8 Best Teeth-Whitening Toothpastes, According to Dentists

Plus, how to brush to avoid sensitivity.

April 17, 2024

Best teeth whitening toothpastes featuring a collage of six products

Perhaps you’ve noticed your smile is looking a little dull after indulging in one too many glasses of red wine. The best teeth-whitening toothpastes can help amp up the sparkle without going all in on professional whitening treatments or a full-blown arsenal of teeth-whitening products.

First off, how do teeth get stained in the first place? “All teeth are made out of tubes—like pores,” Alice Hoang, DMD, founder of Brooklyn Mint, a dental practice in New York City, previously told Glamour. When you eat or drink something richly pigmented—red wine, turmeric, tomato sauce, coffee—those pigments can penetrate the porous structure of enamel, creating that stained or dingy appearance.

The best whitening toothpastes work by using one of two primary whitening methods: chemical bleaching and physical abrasion.

The first method involves peroxide. “Peroxide acts as a bleaching agent to change the color of your teeth,” says Lauren Becker, DDS, a dentist certified in biomimetic dentistry in NYC. “If a toothpaste claims to whiten, it should contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide.” Both chemicals “react with the molecules causing stains on the teeth,” Kevin Sands, DMD, a board-certified cosmetic dentist based in Beverly Hills, previously told Glamour. “This reaction helps break down the stains into smaller, less visible particles, leading to a brighter and whiter appearance of the teeth.”

The second way toothpastes can whiten is through physical abrasion, or exfoliation, of the enamel. These formulas often contain ingredients like baking soda or charcoal, which “remove stains by physically scraping them off the surface of the tooth,” Dr. Becker says.

Experts caution that both whitening methods can damage teeth if you overdo it. Overexposure to peroxide can cause sensitivity and damage gums, and abrasion can damage enamel. (Avoid charcoal toothpastes if you can, our experts told us—despite being a popular ingredient in whitening toothpastes, charcoal has “no proven whitening effect and can remove enamel,” Dr. Becker says.)

Other ingredients in toothpaste can also support whitening without causing sensitivity or risking enamel damage. “If you’re finding your teeth to be more sensitive, look for formulas that have stannous fluoride or a hydroxyapatite,” says Dr. Becker.

To determine whether a whitening toothpaste will actually work, “it’s best to look at the concentrations of the peroxide in the teeth-whitening product,” says Daniel Rubinshtein, DDS, a celebrity cosmetic dentist in NYC. Higher concentrations—up to 10% carbamide peroxide and 3.5% hydrogen peroxide—will generally be more effective, but lower concentrations are better for sensitive teeth, he says. “The best way is to visit your dentist and let them create a specialized dental game plan for your teeth-whitening experience so you can get the best results with the least discomfort,” he says.

The best teeth-whitening toothpastes, at a glance:

Your teeth-whitening questions, answered:

How effective are whitening toothpastes?
How often should I use whitening toothpaste?
What if I have sensitive teeth?

Below are expert-approved teeth-whitening toothpastes from dentists who use them and recommend them to their patients.

All products featured on Glamour are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Crest 3D White Brilliance 2 Step Toothpaste
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Crest 3D White Brilliance 2 Step Toothpaste
~~$15~~ $13
Amazon
“This is my favorite over-the-counter whitening product because it gives patients noticeable results in under a week’s time and won’t break the bank,” Dr. Becker previously told Glamour. White strips can be bulky, annoying, and require consistency and time, while all this requires is the two minutes (the recommended time you should already be brushing your teeth), she says. The two-step formula contains a cleanser to help remove plaque and prevent whitening-induced sensitivity thanks to the inclusion of stannous fluoride, an ingredient that helps strengthen enamel, prevent plaque, and relieve sensitivity pain. After brushing with step one, step two helps whiten teeth with a peroxide-based whitening gel.
Type of whitening agent: Hydrogen peroxide
Pros: Helps prevent sensitivity
Cons: The two-step process may be annoying.
Save when you shop for the best teeth-whitening toothpastes with these Amazon promo codes.
Colgate Optic White Toothpaste
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Colgate Optic White Toothpaste
$12
Amazon
If you’re concerned about the potential damage to tooth enamel, Dr. Hoang recommends Colgate Optic White Toothpaste. It’s effective (the formula contains 5% hydrogen peroxide, the highest concentration available in an over-the-counter toothpaste) and gentle. “It’s one of the least abrasive options, so it’s gentler on enamel and less likely to exacerbate tooth recession and sensitivity,” she previously told Glamour.
“I’ve been using this formula for years and am consistently impressed by how white it keeps my teeth,” says Glamour contributor Macaela MacKenzie. “I had a professional whitening treatment done years ago to address deeper stains and since then have mostly kept up the results by brushing daily with this baby—even my dentist is impressed. The flavor isn’t too minty or chalky like other toothpastes I’ve used over the years, and the stand-up tube is super convenient.”
Type of whitening agent: Hydrogen peroxide
Pros: Affordable; safe for enamel
Cons: Won’t address deeper stains
Save when you shop for the best teeth-whitening toothpastes with these Amazon promo codes.

