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The 13 Best Whitening Toothpastes, According to Dentists
Pearly whites are just a few brushes away
When it comes to the best whitening toothpastes, there are plenty of options available to shop, but not all formulas are equally effective. If you're aiming for a brighter smile, regularly using one of the top tubes in your dental routine is one of the easiest ways to not only remove plaque build-up but also lingering enamel stains that may cause teeth to look dull and yellow. Plus, many expert-approved favorites from Crest, Colgate, and more, are also ideal for minimizing sensitivity and fighting tooth decay and bad breath at the same time.
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“Hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide are typically the two main whitening ingredients found in toothpaste,” cosmetic dentist Rich Lipari tells Bazaar. “Many whitening toothpastes in particular contain a variation of hydrated silica, which acts as a polishing agent to help remove extrinsic stains.” Brightening options that rely on physical buffers to reduce the appearance of stains may be too abrasive for sensitive teeth. However, popular formulations from top brands like Boka and Davids use nano-hydroxyapatite as a main ingredient instead, which combats these concerns. "A truly effective whitening toothpaste strikes a balance between stain removal and enamel protection," cosmetic dentist David Wagner adds. "Nano-hydroxyapatite is particularly buzzworthy because it helps rebuild enamel while brightening—so you won’t have to compromise your tooth health for a more brilliant smile."
Like most beauty staples, professionals say results can take up to a month to become noticeable, even with consistent brushing. If you’re ready to swap your tried-and-true toothpaste for a formula that helps your teeth sparkle, read on to find the best whitening toothpastes that professionals and beauty enthusiasts are giving gold stars.
Crest 3D White Toothpaste Advanced Luminous Mint (4-Pack)
Crest 3D Whitestrips is a cult-favorite product among beauty lovers in the know, which is just one reason the brand’s equally popular 3D White toothpaste is featured on this list of favorites. Its minty formula aims to strengthen tooth enamel while guarding against cavities and brightening your smile.
- Key ingredients: Sodium fluoride, fluoride ion
One satisfied customer writes: “Not only does this toothpaste whiten your teeth, but it leaves a refreshing light minty taste in your mouth! I love it!” —Anonymous
Colgate Optic White Pro Series Whitening Toothpaste
Pros
- Works quickly
- Expert-recommended
Cons
- Formula may be too strong for sensitive teeth
When it comes to his top whitening toothpaste of choice, Lipari often reaches for this one from Colgate to brush morning and night. “I typically recommend Colgate Optic White, since I personally think I’ve had the best results with it,” he explains. The tried-and-true formula aims to visibly whiten teeth after three days of use.
- Key ingredients: Hydrogen peroxide
One satisfied customer writes: “I love this toothpaste. It really does what it claims it will do. My teeth are so white and shiny! The only thing I don’t really care for is the taste. But it does leave my mouth feeling fresh and clean. No bad breath here! Spend the extra money and get this toothpaste. You won't regret it!” —Gena
Pros
- Great for sensitive teeth
- Features earth-friendly formula and packaging
Cons
- Some reviewers say formula does not foam
If you suffer from sensitive teeth or gums, opt for Before’s minty toothpaste. It’s made with gentle, soothing ingredients like aloe vera and refreshing mint oil, and provides a thorough clean thanks to hardworking sodium fluoride.
- Key ingredients: Sodium fluoride, aloe extract, coconut-derived cocamidopropyl betaine, menthol, spearmint, and peppermint oils
One satisfied customer writes: “Love how fresh and super minty this toothpaste is! Also makes my teeth feel super smooth. My new go-to toothpaste for sure!” —Yvonne
Pros
- Great for cavity prevention
Cons
- Some reviewers say mint flavor isn't as strong as other brands
This toothpaste's sulfate-free formula aims to remove lingering surface stains after two weeks, thanks to a combination of plant-based cleansers and naturally derived micro-polishers. The dental favorite also gently helps prevent new stains from forming and doubles as an anticavity essential.
- Key ingredients: Sodium fluoride, inactive water, sorbitol, hydrated silica, glycerin, xylitol, lauryl glucoside, natural flavor, disodium cocoyl glutamate, xanthan gum, tetrasodium pyrophosphate, benzyl alcohol, rebaudioside A, potassium hydroxide
One satisfied customer writes: "I have tried a lot of other whitening toothpastes that normally taste a bit too harsh. But the Whiten+ tastes great and is also great value for money. Have always loved the quality of Tom’s of Maine and this one is right up there with the best!" —Patrick A.
