Best whitening toothpastes for a dazzling smile (2024)

Best whitening toothpastes for a dazzling smile (1)

With everyday life full of teeth-staining drinks such as coffee, tea and red wine (it's good for the heart, right?) and foods – tomato-based sauces, curry and balsamic vinegar can all contribute to discolouration, for example – it can be difficult to maintain a sparkling white smile.

However, the best whitening toothpastes, used twice a day alongside an

electric toothbrush and regular flossing, can help. So, the Good Housekeeping Institute tested the best on the market – here are our top picks at a glance:

    How does whitening toothpaste work?

    Whitening toothpastes target the enamel (the outer layer of the tooth that protects the sensitive under-layers), using a combination of methods to maximise the effects.

    Optical: This method uses blue-toned brighteners, which coat your teeth as you brush. When you see the claim “instant whiteness” or “instant brightness”, it's usually this method that provides that immediate difference. It's also the reason why whitening toothpaste may produce a blue coloured foam when brushing.

    Buffing: Also known as abrasives or polishing, these work by using small scrubbing agents, such as activated charcoal or silica, to remove dental plaque and stains from teeth. Do be aware that sometimes prolonged use can wear down tooth enamel leading to sensitivity.

    Enzyme-action: With enzymes usually derived from fruit, this method claims to break down proteins on the teeth that have been linked to teeth staining.

    Chemical: This works by using a chemical, either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, to whiten teeth. It helps bleach and lighten stains on the enamel to make them appear whiter.

    Is whitening toothpaste safe?

    Yes. As it's classed as a cosmetic product, it must adhere to strict EU regulations safety guidelines.

    However, those who have sensitive teeth may wish to proceed with caution as the abrasive nature of some whitening toothpastes could cause further sensitivity and damage the enamel. Peroxides can also cause teeth and gums to become sensitive. If you're looking for a dramatic colour change, you may be better off combining one of these toothpastes with a teeth whitening kit.

    How did the GHI test whitening toothpastes?

    Our panel of 278 testers brushed and rinsed their way through 13 brands of the best whitening toothpastes over an eight-week period. They assessed any whitening effects, stain removal and prevention, and whether the toothpaste increased any sensitivity in their teeth or gums.

    Testers also had pictures of their teeth taken with our VISIA image analysis machine. In the lab, the GHI experts used a whiteness scale to analyse the images before and after the trial to analyse any changes.

    1

    Best whitening toothpaste

    Pearl Drops Strong Polished White Toothpaste, 75ml

    Best whitening toothpastes for a dazzling smile (8)

    Best whitening toothpastes for a dazzling smile (9)

    1

    Best whitening toothpaste

    Pearl Drops Strong Polished White Toothpaste, 75ml

    Now 50% Off

    Score: 79/100

    With a “low abrasion” formula, this toothpaste claims to leave teeth up to four shades whiter in three weeks, as well as strengthening the enamel and preventing cavities.

    Coming top in our lab test, our panel didn't experience any increased teeth sensitivity during the trial. Leaving the mouth feeling clean and fresh after rinsing, some testers compared it to a trip to their hygienist.

    Key specifications

    Whitening method(s)Buffing, optical
    Cap typeScrew-on
    Travel size availableNo

    2

    Panel's choice

    iWhite Whitening Toothpaste, 75ml

    Best whitening toothpastes for a dazzling smile (10)

    Best whitening toothpastes for a dazzling smile (11)

    2

    Panel's choice

    iWhite Whitening Toothpaste, 75ml

    Score: 78/100

    This formula claims to help improve the appearance of both surface and deeper staining, as well as helping to strengthen and remineralise teeth.

    This toothpaste came out top for its whitening effect with our testers, with the majority saying they would continue to use it after the trial. They also found it lathered well and left their breath smelling fresh.

    Key specifications

    Whitening method(s)Buffing, chemical
    Cap typeScrew-on
    Travel size availableNo

    3

    Colgate Max White Expert Complete Whitening Toothpaste, 90ml

    Best whitening toothpastes for a dazzling smile (12)

    Best whitening toothpastes for a dazzling smile (13)

    3

    Colgate Max White Expert Complete Whitening Toothpaste, 90ml

    Now 50% Off

    Score: 75/100

    Colgate's Max White Expert claims to instantly whiten teeth while reversing yellowing caused by food and drink and preventing further staining.

    The majority of our testers were satisfied with the whitening effects, which they said were gradual. They also agreed that it prevented staining from strong coloured food or drink. It has a minty taste but a few of our testers also noted a slight medicinal note.

