Best over-the-counter teeth whitening treatments (for any lifestyle)

It could be your big day to tie the knot. Maybe you're tying your kid's shoelaces. Or perhaps you're waiting for the other shoe to drop on your company's international dealings. Wherever you are in life and whatever is ahead of you, healthy white teeth is still a box you'd like to tick. Genetics, lifestyle, food and drink choices, and oral hygiene routine are all significant factors in determining if your smile is bright — or not. But if it's not, there are various over-the-counter teeth whitening treatments that can fit into your way of life, whatever that may be.

Best for busy mums

Is there anything mums can't do? No, there isn't! But when you're balancing work, the school run, dinner and errands — the last thing you want to do is spend time messing around with whitening strips or ill-fitting trays. Instead, opt for a whitening pen as your go-to on-the-go whitening option. It's quick, portable and more convenient than mobile app orders for the triple skinny soy vanilla americano you need every morning.

Best for young professionals

You're slowly but surely working your way up the corporate ladder. You come in early, leave late and are the first to laugh at the boss's bad jokes. The one thing missing from your CV is the perfect over-the-counter teeth whitener for your hardworking lifestyle. Relax, breathe and brush with an advanced whitening toothpaste. Brushing is already part of your routine. But now the whitening power of hydrogen peroxide gives you the confidence you need to ask for the promotion you should've got last quarter.

Best for special events

Maybe you've been chosen to speak at your 25th secondary school reunion, or perhaps you're just saying "I do" in front of your closest 300 friends and family members. Either way, you and your teeth will need to look your best. Since they don't make tooth-sized wedding dresses or suits, you have ample time to better your overall oral health and help brighten up those pearly whites. And when the day comes, stash some mini-brushes in your bag or pocket. They're perfect for battling bad breath and removing nibbles from the surface of your teeth in between photos with the school football team or your significant other.

Best for: students on a budget

Instant noodles. Toilet paper. Flip flops for the shower. These are the essentials for every university student trying to make it to the next term with a shrinking bank account. But fear not, adding a whitening toothpaste to your shopping list won't break the bank. In fact, it may give you the confidence you need to earn that internship or finally ask out the cute guy or girl from your Art History class.

You don't want to make a brightening blunder. You want to pick the best over-the-counter whitening product for your life, however busy it may be. Consulting your dentist and proper oral hygiene can help as well. Just remember, laughing at your boss's jokes isn't easy. But showing off a bright smile when you do can be.