Sensodyne Clinical White Toothpaste Clinically Proven Whitening for Sensitive Teeth
Pros
- Prevents future staining
- Reduces sensitivity
Cons
- Some customers say it doesn't whiten as much as others
Sensitive teeth can be particularly challenging to whiten—especially if there aren't enamel-protecting or gentle stain-removing ingredients in the formula. "If you’re prone to twinges from hot or cold foods, choose a toothpaste specifically formulated to combat sensitivity (think nHAp or potassium nitrate), " Wagner suggests. This option from Sensodyne has potassium nitrate and is void of hydrogen peroxide which, while effective at whitening, can make teeth more sensitive.
- Key ingredients: STP, alumina, silica, potassium nitrate
One satisfied customer writes: "I have used this product for a while now, the quality is good helps to lighten my teeth as well as helps with my sensitivity when brushing." — JoLe147
Boka Refresh Mint Teeth Whitening n-Ha Toothpaste
Pros
- Peroxide-free
- Safe for sensitive teeth
Cons
- Some reviewers say flavor may not be as minty as other toothpastes
This aloe vera and green tea toothpaste also contains xylitol to fight bacteria, plus nano-hydroxyapatite (a Japanese-created fluoride alternative) to keep enamel strong. It also contains coconut oil and baking soda to help neutralize stains while keeping gums hydrated. Wagner is also partial to the brand's fluoride-free formula that leverages nHAp. "Boka’s toothpaste gently polishes away stains while helping to fortify enamel. I really enjoy the consistency and flavor profile," he notes.
- Key ingredients: Aloe vera, xylitol, green tea
One satisfied customer writes: “I absolutely love this toothpaste and have seen a difference in the whiteness of my teeth!” —Taylor
Made by Dentists Professional Ultra Whitening Toothpaste (Two-Pack)
Pros
- Formula is suitable for daily brushing
- Approved by the American Dental Association
Cons
- Must rinse off after two minutes for best results
To get your teeth their whitest, this dentist-backed toothpaste uses hydrogen peroxide and sodium fluoride to break down surface stains while brightening and strengthening enamel from within. And since you'll receive two tubes for under $20, consider its formula the gift that keeps on giving.
- Key ingredients: Hydrogen peroxide, sodium fluoride
One satisfied customer writes: "I have been using this toothpaste for about a month now. I have seen improvements such as my teeth not being as transparent and becoming whiter." —Lisa
Davids Sensitive Whitening nano-Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste
Pros
- Formula doesn't contain harsh ingredients
- Expert-recommended
Cons
- Some reviewers say whitening process may take longer than with other formulas
"A standout for those prioritizing natural ingredients, Davids uses nHAp plus mild abrasives to lighten stains, all while staying eco-friendly," Wagner notes. The toothpaste's nHAp formula also nicely helps protect tooth enamel while minimizing sensitivity overall.
- Key ingredients: Nano Hydroxyapatite (n-HA)
One satisfied customer writes: "I just started getting stains on my teeth from drinking coffee. I read I could have weak enamel on those teeth. Regular toothpastes did nothing to remove the stains. This toothpaste takes the stains away and keeps them away. Leave on teeth at least one minute after brushing. I love this toothpaste." — Debbie
Opal by Opalescence Teeth Whitening Toothpaste
Pros
- Expert-recommended
Cons
- Results typically not visible until after at least a month of use
Opal by Opalescence’s fluoride toothpaste is another of Lipari’s favorites specifically for sensitive teeth. It uses a low-abrasion silica blend to polish away surface stains, along with a combination of sodium fluoride and xylitol to minimize cavities and guard against tooth decay.
- Key ingredients: Sodium fluoride, silica, xylitol
One satisfied customer writes: “I really like this whitening toothpaste. It does a great job cleaning, leaves the mouth feeling fresh, and brightens your teeth.” —Anonymous
Cocofloss Cocoshine Whitening Toothpaste
Pros
- Great for rebuilding tooth enamel
- Ideal for sensitive teeth
Cons
- Limited flavor options
This dentist-created n-HA toothpaste formula is made from many of the same minerals as your teeth and uses baking soda and silica to gently remove surface stains. It also does double duty, since it not only aims to enhance brightness by two shades after a week of brushing but also is ideal for tooth demineralization and sensitivity reduction.
- Key ingredients: Baking soda, coconut oil, xylitol
One satisfied customer writes: "Love this toothpaste! Tastes great...only need a little bit. It makes teeth feel super clean all day long and think they are whiter already. Not to mention so many healthy ingredients." —Grandma J.
