If professionally whitening your teeth isn’t in your budget, you may want to consider at-home products. If you set foot in the oral care aisle of your local pharmacy, you will discover teeth whitening kits or whitening toothpastes. Dentist Dr. Sandip Sachar says that while these products work, it’s important to be realistic about your expectations: “It’s worth noting that while whitening toothpastes can help remove surface stains and maintain brightness, they have limitations: Most will not change the natural color of your teeth or treat deep discoloration.” »
Why we love it: Colgate Optic White Pro Series Toothpaste is one of the whitening toothpastes recommended by Dr. Fatima Khan, a dentist in Houston, Texas. Some of the reasons she recommends it include its trusted brand and 5% hydrogen peroxide whitening agent. Unlike other whitening agents that remove surface stains, hydrogen peroxide can penetrate the tooth and therefore whitens intrinsically and extrinsically.
Benefits
- Contains 5% hydrogen peroxide, which whitens intrinsically and extrinsically
Disadvantages
- Formula may be too strong or cause irritation for some
Why we love it: Sachar recommends this toothpaste for daily use and for surface stain prevention because it “uses 4% hydrogen peroxide, which is also powerful for whitening, although slightly less than Colgate Optic.” It also provides safer daily whitening for enamel, making it a better choice for long-term daily use or for people with sensitive teeth.
Benefits
- Contains low abrasion silica and hydrogen peroxide for whitening
- Contains fluoride to protect against cavities
- Designed to strengthen enamel
Disadvantages
- A little more expensive than other toothpastes at $9
- Not for very sensitive people
Why we love it: Dr. Elizabeth Himel, owner of Aspen Dental, recommends Crest Pro-Health Advanced Extra Whitening toothpaste. This toothpaste whitens using hydrated silica, a mild abrasive. Crest is also a well-known brand with many products (many of them marketed for the purpose of whitening), making it an accessible choice for many.
Benefits
- More affordable at $5
Disadvantages
- Contains SLS like many toothpastes
Why we love it: Khan recommended Sensodyne Pronamel Gentle Whitening toothpaste because of its low abrasiveness compared to other products. Sensodyne is a brand that many people with sensitive teeth may be familiar with. This particular whitening toothpaste is free of sodium lauryl sulfate, which can irritate many people’s mouths. Sachar also recommends it for people with sensitive teeth.
Benefits
- May be a better option for sensitive teeth
Disadvantages
- More expensive than other products, around $7
Why we love it: Lumineux Whitening Toothpaste is another toothpaste recommended by Khan. It contains essential oils and more “natural” ingredients like coconut oil and dead sea salt, making it a more appealing choice for some. According to Khan, it whitens with hydrated silica and has more “medium” abrasiveness.
Benefits
- Contains natural ingredients, like coconut oil and essential oils
Disadvantages
- Does not contain fluoride or hydroxyapatite, so probably not ideal for regular use
If you’re having trouble choosing a whitening toothpaste, we’ve found some expert-approved.
Panupong Piewkleng/Getty ImagesWe spoke with dentists to find out which whitening toothpastes they recommend to their patients for sensitive teeth, for everyday use and more.
What is the best whitening toothpaste in general?
We have not chosen just one whitening toothpaste, as the best option may differ depending on individual preferences and needs. Below we have listed different types of whitening toothpaste based on dentist recommendations. However, if you have any questions, it is best to consult your dentist for personalized advice.
Best whitening toothpaste of 2026
Benefits
- Contains 5% hydrogen peroxide, which whitens intrinsically and extrinsically
Disadvantages
- Formula may be too strong or cause irritation for some
Why we love it: Colgate Optic White Pro Series Toothpaste is one of the whitening toothpastes recommended by Dr. Fatima Khan, a dentist in Houston, Texas. Some of the reasons she recommends it include its trusted brand and 5% hydrogen peroxide whitening agent. Unlike other whitening agents that remove surface stains, hydrogen peroxide can penetrate the tooth and therefore whitens intrinsically and extrinsically.
Sachar also recommends this toothpaste, saying, “Colgate Optic White Pro Series is the strongest professional-level whitening toothpaste on the market and would be my choice.” Its 5% hydrogen peroxide content is the most effective whitening agent in an over-the-counter toothpaste, delivering visible results quickly. However, she recommends that patients use it carefully and alternate it periodically with a non-whitening or enamel repair toothpaste.
