I’ve always been a bit self-conscious about my smile. Years of coffee, red wine, and the occasional curry have left my teeth less than dazzling.
So, when I decided to try Crest 3D Whitestrips, I was faced with a choice: Level 12 (Professional Bright) or Level 18 (Professional Effects)? Both promise whiter teeth, but which one’s right for me—or you?
In this article, I’ll share my experience comparing these two popular whitening strips, breaking down their pros, cons, and key features to help you decide which fits your smile goals.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Level 12 (Professional Bright) | Level 18 (Professional Effects) |
| Whitening Level | Up to 12 levels whiter | Up to 18 levels whiter |
| Treatment Duration | 18 days, 30 minutes daily | 20 days, 45 minutes daily |
| Hydrogen Peroxide | ~10% | ~14% |
| Treatments per Box | 36 strips (18 upper, 18 lower) | 40 strips (20 upper, 20 lower) |
| Best For | Moderate stains, sensitive teeth | Heavy stains, dramatic results |
| Price (Approx.) | $35–$45 | $45–$60 |
| Sensitivity Risk | Lower | Higher |
| LED Light Option | No | Optional |
My Whitening Journey Begins
I’ll admit, I was skeptical about whitening strips at first. I’d heard stories of sensitivity, uneven results, and strips that slide around like they’re auditioning for a dance competition.
But Crest’s reputation as the #1 dentist-recommended at-home whitening brand gave me confidence. I wanted a brighter smile without breaking the bank on professional treatments, so I grabbed both the Level 12 and Level 18 kits to test them head-to-head.
My goal? To see which one delivered the best results for my coffee-stained teeth while keeping my smile comfortable and my wallet happy.
Understanding Crest Whitestrips
Before we get into the details, let’s talk about what makes Crest Whitestrips tick.
These are thin, flexible plastic strips coated with a hydrogen peroxide gel that whitens teeth by breaking down stain molecules in the enamel and dentin.
The process is simple: peel, apply, wait, and remove.
The strips use Advanced Seal Technology, which means they stick to your teeth like a clingy friend, allowing you to talk or sip water without them slipping off.
Both Level 12 and Level 18 are enamel-safe, but their strength, application time, and results differ significantly.
Key Features of Level 12 (Professional Bright)
The Level 12 kit, known as Professional Bright, is designed for those who want noticeable whitening without going all-in. It promises to whiten teeth up to 12 levels in 18 days, with daily 30-minute applications.
Each box contains 36 strips (18 for upper teeth, 18 for lower), and the hydrogen peroxide concentration is around 10%, according to research I found. This makes it a solid choice for moderate stains from coffee, tea, or wine.
Pros of Level 12
- Gentler on Teeth: The lower 10% hydrogen peroxide concentration means less risk of sensitivity, which was a big plus for me since my teeth aren’t fans of cold drinks.
- Shorter Application Time: At 30 minutes a day, it’s easy to fit into a busy schedule. I’d pop them on while watching a show, and the time flew by.
- Affordable: Priced around $35–$45, it’s budget-friendly compared to professional whitening or even the Level 18 kit.
- Effective for Moderate Stains: My teeth, stained from daily coffee, lightened by about six shades after a week, which was noticeable but not blinding.
- Comfortable Fit: The strips stayed put thanks to the no-slip grip, and I could talk or drink water without issues.
Cons of Level 12
- Limited Whitening Power: If your teeth are heavily stained, Level 12 might not cut it. It’s designed for moderate discoloration, not dramatic transformations.
- Slower Results: While I saw changes after a few days, the full 12-level effect takes the entire 18-day regimen, which requires patience.
- Coverage Issues: The strips didn’t fully cover my canines, which left slight unevenness in whitening.
- No LED Light: Unlike some Crest kits, Level 12 doesn’t come with an LED accelerator, which might boost results.
Key Features of Level 18 (Professional Effects)
The Level 18 kit, or Professional Effects, is the heavy hitter, promising up to 18 levels of whitening in 20 days with 45-minute daily applications.
It contains 40 strips (20 upper, 20 lower) and uses a higher hydrogen peroxide concentration, around 14%.
This kit is for those with stubborn stains or anyone chasing a Hollywood-worthy smile.
Some versions include an LED light for enhanced whitening, though I tested the standard kit.
Pros of Level 18
- Powerful Whitening: The 14% hydrogen peroxide concentration tackled my deeper stains, lightening my teeth by about 10 shades after 10 days. The results were striking.
- Professional-Level Results: Crest claims it mimics dentist-office treatments, and I can see why. My smile looked polished and natural, not overly bleached.
- Long-Lasting Effects: The whitening lasted about six months with good maintenance, like using a whitening toothpaste.
- No-Slip Technology: Like Level 12, these strips stayed in place, letting me multitask without worrying about them sliding around.
- Optional LED Light: Some kits include a light to boost whitening, though I didn’t use it. Users report it helps with stubborn stains.
Cons of Level 18
- Higher Sensitivity Risk: The stronger formula caused mild sensitivity for me after a few days, especially with cold water. It faded quickly, but it’s worth noting.
- Longer Application Time: At 45 minutes daily, it’s a bigger time commitment than Level 12. I found it slightly inconvenient on busy days.
- Pricier: At $45–$60, it’s more expensive than Level 12, though still cheaper than professional treatments.
- Potential Gum Irritation: The strips sometimes touched my gums, causing minor irritation. I learned to apply them carefully to avoid this.
My Experience With Both Products
I started with the Level 12 kit to ease into whitening.
The process was straightforward: peel the strip, align it with my gum line, press it down, and fold the excess behind my teeth.
