8 Best Whitening Toothpastes for a Brighter Smile

Tooth discoloration can be caused by a number of factors. About Cleveland Clinic, some of the most common culprits include consumption of wine, tea and coffee and smoking or chewing tobacco. Tooth discoloration can also be the result of factors such as genetics, use of certain medications, or poor dental hygiene (translation: don’t forget to brush or floss consistently).

“It is important to keep in mind that the effectiveness of whitening toothpastes can be limited and they should not be used as a substitute for professional teeth whitening treatments,” says Dr. El Chami. “Over-the-counter whitening toothpastes are not as potent as prescription gels or in-office treatments, especially when it comes to removing deep stains or brightening the natural color of teeth.”

“For whiter teeth, it’s also important to maintain good oral hygiene habits and to see your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings,” he adds.

“Charcoal toothpaste contains activated charcoal, which is a fine powder made from coconut shells, bamboo or other natural materials that have been treated to increase their porosity and surface area,” explains Dr. El Chami. “These types of formulas have become more and more popular in recent years as a natural replacement for traditional whitening toothpaste. However, there is not enough research to confirm the effectiveness of charcoal as a whitening agent. It is important to consult your dentist before you use charcoal toothpaste, especially if you have dental problems or are undergoing dental treatment,” he adds.

Yes. “The most common bleaching agents are hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide,” explains Dr. El Chami. “The higher the concentration of the bleaching agent, the more effective the toothpaste will be at whitening the teeth. However, it is important to be aware that toothpastes with higher concentrations of bleaching agents can cause more tooth sensitivity.” And while typically milder, abrasives like silica or baking soda can also sensitize nerves “if the concentration is too high or if the toothpaste is used too often,” he says. Similarly, “citric acid can erode tooth enamel and cause tooth sensitivity if used in high concentrations .”

If you have sensitive teeth or gums, look for toothpastes that are specially formulated to be gentle, says Dr. El Chami notes. And remember, “it’s always best to consult with your dentist before starting a whitening treatment,” he says.

“This depends on the specific product at hand and the condition of your teeth,” says Dr. El Chami. “In general, it is recommended to use a whitening toothpaste in place of your regular toothpaste, twice a day, as part of your regular oral hygiene routine.”

“Keep in mind that while whitening toothpastes can help brighten your teeth, they can also cause tooth sensitivity and wear if overused,” he warns.

“The amount of time it takes to see changes from using a whitening toothpaste can fluctuate depending on the specific product you use, the condition of your teeth, and how often you use the toothpaste,” says Dr. El Chami. “Some people may see results within a few days of starting to use a whitening toothpaste, others may take several weeks or longer to see a noticeable difference.”

Dr. Ben El Chami is co-founder and general dentist of dntl bar in New York City.

Sam Peters is a seasoned business writer and editor with over five years of experience covering fashion, beauty and lifestyle topics. For this roundup, she consulted a dentist about his recommendations for the best whitening toothpastes, how to use them, and what to look for when shopping. She also considered a number of top-rated whitening toothpastes on the market, rating each on their offered ingredients and customer feedback.