RiseWell Mineral Toothpaste
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RiseWell Mineral Toothpaste
$18
Amazon
In addition to helping support overall oral health, “mineral toothpaste is natural and great for those with sensitive teeth,” says Dr. Rubinshtein. This particular formula uses hydroxyapatite, an inorganic mineral that helps to rebuild (or “remineralize”) tooth enamel. It’s an especially compelling ingredient for whitening toothpastes. Research shows hydroxyapatite itself has whitening properties, and as an alternative to fluoride toothpaste, it helps prevent cavities and reduces sensitivity.
Type of whitening agent: Hydroxyapatite, silica, calcium carbonate
Pros: Strengthens enamel; reduces sensitivity
Cons: Pricey
Save when you shop for the best teeth-whitening toothpastes with these Amazon promo codes.
Sensodyne Pronamel Gentle Teeth Whitening Toothpaste
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Sensodyne Pronamel Gentle Teeth Whitening Toothpaste
$17
Amazon
If you’re interested in gentle whitening but already dealing with some tooth sensitivity, Dr. Hoang recommends trying Sensodyne Pronamel Gentle Teeth Whitening Toothpaste. It’s the OG of toothpastes for those with sensitive teeth because it can help remove stains from the tooth’s surface without causing sensitivity pain. The key ingredient is sodium fluoride—while it doesn’t directly whiten, fluoride toothpaste does help strengthen enamel and prevent sensitivity caused by some whitening methods. To give it that extra whitening benefit, this formula contains silica, a very gentle abrasive ingredient.
Type of whitening agent: Silica
Pros: Convenient packaging; affordable
Cons: Doesn’t get foamy
Save when you shop for the best teeth-whitening toothpastes with these Amazon promo codes.

Oxyfresh Pro Formula Fresh Mint Toothpaste
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Oxyfresh Pro Formula Fresh Mint Toothpaste
$13
Amazon
For a bleach-free whitening toothpaste that won’t erode enamel, Dr. Rubinshtein recommends Oxyfresh Dental Pro Formula. “It gently polishes with calcium carbonate and is another great natural toothpaste option for sensitive teeth and gums,” he says. Because it’s so gentle, “it’s great for cosmetic work, such as veneers,” he adds. The formula is pH-balanced and dye-free, and leaves you with a refreshing aftertaste thanks to peppermint essential oil.
Type of whitening agent: Calcium carbonate
Pros: Gentle enough for veneers
Cons: Pricey
Save when you shop for the best teeth whitening toothpastes with these Amazon promo codes.
Parodontax Active Gum Repair Whitening Toothpaste
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Parodontax Active Gum Repair Whitening Toothpaste
~~$17~~ $16
Amazon
Teeth-whitening products can be scary if you have sensitive gums. “Hydrogen peroxide is harsh on the gums,” says Dr. Hoang. For most people, the relatively low percentage of peroxide found in whitening toothpastes won’t cause issues, but if you’re dealing with gum recession, even small amounts may cause pain and discomfort, she says. For patients like this, Dr. Rubinshtein recommends Parodontax Active Gum Repair Whitening Toothpaste. Its primary job is to help “keep the seal tight between gums and teeth” by targeting damaging plaque bacteria at the gumline, he says, but the anticavity toothpaste will also gently whiten with stannous fluoride and help remineralize weakened enamel.
Type of whitening agent: Stannous fluoride
Pros: Helps protect gums; protects against sensitivity
Cons: Reviewers note the taste isn’t great.
Save when you shop for the best teeth whitening toothpastes with these Amazon promo codes.