Who is it best for: Optic White Pro Series is ideal for anyone looking for a whitening toothpaste that contains both hydrogen peroxide and fluoride.
Who shouldn’t get it: According to Khan, one of the downsides of this toothpaste is that it contains sodium lauryl sulfate, which can cause irritation, such as canker sores. Other popular whitening toothpastes may also contain SLS, so it’s important to check the ingredients before purchasing if you are sensitive to it.
“It may not be ideal for sensitive teeth or long-term continuous use without alternating with a non-whitening toothpaste,” adds Sachar. “I recommend this one for short-term use or occasional whitening. I tell my patients to use it for short periods of time and alternate it periodically with a non-whitening or enamel repair toothpaste.”
Benefits
- Contains low abrasion silica and hydrogen peroxide for whitening
- Contains fluoride to protect against cavities
- Designed to strengthen enamel
Disadvantages
- A little more expensive than other toothpastes at $9
- Not for very sensitive people
Why we love it: Sachar recommends this toothpaste for daily use and for surface stain prevention because it “uses 4% hydrogen peroxide, which is also powerful for whitening, although slightly less than Colgate Optic.” It also provides safer daily whitening for enamel, making it a better choice for long-term daily use or for people with sensitive teeth.
Sachar likes that it contains low-abrasion silica and hydrogen peroxide for gentle but visible whitening that doesn’t strip the enamel too much. It also contains fluoride for cavity protection and other enamel-strengthening ingredients.
Who is it best for: Sachar recommends 3D White Brilliance for coffee, tea or red wine drinkers who want to maintain a vibrant smile without harsh whitening. It would also be good for people with moderate sensitivity, people looking for post-whitening maintenance after an in-office procedure, and those who want to whiten without compromising daily cavity prevention or enamel health.
Who shouldn’t get it: When asked who should avoid this toothpaste, Sachar responds: “People with severe sensitivity (e.g. exposed root surfaces, gum recession, or dentin hypersensitivity). Mild peroxide can still be irritating. » She adds that if you avoid fluoride, this toothpaste won’t be right for you either.
Benefits
- More affordable at $5
Disadvantages
- Contains SLS like many toothpastes
Why we love it: Dr. Elizabeth Himel, owner of Aspen Dental, recommends Crest Pro-Health Advanced Extra Whitening toothpaste. This toothpaste whitens using hydrated silica, a mild abrasive. Crest is also a well-known brand with many products (many of them marketed for the purpose of whitening), making it an accessible choice for many.
Who is it best for: Crest Pro-Health Advanced Extra Whitening would be suitable for anyone looking for an easy-to-find and affordable whitening toothpaste that contains hydrated silica and fluoride.
Who shouldn’t get it: This toothpaste contains SLS, so if you are sensitive to it, avoid it.
Benefits
- May be a better option for sensitive teeth
Disadvantages
- More expensive than other products, around $7
Why we love it: Khan recommended Sensodyne Pronamel Gentle Whitening toothpaste because of its low abrasiveness compared to other products. Sensodyne is a brand that many people with sensitive teeth may be familiar with. This particular whitening toothpaste is free of sodium lauryl sulfate, which can irritate many people’s mouths. Sachar also recommends it for people with sensitive teeth.
Who is it best for: Pronamel Gentle Whitening would be best suited for anyone with sensitive teeth who is looking to avoid the SLS ingredient, but still wants fluoride.
Who shouldn’t get it: This whitening toothpaste is slightly more expensive at $7, so it may not be for someone who wants the most affordable whitening toothpaste.
Benefits
- Contains natural ingredients, like coconut oil and essential oils
Disadvantages
- Does not contain fluoride or hydroxyapatite, so probably not ideal for regular use
Why we love it : Lumineux Whitening Toothpaste is another toothpaste recommended by Khan. It contains essential oils and more “natural” ingredients like coconut oil and dead sea salt, making it a more appealing choice for some. According to Khan, it whitens with hydrated silica and has more “medium” abrasiveness.
Who is it best for: This whitening toothpaste is ideal for people who want to avoid fluoride in favor of ingredients like coconut oil and essential oils. It also has a medium abrasiveness for anyone looking for something less intense than other whitening toothpastes.
Who shouldn’t get it: Since this toothpaste does not contain fluoride or hydroxyapatite to fight cavities, it would probably not be suitable for regular use, especially for anyone prone to cavities.
