Does This Really Work: Teeth Whitener Without Peroxide

Some teeth whiteners can make teeth feel sensitive, especially if you use them too often. This has happened to me and it makes brushing painful—yikes, it’s not worth it. I’ve been using a far less painful alternative called IntelliWhite Pout & Polish ($20, RXbright.com) created by celebrity cosmetic dentist Dr. Jennifer Jablow. This is the first teeth whitener without peroxide; instead it uses PVP, a polymer that is used to remove color from wine, and papaya enzyme to remove stains. And she even added lip gloss to the other side of the pen-like applicator, making it a great touch-up tool.

The Pout & Polish is easy to use: The erasing gel comes out on the felt tip when you twist the pen, and you rub it on in circular motions. To make sure it sets, you shouldn’t eat or drink for 20 minutes after you apply. It tastes minty, so it also freshens breath as it removes stains and with time creates a barrier on enamel to prevent new stains from creeping up. I’ve been polishing my teeth with it after meals; I noticed my teeth looked whiter after the first few times, and they don’t hurt. The clear gloss on the other end is infused with green tea, vitamin E and collagen to leave lips plump and shiny, sans any stickiness. This is enough to make you smile and show off your pearly whites.