The 30-minute sessions were easy to manage, and I appreciated the lack of sensitivity.
After a week, my teeth were noticeably brighter, but the results plateaued around the 10-day mark.
My snaggle tooth—a slightly misaligned bottom tooth—didn’t whiten as evenly, likely because the strip didn’t adhere well there.
Next, I tried Level 18, expecting a bolder outcome. The 45-minute sessions felt longer, but the results were worth it. By day five, my teeth were significantly whiter, and by the end of the 20-day regimen, I was thrilled with the polished look.
However, I experienced slight sensitivity around day eight, which I managed by skipping a day and using a sensitive toothpaste. The Level 18 strips covered my teeth better than Level 12, but I had to be precise to avoid gum irritation.
Other Differences Between Crest Whitestrips Level 12 And Level 18
- Effectiveness
Effectiveness is where Level 18 shines. Its higher hydrogen peroxide concentration and longer application time deliver more dramatic results.
My teeth went from a coffee-stained S24 shade to around S6 with Level 18, compared to S12 with Level 12, based on a shade guide I used.
Level 12 is great for maintenance or mild stains, but if you’re after a major transformation, Level 18 is the way to go.
That said, Level 12’s gentler formula is better for those with sensitive teeth or less severe discoloration.
- Sensitivity and Safety
Sensitivity was my biggest concern, given my teeth’s reaction to cold drinks. Level 12 was a breeze—no discomfort at all. Level 18, however, caused mild sensitivity after multiple uses, which aligns with what I read about higher peroxide concentrations.
To mitigate this, I used a desensitizing toothpaste and avoided acidic foods post-treatment. Both products are enamel-safe, but overuse can harm enamel, so I stuck to the recommended regimen.
Crest advises against use by those under 18 for Level 18 due to higher sensitivity risks in younger users.
- Application and Ease of Use
Both kits are user-friendly, thanks to Crest’s Advanced Seal Technology. The strips mold to your teeth, staying put even when I sipped water or talked. Level 12’s shorter 30-minute sessions were more convenient for my schedule, while Level 18’s 45-minute applications felt like a commitment.
I found applying the strips right after brushing less effective, as they didn’t stick as well, so I followed Crest’s advice to apply them on dry teeth. The process is simple, but precision is key to avoid uneven whitening or gum contact.
- Cost and Value
Level 12 is the more budget-friendly option at $35–$45, making it ideal for those new to whitening or on a tighter budget. Level 18, priced at $45–$60, offers better value for those seeking dramatic results, as it rivals professional treatments costing hundreds.
Both kits are cost-effective compared to in-office whitening, which can run $500 or more. I found Level 18’s results justified the extra cost, but Level 12 is a great starter kit for cautious users.
- Long-Term Results and Maintenance
After completing both regimens, I noticed Level 18’s results lasted longer—about six months versus four months for Level 12, with proper care. To maintain my smile, I used Crest 3D White toothpaste and avoided staining foods like blueberries right after treatment.
Regular flossing and rinsing with water after drinking coffee helped, too. Crest suggests using whitening strips twice a year for maintenance, except for stronger kits like Supreme, which are limited to once annually.
Who Should Use Level 12?
Level 12 is perfect for beginners, those with sensitive teeth, or anyone with mild to moderate stains. If you’re new to whitening or want subtle results without discomfort, this kit is a safe bet.
It’s also great for maintaining a professionally whitened smile. I’d recommend it to anyone who wants a brighter smile without committing to a long or intense regimen.
Who Should Use Level 18?
Level 18 is for those with heavily stained teeth or anyone chasing a dramatic, professional-level transformation. It’s ideal for special occasions or if you’re unhappy with your current tooth color.
However, if you have sensitive teeth or gums, you might need to proceed cautiously or consult a dentist first. I found it perfect for my coffee-heavy lifestyle, but it’s not for everyone.
My Verdict
After testing both, I lean toward Level 18 for its bold results. My teeth looked noticeably whiter, and the confidence boost was worth the extra time and mild sensitivity.
However, Level 12 impressed me with its ease and comfort, making it a great choice for those prioritizing simplicity. Your choice depends on your whitening goals, sensitivity level, and time commitment.
If you want a gentle spruce-up, go with Level 12. For a dazzling transformation, Level 18 is your best friend. Either way, Crest’s strips deliver on their promise of a brighter smile.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The levels indicate the whitening intensity, determined by hydrogen peroxide concentration and treatment duration. Level 12 uses ~10% peroxide for 30-minute sessions over 18 days, achieving up to 12 shades whiter. Level 18 uses ~14% peroxide for 45-minute sessions over 20 days, reaching up to 18 shades whiter.
Crest Whitestrips Supreme, available only through dentists, is the strongest with 14% hydrogen peroxide and 100 mg of gel per strip. Among retail options, Level 18 (Professional Effects) is the strongest.
The higher hydrogen peroxide concentration in stronger strips like Level 18 can cause sensitivity or irritation, which may be riskier for younger users with developing teeth. Crest recommends 18+ for safety.
The highest retail level is 34 (Radiant Express with LED Light), claiming up to 34 shades whiter. Supreme, at 14% peroxide, is the strongest but dentist-only.
Wrapping Up
You’ve got a choice to make for your smile, and I hope my experience with Crest Whitestrips Level 12 and Level 18 helps you decide. Level 12 is your go-to for a gentle, budget-friendly whitening boost, perfect for everyday maintenance.
Level 18 steps it up with professional-grade results for those stubborn stains, but it demands more time and care. Both kits are effective, enamel-safe, and easy to use, so pick based on your needs and sensitivity.
Try them out, and you’ll be flashing a confident smile in no time!