    Key specifications

    Whitening method(s)Optical, chemical
    Cap typeScrew-on
    Travel size availableNo

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    4

    Best fluoride-free whitening toothpaste

    Dr Ginger's Coconut Oil Toothpaste With White Charcoal

    Best whitening toothpastes for a dazzling smile (14)

    Best whitening toothpastes for a dazzling smile (15)

    4

    Best fluoride-free whitening toothpaste

    Dr Ginger's Coconut Oil Toothpaste With White Charcoal

    Score: 74/100

    This toothpaste formulated with coconut oil and activated white charcoal claims to lift stains without any unnecessary ingredients.

    Coming second in our lab test, our testers found the whitening effect to be gradual. They did, however, rate it top for preventing stains from dark coloured food and drink. It wasn't harsh on the teeth and didn't leave any residue in the mouth, with testers also enjoying the pleasant texture and the fact it didn't leave a mess in the sink.

    Key specifications

    Whitening method(s)Buffing
    Cap typeScrew-on
    Travel size availableNo

    5

    Best for travel

    Arm & Hammer Charcoal White Natural Toothpaste, 75ml

    Best whitening toothpastes for a dazzling smile (16)

    Best whitening toothpastes for a dazzling smile (17)

    5

    Best for travel

    Arm & Hammer Charcoal White Natural Toothpaste, 75ml

    Score: 71/100

    Claiming to give you a whiter smile in three days, the toothpaste is formulated with activated charcoal and baking soda. The brand also says that it removes stains, while making enamel stronger.

    The majority of our testers were satisfied with the whitening effect but would have liked it to be longer lasting. However, most didn't experience any increased sensitivity after use. Testers also liked how the paste foamed and left the mouth feeling clean. Handily, it's also available in a travel-sized tube.

    Key specifications

    Whitening method(s)Chemical, buffing, optical
    Cap typeScrew-on
    Travel size availableYes

    6

    Best budget whitening toothpaste

    Superdrug Procare Whitening Toothpaste

    Best whitening toothpastes for a dazzling smile (18)

    Best whitening toothpastes for a dazzling smile (19)

    6

    Best budget whitening toothpaste

    Superdrug Procare Whitening Toothpaste

    Score: 71/100

    Claiming to help remove stains and whiten the teeth, this budget pick also promises to protect against tooth decay and freshen breath instantly.

    Testers found the whitening effect to be subtle, but the formulation was smooth and they were happy there was no chalkiness or grittiness while brushing. The majority of testers didn't experience any teeth or gum sensitivity either.

    Key specifications

    Whitening method(s)Buffing, optical
    Cap typeScrew on
    Travel size availableNo

    Best whitening toothpastes for a dazzling smile (20)

    Florence Reeves-White

    Senior Beauty Writer

    Florence is our Senior Beauty Writer, specialising in expert-tested beauty and grooming reviews — from toothbrushes to the latest skincare launches. She’s committed to sharing recommendations for products that truly work and make people feel confident and healthy. Prior to this she was at Tropic Skincare, where she worked closely with biochemists in the lab, delving into the functions of each fresh, natural ingredient and conveying its efficacy to her audience in easy-to-digest terms.

    With over five years’ experience in beauty and health journalism, Florence has written for ELLE, Women’s Fitness, Sister Magazine, National Geographic Traveller and many more, with a strong sustainability angle thread through much of her work.

    When she isn’t packing for a trip away, working out, eating out or reading up on retinol serums, you’ll probably find her experimenting with her film camera and building her portfolio of portraits. Florence’s photography can be found at florencereeves-white.com, her Instagram is @florencereeveswhite and her twitter is @floreadsnwrites

    Best whitening toothpastes for a dazzling smile (21)

    Tested byMaria Kumar

    Beauty and Grooming Testing Manager

    Maria is our Beauty and Grooming Testing Manager, and since joining in mid-2022, she has managed the testing for mutiple categories including scalp scrubs, collagen supplements and retinol serums. In addition to her master's degree in chemical engineering and a diploma in cosmetic science, she recently received her MBA from the London College of Fashion, focusing on case studies within the beauty industry. Prior to joining the company, she worked within the global technical team at the Estee Lauder Companies for over six years, collaborating with the chemists and engineers to launch luxury beauty products at scale and to quality. She has also worked as a formulation scientist within the pharmaceutical industry and takes this evidence based approach into all her product testing.

    Best whitening toothpastes for a dazzling smile (2024)

    FAQs

    How do you get a super white smile? ›

    Seven Ways to Naturally Whiten Teeth
    1. Eat Strawberries. One of the simplest ways to naturally whiten your teeth is just by eating strawberries. ...
    2. Eat Plenty of Fruits and Vegetables. ...
    3. Brush After You Eat or Drink. ...
    4. Rinse with Apple Cider Vinegar. ...
    5. Apply Coconut Oil. ...
    6. Brush Your Tongue. ...
    7. Use Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide.

