Aquafresh White Trays

Bottom line

Aquafresh White Trays produce noticeable results in a relatively short amount of time; unfortunately, they do not fit everyone equally. Several users complain of an uncomfortable fit as well as leaking gel that is messy and irritating to gums. Overall, experts say you are better off using a custom fit tray from your dentist.

Performance

Noticeable results. Aquafresh White Trays are pre-filled whitening trays that are worn for 45 minutes a day for seven days. They contain a 10-percent hydrogen peroxide solution. For the most part reviewers say the whitening trays work. In an informal test at TotalBeauty.com, they whitened an average of one shade over the course of treatment. Testers say that results are noticeable after three days. Users at Amazon.com and Drugstore.com agree -- most are impressed with the results. One says they get your teeth "really white," and another says results were better than expected.

Editors at TeethWhiteningReviews.com say, "The disposable trays are effective, but they are never better than a custom mold tray of your own teeth."

Ease of use

One size does not fit all. Aquafresh White Trays are simple in theory -- just slip them on your teeth, and let the bleaching agents go to work. In reality, however, several users say the trays are ill-fitting and therefore messy or uncomfortable. One user says, "My only complaint is that the trays are too small and cover just the front and side-front teeth." For the full whitening effect, the trays must be worn for 45 minutes. As with all whitening trays, users say it's difficult to talk while wearing them, but for many this is a minor inconvenience.

Testers at TotalBeauty.com also warn that the gel tends to leak out of the trays forcing users to "spit out gobs of it -- not pleasant." Some users even say the teeth whitening gel ran down their throats.

Safety

Gum irritation. Although Aquafresh White Trays are safe to use if your teeth and gums are in good health, we found many complaints of gum irritation. Because trays are not custom-fit to your teeth, it's difficult to keep bleaching agents away from the gum line. Users say this results in sore, inflamed gums that turn white and bleed. Some users say discomfort fades with continued use, but editors at TeethWhiteningReviews.com suggest wiping away any excess gel after fitting the trays to your teeth.