Crest Pro-Health Advanced Antibacterial Protection Toothpaste
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Crest Pro-Health Advanced Antibacterial Protection Toothpaste
$15
Amazon
Another gentle peroxide-free alternative for your whitening routine is Crest Pro Health Advanced Antibacterial Protection Toothpaste. “It’s ADA approved and offers ingredients that help to whiten but won’t break down your teeth,” says Dr. Becker. Again, think of this formula as support for your oral care routine that will help to keep your teeth white (after using a more potent at-home treatment or your dentist) rather than create a dramatic change in the shade of your teeth on its own. Stannous fluoride can subtly whiten while also remineralizing teeth to make them less susceptible to stains and sensitivity.
Type of whitening agent: Stannous fluoride
Pros: Anticavity; good for sensitive teeth
Cons: Won’t deliver dramatic results
Save when you shop for the best teeth-whitening toothpastes with these Amazon promo codes.
Rembrandt Intense Stain Whitening Toothpaste
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Rembrandt Intense Stain Whitening Toothpaste
$11
Amazon
For more dramatic peroxide-free results, Dr. Becker likes Rembrant Intense Stain Whitening Toothpaste. Hydrated silica helps to gently polish away surface stains and fluoride helps to whiten and protect teeth. Becker particularly likes this formula as it has a neutral pH, which is better for enamel than more acidic versions.
Type of whitening agent: Silica, fluoride
Pros: Reviewers note the flavor and texture are both mild.
Cons: Won’t deliver results as dramatic as peroxide-based toothpastes
Save when you shop for the best teeth whitening toothpastes with these Amazon promo codes.

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How effective are whitening toothpastes?
Whitening toothpastes can help address surface stains, but they aren’t potent enough to address deeper yellowing or graying of the teeth, says Dr. Rubinshtein.
If you’re looking for dramatic results, whitening toothpastes are best used in tandem with professional in-office whitening treatments performed by your dentist or as a way to extend the effects of at-home teeth-whitening kits or whitening strips, which contain higher concentrations of peroxide. To maintain the effects of more powerful whitening treatments, make sure you have a consistent dental hygiene routine that includes floss and mouthwash to protect your pearly whites.
“I like to tell my patients that sometimes it’s not what you’re using; it’s how/when you’re using it,” says Dr. Hoang. “Maintaining a good routine for consistent brushing after you eat foods or drinks with lots of color, it helps avoid staining, therefore reducing the desire to always whiten.”
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How often should I use whitening toothpaste?
“Generally, it's safe to use whitening toothpastes twice daily as part of your regular oral hygiene routine,” Dr. Sands previously told Glamour. Whitening toothpastes approved by the American Dental Association are all safe for daily use. (For a brighter and healthier smile, Dr. Rubinshtein recommends also using a water flosser—he likes the Quip Rechargeable Cordless Water Flosser.)
One of the risks of any at-home whitening treatment is overdoing it. “There are people who overwhiten their teeth, which is called ‘bleachorexia,’” Dr. Rubinshtein says. “It can cause permanent teeth sensitivity, gum damage, and turn your teeth gray.” Exercise caution even when using “natural” whitening toothpastes. “Some of the natural toothpastes include less harsh ingredients, but I’d still avoid charcoal-based toothpastes,” adds Dr. Hoang. “This strips the enamel and is best to avoid.”

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What if I have sensitive teeth?
If your teeth are sensitive or if you’re experiencing gum recession, you may want to skip the whitening toothpaste, according to the dentists we spoke with, since both peroxide and abrasive whiteners can increase sensitivity. If you’re concerned about this, talk to your dentist before trying anything new and stop using at-home whitening products if your teeth start to feel painful. “If your teeth start to feel sensitive with cold water, breathing in air, eating ice cream, or even brushing your teeth, those are indications that the teeth whitening is exacerbating your teeth sensitivity,” says Dr. Rubinshtein.