14 whitening toothpastes that are safe for every smile, recommended by dentists
Crest Pro-Health Advanced Extra White Toothpaste
Dr. Kevin B. Sands, a cosmetic dentist based in Beverly Hills, California likes that this Crest Pro-Health toothpaste works to combat plaque, gingivitis and sensitivity while also whitening teeth through the use of hydrated silica, a mild abrasive that works to remove surface stains.
Sensodyne Pronamel Active Shield Whitening Toothpaste
Many of the dentists I spoke to recommend the Sensodyne brand for those who struggle with teeth sensitivity. Sands likes that in addition to gently whitening teeth, this Active Shield formulation also builds up teeth's resistance to acids, which results in stronger enamel.
Supersmile Professional Whitening Toothpaste
Cosmetic dentist and founder of Beverly Hills Dental Arts Dr. Anjali Rajpal said that the proprietary formula in this Supersmile toothpaste, which uses encapsulated calcium peroxide and minerals, helps to whiten teeth by gently dissolving stains that settle into the protein film on the tooth, all without causing excess sensitivity.
Opalescence Whitening Toothpaste
Formulated by dental professionals, this low-abrasion toothpaste effectively removes surface stains without harming enamel, according to Dr. Erin Fraundorf, orthodontist and founder of Boca Orthodontic and Whitening Studio. She added that it's a great toothpaste for daily use and is safe for most patients, even after professional whitening treatments.
Boka Nano Hydroxyapatite Whitening Toothpaste
For those looking for a clean, holistic and enamel-safe whitening option, Fraundorf likes this fluoride-free toothpaste from Boka, which she said 'uses nano-hydroxyapatite to remineralize enamel and reduce sensitivity, all while gently lifting surface stains.'
Crest 3D White Brilliance Toothpaste
Both Fraundorf and cosmetic dentist Dr. Michael J. Wei like this high-performing toothpaste from Crest's 3D White line. Made with fluoride for cavity protection, this toothpaste delivers fast and visible whitening results, plus a fresh and clean overall mouthfeel.
Colgate Optic White Renewal Teeth-Whitening Toothpaste, High Impact White
Formulated with 5% hydrogen peroxide to whiten teeth, this fluoride Colgate toothpaste is safe to use daily for removing stains and preventing cavities.
Toms of Maine Natural Whitening Toothpaste With Fluoride
Rajpal recommends this Toms of Maine Toothpaste, which is made of naturally derived ingredients and boosted with fluoride for anticavity protection. If you're looking for a formula that gently whitens teeth (this one uses silica) and is free from artificial additives, this is a safe bet.
Sensodyne Extra Whitening Toothpaste
For an extra whitening boost, Fraundorf likes this Sensodyne option, which contains potassium nitrate to help desensitize teeth. Perfect for those who might already have sensitive teeth, this toothpaste will gently buff away stains while also helping to maintain healthy enamel.
Colgate Optic White Pro Series Toothpaste
Made with hydrogen peroxide to help remove deep stains, this Colgate toothpaste can create noticeable results in just a few days, according to Wei. Bonus: It has a fresh cool mint flavor for that clean-teeth feeling.
Moon Beauty Anticavity Whitening Toothpaste
This American Dental Association-accepted toothpaste is made with fluoride for anticavity protection and mica to polish teeth and softly remove stains. It's also made without sodium lauryl sulfate and instead uses coconut-based surfactants for a gentle, low-foam brushing experience that reduces gum irritation and enamel erosion.
Crest 3D White Deep Stain Remover
Made to deliver whiter looking teeth in just one day, this Crest toothpaste is safe to use every day and is formulated with extra strength fluoride to remineralize enamel and protect against sensitivity. This toothpaste also has an innovative pump dispenser, designed to give you the perfect amount of product each time you brush (and so you don't waste any toothpaste).
Gurunanda Whitening Toothpaste
This fluoride-free toothpaste features hydroxyapatite and neem oil, which strengthens enamel and combats plaque. Other natural ingredients like jasmine, clove and cardamom oils help to whiten teeth and freshen breath, Rajpal said.
