Who doesn’t dream of a dazzling, white smile? In today’s world, teeth whitening has surged in popularity, becoming a key aspect of personal beauty and confidence. Fortunately, achieving a brighter smile has never been easier, thanks to advancements in at-home whitening solutions. You can now achieve noticeable results simply by incorporating a whitening toothpaste into your daily oral hygiene routine – brushing just twice a day can make a difference. Dr. Marina Gonchar, a respected board-certified orthodontist, explains that whitening toothpastes work through two primary mechanisms: physically removing surface stains with abrasives like silica or charcoal, or chemically bleaching teeth using agents such as hydrogen peroxide. Choosing the ideal whitening toothpaste involves considering your individual oral health, personal preferences, and desired level of whitening.
To simplify your search and ensure you choose the most effective product, we consulted with leading dental experts and rigorously tested 16 of the top whitening toothpastes over a comprehensive four-week period. Our evaluation focused on three critical factors: efficacy (how effectively each toothpaste whitens teeth), comfort (especially crucial for those with sensitivity), and taste. To objectively measure whitening progress, we employed the VITA Bleachguide 3D-Master, a professional shade guide recognized by the American Dental Association (ADA), which includes 29 distinct shade levels. Embark on your journey to a more radiant, whiter smile by exploring our meticulously curated list of the best whitening toothpastes available for purchase online.
Our Top Picks for Best Rated Teeth Whitening Toothpastes
- Best Overall: Sensodyne Pronamel Gentle Whitening Toothpaste
- Fastest Results: Opalescence Whitening Toothpaste for Sensitive Teeth
- Best Without Bleach: Tom’s of Maine Simply White Toothpaste Gel
- Best for Gum Health: Crest Pro-Health Advanced Gum Restore Whitening Toothpaste
- Best With Hydrogen Peroxide: Colgate Optic White Advanced Teeth Whitening Toothpaste
- Best With Baking Soda: Colgate Baking Soda and Peroxide Whitening Bubbles Toothpaste
- Best for Sensitive Teeth: Crest Gum and Sensitivity Gentle Whitening Toothpaste
- Best for Maintaining Whitening: Sensodyne Extra Whitening Toothpaste
Best Overall
Sensodyne Pronamel Gentle Whitening Toothpaste
Buy Online At: Amazon | Target | Walmart
Pros:
- Effectively removes surface stains for a whiter appearance.
- Formulated to prevent cavities, contributing to overall oral health.
- Helps strengthen tooth enamel, crucial for long-term dental health.
Cons:
- Features a noticeably strong taste that may not appeal to everyone.
Key Ingredients: Potassium nitrate, sodium fluoride, hydrated silica | Size: 4 oz
The Sensodyne Pronamel Gentle Whitening Toothpaste stood out as the top performer in our tests and is highly recommended by dental professionals like Dr. Carla Tornatore, a respected dentist and dental professor based in New York. This toothpaste’s unique formulation is designed to gently remove stains, actively prevent cavities, and simultaneously reduce tooth sensitivity. Dr. Tornatore emphasizes the importance of enamel protection, stating, “It’s crucial for a whitening toothpaste to be gentle on the enamel, the delicate outer layer of your teeth. This particular toothpaste goes a step further by actually strengthening the enamel, which enhances your overall dental health while also brightening your smile.” This combination of benefits makes it an exceptional choice for comprehensive oral care and teeth whitening.
During our testing, users observed a visible brightening effect on their teeth. While it didn’t deliver dramatic, permanent whitening (which is typical for toothpastes due to their brief contact time with teeth), it effectively diminished surface stains and improved overall brightness. Importantly, testers reported no instances of stinging, burning, or discomfort, highlighting its gentleness. The primary drawback noted was its potent taste. While not unpleasant, the flavor profile was described as strong, reminiscent of toothpastes used in dental offices. However, it effectively freshens breath, leaving a lasting minty sensation.
Tester RJ’s Experience: “While it didn’t drastically whiten my teeth, I did notice a subtle improvement. It’s an excellent option for individuals with sensitive teeth who are looking for a mild whitening effect without experiencing any discomfort.”
Fastest Results
Opalescence Whitening Toothpaste for Sensitive Teeth
Buy Online At: Amazon | Walmart
Pros:
- Rapidly eliminates surface stains, showing noticeable results quickly.
- Well-suited for individuals with sensitive teeth, minimizing discomfort.
- Effectively delivers a visibly whiter and brighter smile within days.
Cons:
- Whitening effect tends to plateau after the initial phase of improvement.
