These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (2024)

These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (1)

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We updated this article in June 2023 to add more information about each featured product, based on extensive research done by our team.

If your teeth are looking a little closer to yellow than pearl, it’s time to consider adding the best whitening toothpaste to your dental hygiene routine. After all, when it comes to teeth whitening products that actually work, these specially formulated kinds of toothpaste are some of the most tried and true options on the market.

“A whitening toothpaste is formulated with agents like peroxide or carbamide peroxide, to remove physical surface stains and sort of open up the enamel matrix of the tooth,” says Matthew Messina D.D.S., clinic director of Ohio State Upper Arlington Dentistry and spokesperson for the American Dental Association (ADA).

Meet the experts: Matthew Messina D.D.S., clinic director of Ohio State Upper Arlington Dentistry, Emanuel Layliev D.D.S., director of the New York Center for Cosmetic Dentistry, and Wesam Shafee D.M.D., aesthetic dentist.

“Over time, colors and stains from food and beverages build up in the enamel, so whitening toothpaste work to lift away stains without causing any damage to the structure of the tooth,” Messina explains. But, whitening toothpaste generally contains agents that are harsher on the teeth, notes Emanuel Layliev D.D.S., director of the New York Center for Cosmetic Dentistry, which can make them not great for those with sensitive teeth. So, when shopping for whitening toothpaste, it’s best to check for a safety seal and consult your dentist.

Our top picks

It’s time to find the best one for you! Ahead, the best whitening toothpaste that will help you get a whiter, brighter smile in no time. We’re even sharing options for sensitive teeth, fluoride-free, and gluten-free.

1

BEST OVERALL whitening toothpaste

Colgate Optic White Renewal Toothpaste

These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (8)

These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (9)

Pros
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (10)Uses hydrogen peroxide
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (11)Enamel-safe
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (12)Affordable
Cons
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (13)Some users report tooth sensitivity

“This is a great fluoride-containing whitening paste with 3% hydrogen peroxide, which works to remove extrinsic and intrinsic stains,” says Layliev. The formula works to remove years of stains from coffee and wine, plus it protects against cavities by strengthening the enamel, according to the brand.

Volume3 oz.
FlavorMint
Key ingredientHydrogen peroxide

2

BEST whitening toothpaste FOR SENSITIVE TEETH

Sensodyne Repair and Protect Whitening Toothpaste

These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (14)

Pros
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (15)Over 30,000 Ratings on Amazon
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (16)Great for sensitive teeth
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (17)Protects teeth in addition to whitens
Cons
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (18)Some users disliked texture

A brand that received the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of acceptance, it comes as little surprise that this toothpaste is a must for those with sensitive teeth. And, with over 33,000 reviews and nearly five stars, Amazon shoppers are backing it as well. It’s free of artificial colors, per the brand, and works to repair and protect teeth with fluoride.

Size3.4 oz.
FlavorMint
Key ingredientFlouride

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Pros
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (21)Nourishes with coconut oil
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (22)Effectively cleans teeth
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (23)Uses a calcium mineral blend
Cons
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (24)Some users report mouth not feeling super fresh
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (25)Pricey

With a 4.7-star rating and hundreds of rave reviews, we’d be remiss if we didn’t introduce you to this toothpaste. It’s formulated with a calcium mineral blend that naturally whitens the teeth. Customers love its flavor and scent thanks to its farm-grown, peppermint, and tea tree oil which also work to tame bad breath.

Size4.7 oz.
FlavorMint
Key ingredientFluoride

4

Best whitening toothpaste That Protects Against Cavities

Colgate Optic White Advanced Whitening Toothpaste

These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (26)

These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (27)

Pros
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (28)Effectively freshens breath
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (29)Enamel-safe
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (30)Uses hydrogen peroxide
Cons
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (31)Some users report packaging issues

“This is one of my at-home favorites,” says Wesam Shafee D.M.D., aesthetic dentist and founder of Smile Care Dental Group in Paramus, NJ. The ingredients include 2% hydrogen peroxide and fluoride to protect against cavities. Its formula also works to deeply whiten up to four shades lighter, according to the brand.

Size3.2 oz.
FlavorMint
Key ingredientHydrogen peroxide

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5

Best gentle whitening toothpaste

Supersmile Professional Teeth Whitening Toothpaste

These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (32)

Pros
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (33)Gentle formula
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (34)Effectively cleans and freshens breath
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (35)Five-star rating
Cons
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (36)Pricey

“This toothpaste is formulated with peroxide and also contains fluoride, which is great for upkeep,” says Layliev. It also has 2,300 five star ratings, making it a customer favorite on Amazon. The formula includes no harsh abrasives, making it easier to achieve a healthier enamel and whiter smile.

Size4.2 oz.
FlavorMint
Key ingredientCalprox and fluoride

6

best whitening toothpaste for gum health

Crest Pro-Health Whitening Gel Toothpaste

These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (37)

Pros
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (38)Effectively freshens breath
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (39)Editor favorite
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (40)Great flavor
Cons
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (41)Some users disliked the thick consistency

With a 4.7-star rating and hundreds of rave reviews, we couldn’t leave this toothpaste off our list. It’s formulated with fluoride and helps protect against plaque, gingivitis, sensitivity, and cavities. Customers love its flavor and scent thanks to its mint flavor which also works to tame bad breath.

