Beauty editors are blessed with access to almost every new product (opens in new tab) and gadget (opens in new tab) that is about to hit the market. And over the years we have done a lot of testing and have become the unofficial authority on (open in new tab) all smiles. According to science (opens in new tab), the simple act of smiling has the power to positively affect mood, lower stress levels, boost the immune system, and in some cases, extend life. If this doesn't make you want to have the whitest teeth of your life, I don't know what will.

If you don't want to pay the high cost of hiring a professional, there are ways to do it at home that will give you professional-like results without sacrificing your savings. Moreover, they do not require excessive time and effort. Peroxide, the most popular whitening ingredient, makes up most office whitening in high concentrations. However, peroxide can be used at home with the same whitening effect. Most of these options allow for lifelong improvement in as little as 10 minutes or less. So, to help you achieve pearly whites in the shortest possible time, here are some over-the-counter whiteners that actually really work.