Key Ingredients: Sodium fluoride, potassium nitrate, hydrated silica | Size: 4.7 oz
The Opalescence Whitening Toothpaste is celebrated for its powerful stain removal capabilities while maintaining gentleness, making it a favorite among dental experts like Dr. Tornatore and Dr. Gonchar. Dr. Gonchar highlights its suitability for sensitive teeth, explaining, “This particular formula is excellent for those who have experienced sensitivity during whitening treatments. It incorporates silica, an effective abrasive for removing external stains, along with potassium nitrate, a superb desensitizing agent. Furthermore, the inclusion of sodium fluoride aids in preserving the strength of the enamel.” Dr. Tornatore concurs, noting its effectiveness in removing surface stains and maintaining tooth whiteness, particularly after professional in-office bleaching procedures.
In our testing, Opalescence toothpaste demonstrated impressive efficacy within the first few days of use, with participants noting their teeth becoming up to two shades brighter. While its rapid action is a significant advantage, it’s important to note that the whitening progress tends to stabilize after this initial improvement, suggesting it’s most effective for quick stain removal and initial brightening.
Tester Clare’s Experience: “Opalescence Toothpaste was remarkably effective right from the start, noticeably brightening my teeth within the first few days. However, the whitening effect seemed to level off after the initial improvement. While my teeth got brighter quickly, they didn’t continue to whiten further with continued use.”
Best Without Bleach
Tom’s of Maine Simply White Toothpaste Gel
Buy Online At: Amazon | Thrive Market | Tom’s of Maine
Pros:
- Utilizes silica to effectively polish teeth and remove surface stains.
- Gentle formulation suitable for sensitive teeth and gums.
- Vegan and cruelty-free, appealing to ethical consumers.
Cons:
- May have a slightly chalky texture that some users might find unusual.
Key Ingredients: Sodium fluoride, hydrated silica | Size: 4 oz
For those seeking a whitening solution free of bleach, Tom’s of Maine Simply White Toothpaste Gel is an excellent choice, endorsed by the ADA for its safety and efficacy. Its formula includes sodium fluoride, hydrated silica, and xylitol, a natural sweetener, working synergistically to promote clean, bright teeth and healthy gums. Additionally, it aligns with vegan and cruelty-free lifestyles and is formulated without artificial dyes, flavors, or preservatives, catering to health-conscious consumers.
The toothpaste features a mild mint flavor that is refreshing without being overpowering or lingering, making it ideal for those who dislike the intense, burning sensation associated with some toothpastes. Its gentle nature makes it comfortable for individuals with sensitive teeth. While whitening results are gradual rather than immediate, consistent use effectively removes stains and aids in preventing tooth decay. Although it contains mild abrasives for polishing, the texture is generally smooth, though some users might perceive a slight chalkiness.
Tester Ally’s Experience: “I wholeheartedly recommend Tom’s of Maine Simply White Toothpaste. Its subtle flavor and gentle feel in the mouth make it a pleasure to use every day. If you’re aiming for dramatically whiter teeth quickly, this might not be the most potent option, but it’s perfect for maintaining brightness and removing daily stains gently.”
Best for Gum Health
Crest Pro-Health Advanced Gum Restore Whitening Toothpaste
Buy Online At: Amazon | Target | Walmart
Pros:
- Exceptionally gentle on sensitive gums, minimizing irritation.
- Smooth texture without any gritty feel, enhancing user comfort.
- Pleasant mint flavor that refreshes without being overpowering.
Cons:
- Whitening results may be subtle and not as dramatic as some other options.
Key Ingredients: Sodium fluoride, hydrated silica | Size: 4.8 oz
Individuals with sensitive gums often hesitate to use whitening toothpastes due to concerns about irritation. However, Crest Pro-Health Advanced Gum Restore Whitening Toothpaste provides a gentle alternative, specifically designed for sensitive gums. Users appreciate its ability to leave teeth and mouth feeling clean and refreshed without causing itching or burning. The formula’s smooth texture is particularly beneficial for sensitive mouths, and it produces a mild foam when mixed with water, enhancing the feeling of cleanliness. Importantly, it is ADA-accepted and contains sodium fluoride, a key ingredient recommended by Dr. Tornatore for both whitening and protecting teeth against decay.
The toothpaste has a subtle hint of mint, ideal for those who prefer a less intense flavor. It effectively freshens breath without an overpowering taste. While the whitening results are not drastic, consistent daily use can visibly reduce surface stains caused by dark beverages and foods, contributing to a brighter smile over time.
Tester Jessica’s Experience: “Using this toothpaste was very comfortable. I have sensitive teeth and gum recession, often requiring toothpaste specifically for sensitive teeth. Although this one isn’t labeled for sensitive teeth, it didn’t cause any pain or irritation, which was a pleasant surprise.”