Pros
- Helps prevent cavities
- Great for plaque removal
Cons
- Results not visible until after at least six weeks of use
Arm & Hammer used its expert cleaning knowledge to create this top-rated whitening toothpaste. Baking soda works overtime as the main ingredient in its minty fresh formula, to gently lift surface stains and minimize the effect of enamel-weakening acids.
- Key ingredients: Baking soda, sodium fluoride, silica
One satisfied customer writes: “I am 63 years-old and have the whitest teeth thanks to Arm and Hammer. My dental hygienist is amazed how little she has to clean on my teeth every six months, and I am a total tea-aholic!” —Nana
RiseWell Natural Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste
Pros
- Flouride-free
- Great for sensitive teeth
Cons
- Some reviewers do not enjoy the flavor
Lipari counts this top-rated and natural whitening toothpaste from RiseWell as one of his all-time favorites. “RiseWell makes a hydroxyapatite-based toothpaste which has natural whitening properties,” he says. “Although hydroxyapatite-based toothpastes are a newer product here in the United States, there are numerous studies showing that they may be a great alternative to traditional fluoride-based toothpastes.”
- Key ingredients: Essential oils, xylitol, silica, calcium carbonate, peppermint oil, wild mint oil
One satisfied customer writes: “I started using Risewell a couple of years ago when I developed an allergy to sodium lauryl sulfate. I tried Risewell due to its lack of the ingredients and other chemicals. It works well. It tastes good. I like it! I also like the mouthwash.” —Stephanie
Hello Activated Charcoal Epic Whitening
Pros
- Whitens quickly
- Also comes in a fluoride-free option
Cons
- May be too harsh for sensitive teeth
A favorite of Los Angeles-based cosmetic dentist Jon Marashi, this paste skips traditionally used preservatives and instead uses ingredients that absorb and bind to the compounds that stain your teeth, so once you rinse, your teeth are left bright and shiny. "I love the Hello formula because it’s gentle and safe for enamel and everyday use," he says. "It’s also free of peroxide, dyes, sulfates, parabens, triclosan, preservatives, and gluten as well as artificial sweeteners and flavors. The activated charcoal whitens the teeth naturally."
- Key ingredients: Fresh mint, coconut oil, and activated charcoal
One satisfied customer writes: "I tried this because I didn't like all the additives in other toothpaste. One thing I noticed right away was how white it made my teeth. It's really strange the toothpaste is black but when you're finished and you look in the mirror your teeth are white." — PortraitArtist
Meet the experts
- Dr. Rich Lipari is a cosmetic dentist at Lipari & Mangiameli Dentistry in Chappaqua, New York.
- Dr. Jon Marashi is a Los Angeles-based cosmetic dentist.
- Dr. David Wagner DDS is a cosmetic dentist based in Los Angeles.
What are the benefits of using whitening toothpastes?
Whitening toothpastes make it easy to enhance the brightness of your smile with little to no effort, with noticeable results after about a month of use. “These options are a great way to maintain your teeth and achieve a more minor whitening result on a daily basis,” Lipari says.
How should I use one of the best whitening toothpastes?
Brushing your teeth with one of the best whitening toothpastes is no different from using regular toothpaste. Those already brightening their smile with a teeth whitening kit can still use a whitening toothpaste. However, experts advise being mindful that the more whitening products used on your teeth, the more you may increase your risk of future enamel sensitivity.
“The most common symptom or issue with whitening products, whether it be a toothpaste or strips, is tooth sensitivity,” Lipari explains. “This doesn’t necessarily mean you won’t be able to whiten your teeth again, but it does mean you should reduce the amount of whitening products you’re using on your teeth until the sensitivity subsides.” The experts add that those with sensitive teeth keep their eyes peeled for whitening toothpaste powered by the ingredient potassium nitrate, which helps reduce overall sensitivity. He also recommends opting for a formula with a range of natural or gentler ingredients like baking soda and coconut oil to remove stubborn stains without added pain or irritation.
How effective is whitening toothpaste compared to other whitening methods?
Marashi explains that whitening toothpaste is best for treating external stains on teeth caused by stains from coffee, tea, or cigarettes. "They don’t do too much in the way of absorbing into the tooth and lifting out internal stains in the same way an in-office whitening treatment using hydrogen peroxide would do," he notes. However, the expert adds that users can improve whitening by several levels with consistent toothpaste use.
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