    How do you get dazzling white teeth? ›

    6 Natural Ways To Whiten Your Teeth
    1. First things first, brush your teeth regularly: ...
    2. Oil pulling: ...
    3. Brush with baking soda and hydrogen peroxide paste: ...
    4. Rub banana, orange, or lemon peels: ...
    5. Take a diet rich in fruits and vegetables: ...
    6. Go to the dentist:

    How can I make my teeth white and sparkle? ›

    Hydrogen peroxide is a mild bleach that can help to whiten stained teeth . For optimal whitening, a person can try brushing with a mix of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide for 1–2 minutes twice a day for a week. They should only do this occasionally.

    Which toothpaste whitens teeth the fastest? ›

    The 5 best whitening toothpastes, according to a cosmetic dentist
    • Opalescence Whitening. This is my personal favorite and the one I use. ...
    • Crest 3D White. ...
    • Tom's of Maine Antiplaque & Whitening. ...
    • Sensodyne. ...
    • Arm & Hammer.

    Which whitening toothpaste has the most hydrogen peroxide? ›

    What level of hydrogen peroxide is best for whitening teeth at home? Created by whitening professionals, Colgate® Optic White® Pro Series Whitening Toothpaste contains 5% hydrogen peroxide, our highest available level of hydrogen peroxide in an over-the-counter whitening toothpaste.

    How to whiten teeth in 2 minutes? ›

    Baking-powder eliminates stains on the surface of your teeth and lemon juice as we already said has multiple components that lighten teeth. Just mix a teaspoon of baking powder and a teaspoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice and brush your teeth with the paste this mixture will work wonders in just two minutes.

    How do celebrities get super white teeth? ›

    Veneers. Many celebrities have a tooth-related secret – their teeth aren't really as white as they look. They are actually covered by thin sheets of resin or porcelain called veneers.

    How can I get 100% white teeth? ›

    There are several methods to make teeth whiter, including:
    1. Brushing regularly.
    2. Using whitening products at home.
    3. Avoiding things that stain teeth.
    4. Getting professional teeth whitening.
    5. Opting for veneers.

    How to whiten teeth over 60? ›

    Bleaching Trays

    Compared to commercial products, whitening trays from your dentist are stronger and much safer for seniors in particular. As you age, your gums and teeth can become more sensitive. Your dentist can first evaluate your oral health to determine if you are eligible to receive teeth whitening.

    Does apple cider vinegar whiten teeth? ›

    Apple cider vinegar as a whitening rinse won't lead to immediately brighter, whiter teeth. Consistent use over time – making sure to dilute to avoid enamel erosion – can eventually lead to a whiter smile. Always be sure to consult a dentist first to make sure it's the best choice.

    Does swishing hydrogen peroxide whiten teeth? ›

    When used carefully, it can be an effective way to whiten your teeth. But if used incorrectly — in concentrations that are too high or if used too often — it can cause serious and sometimes expensive tooth damage. If you choose to whiten your teeth with hydrogen peroxide, do so cautiously.

    How fast does baking soda whiten teeth? ›

    But, how long the baking soda takes to work depends on the severity of the stains. Generally, it takes about two weeks of daily use before you start seeing results. If you're looking for a quick fix, other options are available, such as professional teeth whitening in the Colony, TX, or take-home kits.

    How do dentists get teeth so white? ›

    The process involves applying whitening gel on a tooth. The gel contains 25 % to 40 % hydrogen peroxide. A heating lamp or laser is aimed at the teeth for 20 minutes intervals. During the heating procedure, a protective barrier is used to protect the gums and tongue from the gel.

    Do any whitening toothpastes actually work? ›

    Key takeaways: Whitening toothpaste can help remove surface stains from your teeth. But it may not be able to remove deeper stains or discoloration. Ingredients like peroxide, baking soda, potassium nitrate, and fluoride are best when looking for a whitening toothpaste.

    Do any teeth whitening products work? ›

    Then, over-the-counter whitening agents can work effectively. But because it's not dentist-monitored, many of them don't do anything. For instance, a mouthwash containing a whitening agent such as hydrogen peroxide probably is not going to be very effective.

    Does whitening toothpaste ever work? ›

    If you're dealing with day-to-day surface stains from yellowing beverages or other lifestyle habits, a whitening toothpaste can help you scrub away this discoloration before it becomes a permanent part of your smile. However, this typically takes between two and six weeks of regular use.

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