Benefits
- Remineralizes with nano-hydroxyapatite
Disadvantages
- Does not contain fluoride
Why we love it: This toothpaste isn’t as heavily marketed for whitening as the other products on this list, but it was highlighted by Khan because it’s a good fluoride-free option for those looking for one, and it uses nano-hydroxyapatite to remineralize teeth, which can brighten them while helping rebuild enamel.
Who is it best for: Boka Ela Mint n-Ha Toothpaste is a good option for anyone who wants a fluoride-free whitening toothpaste that uses nano-hydroxyapatite.
Who shouldn’t get it: This toothpaste is more expensive than other options at $12. It also may not be a good option for those at high risk for cavities, since fluoride is the gold standard.
Benefits
- Uses nano‑hydroxyapatite for healthier enamel
- Good for those avoiding fluoride
Disadvantages
- Not for those who want a quick change of multiple shades
- More expensive than other toothpastes at $12
Why we love it: Dr. Christopher Tolmie, DDS, MBA, of PDS Health, recommends this whitening toothpaste, saying, “Instead of peroxide, it uses nano-hydroxyapatite, the same calcium phosphate crystal your enamel is made of, to remove surface stains.” Healthier enamel means fewer bacterial highways throughout the rest of your body.
Tolmie also cites a 2021 randomized clinical trial that found that 10% hydroxyapatite protects against cavities as well as fluoride. “It buffs out stains while filling in microcracks, smoothing, whitening and reducing sensitivity,” adds Tolmie. “Expect a slight lift of 1 to 2 shades in 2 to 4 weeks, versus a jump of 3 to 8 shades in a single professional visit.”
Dr. Yenile Pinto, DDS, founder of Deering Dental, also recommends this toothpaste for stronger, healthier enamel. “It strikes a great balance between cosmetic whitening and true functional benefits,” she says.
“For me, the ideal whitening toothpaste helps remineralize enamel, balance pH, and support your oral microbiome,” says Pinto. “Nano-hydroxyapatite does just that, and by rebuilding the tooth surface, it naturally reduces transparency and helps teeth appear whiter without irritation or long-term damage. By smoothing and strengthening the outer layer, it also increases the tooth’s ability to reflect light, making your smile not only whiter, but brighter and vibrant.”
Who is it best for: This toothpaste is ideal for “people who want a clean label and are averse to fluoride, children, pregnant patients, or anyone who wants daily whitening without the risk of high sensitivity side effects,” says Tolmie.
Pinto also recommends this toothpaste for patients with mild sensitivity, early enamel erosion, or a history of cavities.
Who shouldn’t get it: Tolmie does not recommend this whitening toothpaste for heavy smokers, people with tetracycline stains, or those who want a quick change of several shades. For patients who want the latter solution, he says they will need custom trays or in-office whitening.
“I don’t recommend using whitening toothpastes or even milder toothpastes every day long term,” Pinto adds. “Most contain a mild abrasive (often hydrated silica or baking soda), which is generally safe in moderation but can wear away enamel over time with overuse.”
Comparison of the best whitening toothpastes
| Toothpaste | Superlative | Main bleaching agent | Contains sodium lauryl sulfate | Contains fluoride | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colgate Optical White Pro Series | Best whitening toothpaste with hydrogen peroxide | Hydrogen peroxide, 5% | Yes | Yes | $9 |
| Crest Pro-Health Advanced Extra Whitening Toothpaste | The most affordable whitening toothpaste | Hydrated silica | Yes | Yes | $4 |
| Sensodyne Pro-Enamel Gentle Whitening | Best whitening toothpaste for sensitive teeth | Hydrated silica | No | Yes | $7 |
| Lumineux whitening toothpaste | Best whitening toothpaste with essential oils | Hydrated silica | No | No | $7 |
| Boka Ela Mint n-Ha Toothpaste | Best natural whitening toothpaste | Hydrated silica | No | No | $12 |
| Crest 3D White Brilliance Pro Enamel Protect Toothpaste | Best Whitening Toothpaste for Daily Use | Hydrogen peroxide, 4% | Yes | Yes | $9 |
| RiseWell Mineral Toothpaste | Best natural, low-abrasive whitening toothpaste | Hydroxyapatite | No | No | $12 |
Most whitening toothpastes remove surface stains from teeth using abrasives. Although all toothpastes can be abrasive, scrubbing too much can damage your enamel, a protective outer layer that protects your teeth. Dr. Sarah Tavares, a dentist at Bentway Dental in Toronto, says whitening ingredients such as silica and calcium carbonate can be particularly abrasive. Other abrasives, such as baking soda and charcoalcan be more damaging.
