The 8 Best Whitening Toothpastes for a Brighter Smile

Tooth discoloration can be caused by a range of factors. Per Cleveland Clinic, some of the most common culprits include consuming wine, tea, and coffee and smoking or chewing tobacco. Tooth staining can also be a result of factors like genetics, using certain medications, or having poor dental hygiene (translation: don’t forget to brush or floss consistently).

“It’s 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 aren’t as potent as prescription gels or in-office treatments, especially when it comes to removing deep stains or lightening the natural color of the 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 increasingly popular in recent years as a natural substitute for traditional whitening toothpaste. However, there isn’t enough research to confirm the efficacy of charcoal as a whitening agent. It’s important to consult your dentist before using charcoal toothpaste, especially if you have any dental issues or are undergoing any 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. Still, it’s important to be aware that toothpastes with higher concentrations of bleaching agents can cause more tooth sensitivity.” And while typically milder, abrasives such as silica or baking soda can also sensitize nerves “if the concentration is too high or if the toothpaste is used too frequently,” he says. Similarly, “citric acid can erode the 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, Dr. El Chami notes. And remember, “it’s always best to consult with your dentist before starting any whitening regimen,” 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 to brighten your teeth, they can also cause tooth sensitivity and abrasion if overused,” he warns.

“The amount of time it takes to see change from using a whitening toothpaste can fluctuate depending on the specific product you are using, 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 is the co-founder and chief dental officer of dntl bar in New York City.

Sam Peters is a seasoned commerce 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 range of top-rated whitening toothpastes on the market, evaluating each on their ingredients offered and customer feedback.