Best With Hydrogen Peroxide
Colgate Optic White Advanced Teeth Whitening Toothpaste
Buy Online At: Amazon | Target | Walmart
Pros:
- Hydrogen peroxide effectively whitens teeth by bleaching stains.
- Formulated to be enamel-safe, preventing damage during whitening.
- Includes desensitizing agents to minimize potential tooth sensitivity.
Cons:
- Whitening results are not immediate and require consistent use over time.
Key Ingredients: Sodium monofluorophosphate, hydrogen peroxide, silica | Size: 3.2 oz
Hydrogen peroxide is a prevalent ingredient in many whitening toothpastes due to its potent bleaching properties. Monica Biga, a registered dental hygienist, explains, “Peroxide works by penetrating the enamel pores and altering the tooth color from within, resulting in a whiter appearance.” Colgate Optic White Advanced Teeth Whitening Toothpaste, recommended by Dr. Gonchar, harnesses this power effectively. Dr. Gonchar favors it for its enamel-friendly formula, which is less abrasive than many other whitening toothpastes, reducing the risk of enamel damage. It’s also designed to minimize discomfort, incorporating desensitizing agents, making it suitable for those prone to sensitivity. However, it’s advised to use it for limited periods to avoid potential sensitivity development.
Dr. Edmond R. Hewlett, a dentist, emphasizes the importance of contact time when using peroxide-based toothpastes, recommending brushing for two minutes, twice daily for optimal results. Following this guidance, our testers observed noticeable whitening improvements after approximately two weeks of consistent use. Beyond whitening, the toothpaste offers a pleasant minty flavor and effectively combats bad breath, even after strong-flavored meals.
Tester Cecily’s Experience: “This toothpaste feels wonderfully fresh and leaves my mouth feeling cleaner for a significant time after brushing. Despite having moderately sensitive teeth, I didn’t experience any increased sensitivity to hot or cold while using it, which was a big plus.”
Best With Baking Soda
Colgate Baking Soda and Peroxide Whitening Bubbles Toothpaste
Buy Online At: Amazon | Walmart | Colgate
Pros:
- Baking soda effectively removes surface stains and polishes teeth.
- Helps prevent plaque buildup, contributing to healthier gums.
- Gentle and comfortable on teeth and gums during use.
Cons:
- May not be ideal for individuals with extremely sensitive teeth or gums.
Key Ingredients: Sodium fluoride, potassium nitrate, baking soda, peroxide, hydrated silica | Size: 6 oz
Combining the power of baking soda and peroxide, Colgate Baking Soda and Peroxide Whitening Bubbles Toothpaste is designed to lift surface stains and maintain a brighter smile. Dr. Tornatore explains baking soda’s whitening action: “Baking soda is a mild abrasive that effectively removes surface stains from teeth. Its alkaline nature and slight saltiness are particularly effective at breaking down stains from common culprits like coffee, tea, and red wine.”
Despite its stain-fighting ingredients, the toothpaste is surprisingly gentle on teeth and gums, providing a subtle minty sensation without causing burning or tingling. However, it’s worth noting that individuals with highly sensitive teeth or gums might experience some reaction due to the baking soda and peroxide.
Tester Elie’s Experience: “Over time, this toothpaste has proven to be effective in whitening my teeth. Don’t expect overnight results, but with consistent use twice a day, I’ve definitely noticed a visible improvement in whiteness over several weeks.”
Best for Sensitive Teeth
Crest Gum and Sensitivity Gentle Whitening Toothpaste
Buy Online At: Amazon | Walmart
Pros:
- Ideal for sensitive teeth as it’s formulated without peroxide, reducing sensitivity risks.
- Effectively removes surface stains, brightening the smile.
- Smooth texture without grittiness, ensuring comfortable use.
Cons:
- Whitening results may take longer to appear, potentially up to a month of consistent use.
Key Ingredients: Stannous fluoride, hydrated silica | Size: 4.1 oz
For individuals with sensitive teeth, whitening toothpastes containing peroxide can exacerbate sensitivity issues if overused, according to dental hygienist Monica Biga. She recommends Crest Gum & Sensitivity Whitening Toothpaste as a gentler alternative. This toothpaste is formulated with fluoride and silica, with silica being a known agent for removing surface stains, particularly from common staining beverages like tea, coffee, and wine.
Our testers found that this toothpaste not only avoided increasing sensitivity but also helped reduce existing sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures. The formula is pleasantly foamy, gentle, and grit-free, providing a refreshing and clean mouth feel. While whitening is gradual, testers observed their teeth becoming one shade lighter after four weeks of use. Given the common issue of sensitivity with whitening products, even this modest improvement without discomfort is considered a significant benefit. Long-term use may yield more pronounced whitening results.
