ve learned that the most effective options often come with some level of discomfort. And while they say beauty requires sacrifice, tooth sensitivity is a tough price to pay.
Recently, I had the chance to connect with Made By Dentists, a brand founded by sister dentists Dr. Lisa Creaven and Dr. Vanessa Creaven. After selling their dental practice in 2016, they shifted their focus to revolutionizing oral care. Their standout features include eco-friendly packaging made from recycled materials, formulas free from SLS, parabens, DEA, propylene glycol, and triclosan—ingredients still prevalent in many mainstream brands—and a commitment to being cruelty-free.
The children's rechargeable electric toothbrushes and fun toothpaste designs feature green monsters, blue sharks, and purple aliens, which my toddlers absolutely adore. Their adult line is stylish, affordable, and available at Target and Amazon. Their Sonic Toothbrush, priced under $100, has become my husband's top choice—he even switched from a much pricier brand (no exaggeration).
Then, I tested their new Teeth Whitening Powder. After 18 years in the beauty industry, it’s rare for a product to surprise me, but this one truly caught my attention. The white powder container reminded me of exfoliating additives from skincare brands, and it turns out, this product works similarly for your teeth.
The dentist sisters formulated this powder with three whitening agents: Phthalimido-peroxy-caproic acid (PAP), Hydroxyapatite, and diamond powder, which oxidize stains. You can either dip your toothpaste-covered brush into the powder or sprinkle it on with your fingers for a whitening boost safe for twice-daily use. The minimalist packaging fits seamlessly next to my electric toothbrush. I applied my usual toothpaste, dipped it into the fine powder, and brushed as normal. The subtle minty flavor was pleasant, and the experience felt no different from regular brushing—no harsh abrasiveness. After a week, my smile was visibly brighter, and others noticed too. My mom even asked what I’d done differently. Unlike other whitening treatments that can harm enamel, this powder is gentle and non-abrasive.
Growing up, my parents emphasized the importance of dental care. I’ve never missed a six-month cleaning and, knock on wood, have never had a cavity. While I still opt for professional whitening occasionally, this at-home powder is a game-changer. Priced under $25 on Amazon, it’s compact, user-friendly, and delivers impressive results. Here’s a photo of my smile after a few weeks of use. Pro tip: Pair it with the right nude lipstick for your skin tone to make your teeth appear even brighter. I’m all set to flash my smile in holiday photos.
