8 Best Whitening Toothpastes for a Brighter Smile

Like it or not, your smile can make a big first impression (heck, there’s research to prove it). When your teeth are looking a little dull and lackluster—perhaps from one too many cups of coffee or glasses of wine—the best whitening toothpastes are on your side. Although they’re much less powerful than at-home whitening kits and professional bleaching treatments, they’re a simple and affordable solution to achieving pearlier whites over time.

“Whitening toothpastes can be effective at removing surface stains and help brighten the overall appearance of the teeth,” says Dr. Ben El Chami, DMD. “They work by using mild abrasives and chemicals, like silica or baking soda, to remove superficial stains. Some also contain enzymes or bleaching agents, such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, to help break down or lighten deeper stains,” he adds.

And because they contain a lower concentration of active whitening ingredients that can be sensitizing, these toothpastes are typically a gentler brightening method for those who prefer it.

While perusing your local drugstore aisle, Dr. El Chami says to look for whitening toothpastes that do double duty to keep teeth healthy, via ingredients like fluoride and xylitol. “Despite being a somewhat controversial ingredient, fluoride has widely been scientifically proven to be safe for strengthening teeth against cavities,” he mentions. “Meanwhile, xylitol is a natural sweetener that helps reduce bacteria and prevent plaque buildup.”

What’s more, it’s a good idea to seek options that carry the American Dental Association’s (ADA) Seal of Acceptance. (The organization only accepts products that are made with fluoride.) “This seal indicates that the toothpaste has been evaluated by the ADA and found to be safe and effective for its intended use,” Dr. El Chami explains. “If you want to use a product without the ADA seal, make sure to speak with your dentist first.”

To guide you on your journey towards a whiter smile, we consulted Dr. El Chami on his favorite picks and scoured tons of top-rated products to compile the eight best whitening toothpastes, below. From all-natural selects to gentle options formulated specifically for people with sensitive mouths, these toothpastes will actually make you excited to brush.