I received these samples to test and keep from Influenster and Colgate, but the opinions in this post are honest and entirely my own. Besides the product, I was not compensated in any other way. Please read my disclosure policy here.

There’s no way around it: when it comes to my smile, I’m definitely self-conscious. My teeth have always been sensitive, especially after four years of braces. Braces and all my tea-drinking (and before that, soda) have also left my teeth prone to stains. I’ve tried whitening strips and gels in the past, but they never really whitened my teeth as expected. Needless to say, I was really excited to try out the Colgate Optic White Toothbrush and Whitening Pen, courtesy of Influenster.

The idea is simple: a specialized brush with bristles designed to remove stains with a built-in whitening pen in the barrel of the brush (it’s actually super nifty). When used with a whitening toothpaste, Colgate says you’re supposed to see whiter teeth in two days.

Now to be fair, I didn’t follow the instructions to use the whitening pen at least twice a day after brushing. At first this was because I was wary of any sensitivity the gel may have caused, like what I’ve experienced trying to whiten my teeth before. Then my excuse for using the pen every other day was my rushed mornings when I’m getting ready in the dark and exhausted evenings. The instructions also were vague on how long I should avoid eating or drinking after applying the gel, which made me hesitant to use the pen in the afternoons.

The good news is that the gel actually didn’t cause any sensitivity except for one day (after three weeks of on-and-off use), and I’m not even sure it was necessarily related to the whitening pen. The brush itself however had harder bristles than I’m used to, so it caused some gum soreness and bleeding. (I am overdue for a cleaning, so that could have contributed as well.) Applying the whitening pen is also easier than whitening strips, and it doesn’t taste as awful. It’s also very compact for traveling, and I didn’t feel weird packing the toothbrush and toothpaste for a quick trip to D.C.

The biggest question though: did it work?

I’m not sure to be honest. Even the best comparison selfies are unclear (I promise these are unedited — hello, blemishes — but I just couldn’t get the same lighting). I think some of my more minor stains were removed, but the most stubborn stains linger (I really should schedule that dentist appointment). But I do think any improvement was achieved easier than through whitening strips, so I wouldn’t discourage anyone from purchasing the toothbrush/pen combo.

Looking for a DIY way to whiten your teeth? You can never go wrong with flossing (my last dentist recommend twice a day for me) and using baking soda after your regular toothpaste.

Have any of you heard of or tried this new whitening pen yet?

~ Sarah