Other whitening agents in some toothpastes or whitening strips contain chemical agents that whiten teeth, such as hydrogen peroxide. These may be “generally safer” for your teeth than more abrasive ingredients, but Tavares said, “They can still cause gum irritation or sensitivity if overused or used incorrectly.”
“To reduce the risk of enamel damage, limit the frequency of whitening treatments to one week at a time, with good intervals in between,” she said.
We made these selections based on recommendations from five dentists. We also considered the formula, brand reputation and range of products available to meet different needs.
Khan says you should choose a whitening toothpaste that is relatively less abrasive and less likely to damage your enamel. One way to do this is to look for the relative dentin abrasiveness (RDA) value, if the product or brand provides it.
The American Dental Association recommends using toothpaste that contains fluoride, and most whitening toothpastes on the market contain it. However, a newer ingredient called hydroxyapatite has also been shown to promote tooth health by working to “remineralize” enamel, potentially helping with appearance. People should choose toothpaste that contains fluoride or hydroxyapatite, Khan said.
“It restores mineral density and therefore makes teeth whiter and less translucent,” Khan said, referring to hydroxyapatite.
Pinto recommends that her patients use a remineralizing whitening paste once a day in the evening. “Then alternate with a non-abrasive, pH-balancing paste in the morning,” she says. “If your enamel is strong and your diet is low in acid/sugar, you can use them daily for a few months, then alternate them to avoid excessive use.” She adds that you should pair this routine with good salivary support (like xylitol, hydration, and nasal breathing) and avoid brushing your teeth immediately after consuming acidic foods or drinks when your enamel is softened and more vulnerable.
And once again, it is important not to overuse whitening toothpastes.
According to Tolmie, “Today’s pastes prioritize low-abrasion particles, safer whitening ingredients without nano‑hydroxyapatite or peroxide, as well as anti-sensitivity ingredients like potassium citrate. » While professional whitening treatments provide faster results, today’s whitening toothpastes cost less while still being gentle, strengthening enamel, and brightening your smile a shade or two in about a month.
Not necessarily. Dr. Erin Fraundorf, founder of BOCA Orthodontic and Whitening Studio, said that while teeth whitening with toothpaste can be “effective in the short term,” overuse can lead to sensitivity and damage over time. Instead of whitening toothpaste, Fraundorf recommends visiting your dentist for in-office whitening or choosing another at-home product such as Opalescence whitening strips.
“Toothpaste will not give you the instant whitening results of whitening strips or in-office whitening because these contain a higher concentration of hydrogen peroxide and the duration of the agent on your teeth is longer than that of toothpaste,” Khan also said.
It’s important to keep in mind that slight discoloration is normal and unavoidable: teeth may be whitish in color, but that doesn’t mean they have to be. white white. It’s also important to note that having white teeth doesn’t necessarily mean your oral health is in tip-top shape.
That being said, there are steps you can take to minimize the shade of your teeth:
Stay on top of regular, professional cleanings. This is preferably twice a year, but at least once a year, and perhaps more often, as they can safely and effectively remove some surface stains. Also make sure your usual oral care routine is solid, with regular flossing and an electric toothbrush.
Rinse with water after drinking coffee or wine. Fraundorf recommends drinking a little still (non-carbonated) water between sips of coffee or wine, which are two of the main culprits for tooth stains. Drinking water often and swishing it around your mouth will also help reduce the acidity of certain foods and drinks.
Chew sugar-free gum. Another suggestion from Fraundrof, as chewing sugar-free gum after meals has been shown to help reduce ris what cavities.
“Although the Colgate Optic White Pro Series offers the most powerful whitening with 5% peroxide (the highest concentration legally available in over-the-counter toothpaste), it may not be ideal for sensitive teeth or long-term continuous use without alternating with a non-whitening toothpaste,” says Sachar. “I recommend this one for short-term use or occasional whitening. I tell my patients to use it for short periods of time and alternate it periodically with a non-whitening or enamel repair toothpaste.”