Hello Vitamin C Whitening Toothpaste With Fluoride
This hello toothpaste uses vitamin C as an alternative to peroxide to deliver a whiter smile. Formulated with fluoride and without dyes or artificial sweeteners and flavors, this peppermint toothpaste is perfectly suited for daily use. Whitening toothpastes are formulated slightly differently from regular toothpastes and aim to make teeth appear whiter by targeting surface stains. While both whitening and regular toothpastes clean teeth and help prevent cavities, whitening versions typically contain abrasives, like hydrated silica, to scrub away surface stains, chemical agents like hydrogen peroxide to break down stains over time or optical brighteners like blue covarine that help instantly give the illusion of whiter teeth. 'They are best for maintaining an already whitened smile or gradually improving mild discoloration over time,' said Fraundorf.
When shopping for a whitening toothpaste, there are some ingredients to avoid. Fraundorf said to steer clear of formulations made with large or gritty abrasive particles since these can erode enamel and lead to long-term sensitivity as well as toothpastes made with charcoal because it's extremely abrasive and can damage enamel and gums over time. Charcoal also lacks any strong clinical backing for helping improve oral health, according to Fraundorf. Another potentially troublesome ingredient is sodium lauryl sulfate, which is a foaming agent used in many oral wellness and beauty products. Fraundorf said that sodium lauryl sulfate can irritate sensitive mouths and may contribute to the development of canker sores. Rajpal added that those with braces should take caution when using whitening toothpastes since the toothpaste cannot reach behind the brackets and may create an uneven whitening effect.
In addition to using a whitening toothpaste, Rajpal said that drinking water throughout the day to remove debris and limiting your consumption of beverages like coffee, tea, red wine and soda can help teeth stay brighter and reduce staining. You should also maintain a consistent oral health routine complete with twice-daily brushing, daily flossing and attending regular dental cleanings to remove hardened tartar and other pesky surface stains.
The following FAQs have been answered by dental experts Dr. Erin Fraundorf, Dr. Anjali Rajpal and Dr. Kevin B. Sands.
What is the difference between whitening toothpaste and regular toothpaste?
What is the difference between whitening toothpaste and regular toothpaste?
Unlike regular toothpastes, whitening toothpastes are formulated with agents that work to brighten teeth, according to Sands. He added that common whitening ingredients, like hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide, work to break down any discoloration present in your teeth, which in turn results in your teeth appearing whiter over time. Though, Sands said to avoid whitening products formulated with chlorine dioxide as it's known to be very harsh on teeth.
Is whitening toothpaste safe to use?
Is whitening toothpaste safe to use?
Sands said that whitening toothpaste is generally safe for everyone to use since the concentration of active ingredients is low, though he added that you should always use whitening toothpastes as directed for optimal results and to help prevent teeth sensitivity.
While whitening toothpastes are generally safe, it may not be the best choice for everyone, according to Fraudorf. If you already have tooth sensitivity, enamel erosion or gum recession, Fraundorf recommends consulting a dentist before adding a whitening toothpaste to your routine. 'Many formulas rely on abrasive particles or low levels of peroxide to help remove surface stains, but these can aggravate sensitivity by wearing down enamel or irritating exposed dentin and gums,' said Fraundorf.
If you experience sensitivity or notice gum recession, enamel wear or changes in the surface of the teeth after using a whitening toothpaste, you should switch back to using a gentle, non-whitening formula. 'Long-term use of highly abrasive whitening toothpastes can gradually wear down enamel and contribute to gum recession, so it's important to pay attention to how your teeth respond,' said Fraundorf. 'When in doubt, your dentist can help you determine a safe routine or suggest alternative products that effectively balance whitening with enamel protection.'
How often should you use whitening toothpaste?
How often should you use whitening toothpaste?
Sands recommends using whitening toothpastes as directed, which is generally once or twice a day. Both Sands and Fraundorf said that those with sensitive teeth can alternate between a whitening toothpaste and a normal toothpaste and use the whitening toothpaste once a day to get the stain-lifting benefits without over-abrading your enamel or gums. If you notice any increased sensitivity or enamel erosion, Sands recommends you stop using whitening toothpastes immediately.
For this article, we consulted the following dentists to gain their professional insights.
Dr. Erin Fraundorf, orthodontist and founder of Boca Orthodontic and Whitening Studio in St. Louis, Missouri
Dr. Anjali Rajpal, cosmetic dentist and founder of Beverly Hills Dental Arts
Dr. Kevin B. Sands, cosmetic dentist based in Beverly Hills, California
Dr. Michael J. Wei, cosmetic dentist and founder of Manhattan Cosmetic in New York City
CNN Underscored has a team of writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when relevant to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this story, associate editor Jillian Tracy consulted four dentists on the best whitening toothpastes you can add to your oral health routine.
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