Tester Hildara’s Experience: “This toothpaste was very pleasant to use. It had a smooth texture without any grittiness. There was a very mild tingling sensation, which felt more refreshing than irritating. It foamed slightly, and the foam felt finer and seemed to coat my teeth more effectively than regular toothpaste. Despite having naturally sensitive teeth, I experienced no increased sensitivity or discomfort at all. I particularly liked how clean it made my gums and the inside of my cheeks feel. It was very gentle overall.”
Best for Maintaining Whitening
Sensodyne Extra Whitening Toothpaste
Buy Online At: Amazon | Target | Walmart
Pros:
- Effectively maintains tooth whiteness after professional treatments.
- Removes surface stains gently without being harsh on enamel.
- Suitable for sensitive teeth, minimizing discomfort during whitening maintenance.
Cons:
- Noticeable whitening improvements may take time to become apparent.
Key Ingredients: Potassium nitrate, sodium fluoride, hydrated silica | Size: 4 oz
Sensodyne Extra Whitening Toothpaste is a top recommendation from dentist Dr. Rhonda Kalasho for maintaining tooth whiteness. Dr. Kalasho explains, “I recommend Sensodyne because it contains pentasodium triphosphate, an ingredient that effectively removes surface stains without being overly abrasive to the enamel. It’s ideal for maintaining a bright smile at home – simply brush two to three times daily with this toothpaste and remember to floss regularly.”
While dramatic overnight whitening isn’t realistic with any toothpaste, Sensodyne Extra Whitening plays a crucial role in preserving whiteness and counteracting the staining effects of daily consumption of dark beverages and foods. Consistent use helps sustain a brighter smile over time.
What to Consider When Buying Best Rated Teeth Whitening Toothpastes Online
- Whitening Method: Understanding how a toothpaste whitens is key. Most rely on chemical action using hydrogen peroxide to bleach teeth or abrasive action using ingredients like hydrated silica to scrub away surface stains.
- Cavity Prevention: Beyond whitening, choose toothpastes with ingredients that promote overall oral health. Fluoride is essential for preventing tooth decay, with sodium fluoride being a common and effective variant recommended by dentists like Dr. Tornatore, Dr. Gonchar, and Dr. Kalasho.
- Size and Value: Consider the toothpaste tube size, especially for regular use. Larger tubes offer better value. For travel, smaller tubes (under 3.4 ounces) are convenient, particularly for carry-on luggage.
How We Tested These Best Rated Teeth Whitening Toothpastes
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To identify the best rated teeth whitening toothpastes, we conducted a comprehensive four-week testing process. Our testers evaluated several key features:
- Effectiveness: Testers assessed each toothpaste’s whitening capability, focusing on reducing existing tooth and surface stains. They used the VITA Bleachedguide 3D-MASTER to objectively measure changes in tooth shade and brightness.
- Comfort: Comfort was a critical factor, given that whitening products can sometimes increase tooth sensitivity. Testers reported on the formula’s comfort level on their teeth and gums and noted any sensitivity issues experienced during the testing period.
- Taste: Since toothpaste is used daily, taste is important. Testers evaluated the taste, aftertaste, and any sensations like tingling or burning, to ensure a pleasant user experience.
Meet Our Experts
Our recommendations are backed by insights from leading dental professionals:
- Dr. Marina Gonchar, DMD, MS: Board-certified orthodontist at Skin to Smile in Morristown, New Jersey.
- Dr. Carla Tornatore, DDS: Pediatric dentist and Assistant Professor of Dentistry at Touro College of Dental Medicine.
- Monica Biga: Oral care expert, dental hygienist, and spokesperson for GSK.
- Dr. Edmond R. Hewlett, DDS: Board-certified dentist and Professor at UCLA School of Dentistry in California.
- Dr. Rhonda Kalasho, DDS: Doctor of Dentistry in Beverly Hills, California, and CEO of TruGlo Modern Dental.
Why Trust Byrdie
Caitlyn Martyn, Byrdie’s associate editor, is a dedicated product tester covering beauty and oral care. She conducted expert interviews and analyzed tester feedback for this article. Ally Hirschlag, Byrdie’s associate editorial director, with a background in dental health, also contributed to these recommendations.
Byrdie’s Diversity Pledge ensures inclusivity in product recommendations. We are continuously seeking to include more Black-owned and/or Black-founded brands in our content. Please contact us at [email protected] if you have suggestions.
Updated by Taylor Augustin Littlejohn