Size4.6 oz.
FlavorMint
Key ingredientFluoride

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7

BEST Flavor Whitening Toothpaste

Burt’s Bees Purely White Toothpaste

These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (42)

These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (43)

Pros
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (44)Effectively freshens breath
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (45)Gentle formula
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (46)Helps repair enamel
Cons
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (47)Some users dislike runny consistency

Looking for a gentle formula that will show actual results? Look no further than this pick. Formulated with peppermint and essential oils, this toothpaste works to naturally whiten the teeth, while repairing the enamel and freshening the breath.

Size4.7 oz.
FlavorPeppermint
Key ingredientEssential oils

8

best whitening toothpaste for cavity protection

Opalescence Whitening Toothpaste

These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (48)

These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (49)

Pros
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (50)Gluten-free
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (51)Great for sensitive teeth
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (52)Helps fight against cavities and tooth decay
Cons
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (53)Pricey

“This gentle, whitening toothpaste doesn’t just remove stains—it also helps in the fight against cavities and tooth decay,” said Victoria Veytsman, D.D.S, of Cosmetic Dental Studios in New York City, in a previous interview with Prevention. If you have temperamental teeth, there’s a special version of the toothpaste that contains potassium nitrate for sensitivity relief.

Size4.7 oz.
FlavorMint
Key ingredientSilica

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9

best fluoride-free whitening toothpaste

Dentisse Natural Reflection Whitening Toothpaste

These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (54)

Pros
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (55)Gentle formula
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (56)Kaolin and bentonite clay
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (57)Anti-microbial ingredient
Cons
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (58)Pricey

“This is an organic paste with kaolin clay and bentonite clay that work as abrasive ingredients, which aren’t too harsh, and xylitol as an anti-microbial,” says Layliev. “It’s a brand I admire greatly for stain removal without over-abrasion.”

Size5.3 oz.
FlavorMint
Key ingredientKaolin and bentonite Clays

10

best whitening toothpaste with baking soda

JĀSÖN Powersmile Whitening Toothpaste

These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (59)

Pros
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (60)Gentle formula
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (61)Gluten-free
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (62)Uses baking soda
Cons
  • These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (63)Some users dislike the taste

If you prefer whitening toothpaste, make sure it doesn’t contain any harsh abrasives or irritating chemicals. “Otherwise, you lose healthy enamel, which can make your teeth yellower and possibly more sensitive in the long run,” said Hugh Flax, D.D.S, of Flax Dental in Atlanta, in a previous interview with Prevention. This toothpaste contains gentle ingredients like bamboo powder and baking soda to prevent tartar buildup while whitening and brightening your teeth.

Size6 oz.
FlavorPeppermint
Key ingredientBaking soda

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How to choose the best whitening toothpaste

These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (64)

When it comes to picking the best toothpaste, there are a few things to keep in mind. Since whitening toothpaste generally contains agents that are harsher on the teeth, it’s best to check with your dentist first to find a formula that’s right for you. “If you have sensitive teeth, choose an alternative paste that doesn’t contain tartar control, which could be over-abrasive,” advises Layliev.

When shopping for whitening toothpaste, it’s best to check for a safety seal. “​​I always suggest checking for the ADA seal of acceptance on oral health care products, especially with toothpaste,” says Messina. “The seal indicates that the product has been independently tested and shown to be safe and effective when used as directed.”

Is there a toothpaste that really whitens teeth?

These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (65)

In short, yes. Ingredients like peroxide or carbamide peroxide remove physical surface stains and sort of open up the enamel matrix of the tooth, as Messina noted above. So look for these type of abrasive ingredients when searching for a whitening toothpaste for your best bet at a brighter smile.

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How can you get rid of yellow teeth?

These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (66)

You can get rid of the yellow tinge on your teeth by improving your overall oral hygiene while also incorporating special whitening products, like toothpastes and teeth whitening pens. Inconsistent brushing and flossing can contribute to increased plaque on your teeth, causing a yellow appearance from bacteria, Katia Friedman, D.D.S., of the Friedman Dental Group previously explained in conversation about yellow teeth mistakes. Avoiding certain drinks like coffee can also help bolster enamel to avoid stains. Thankfully, establishing a good home-care regimen along with regular dental cleanings can help make teeth whiter and healthier.

How can I make my teeth white fast?

These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (67)

To whiten your teeth as quickly as possible, try adding a dentist-approved whitening toothpaste formulated with peroxide to a comprehensive dental hygiene routine that includes regular flossing and mouthwash use. Or, opt for other teeth-whitening products like strips or gels.

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How we chose the best whitening toothpaste

These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (68)

We consulted Matthew Messina D.D.S., clinic director of Ohio State Upper Arlington Dentistry and spokesperson for the American Dental Association (ADA); Emanuel Layliev D.D.S., director of the New York Center for Cosmetic Dentistry; Wesam Shafee D.M.D., aesthetic dentist and founder of Smile Care Dental Group in Paramus, NJ, as well as combed through hundreds of customer reviews to find the best whitening toothpaste.

Why trust us

These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (69)

For more than 70 years, Prevention has been a leading provider of trustworthy health information, empowering readers with practical strategies to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our editors interview medical experts to help guide our health-focused product selections. Prevention also examines hundreds of reviews—and often conducts personal testing done by our staff—to help you make informed decisions.

These Dentist-Approved Whitening Toothpastes Will Give You Your Brightest Smile Yet (2024)
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