13 best whitening toothpastes, according to dentists
When it comes to the best whitening toothpastes, there’s no shortage of options to shop – but not all formulas are created equal. While whitening toothpastes won’t deliver the dramatic results of a professional treatment (or one of these teeth whitening products), the right toothpaste can still make a visible difference – especially when paired with one of the best electric toothbrushes.
Designed for daily use, top whitening toothpastes are packed with key ingredients like peroxide and carbamide peroxide that work to remove surface stains, deal with discolouration, and leave you with a Hollywood-worthy smile.
Clearly, trying out some trusty at-home teeth whitening kits is also a great way to brighten your smile without blowing your whole budget on your next visit to the dentist or hygienist. Alongside mastering at home manicures, and learning how to shape our brows ourselves, wearing teeth whitening strips just feels like a pretty easy treatment to add into your regular DIY beauty maintenance days.
Whether you're after a colour-correcting toothpaste that provides an instant whitening effect, a formula that'll strengthen and protect the enamel and tackle deep-set stains, or something that's been specifically designed with sensitive teeth and gums in mind, these are the best toothpastes we've found for those seeking a whiter smile.
What is the main cause of yellow teeth?
“Some of the most common causes of discoloured teeth are lifestyle habits," explains cosmetic dentist, Dr Krystyna Wilczynski. “These include eating and drinking foods that cause staining, such as red wine, coffee, tea, cola and curry." She adds that smoking is the biggest culprit for turning teeth yellow very quickly. "Certain foods and drinks high in acidity, such as berries, tomatoes, fruit juices and alcohol, can also soften the enamel and make your teeth more likely to pick up stains from other foods.”
Wilczynski stresses how important it is to brush your teeth morning and night, and have frequent hygienist appointments (every 6 months, ideally). “The dentine on your teeth absorbs food colour, and stains also latch onto plaque and tartar build up on and between teeth, as they find anchorage in crevices.” Which brings us back to the importance of a good teeth-transforming toothpaste.
How do whitening toothpastes actually work?
Typically slightly abrasive, most whitening toothpastes contain ingredients like silica that work to scrub the surface of the teeth, and deeply clean the outside layer. “Some also contain hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide, which are bleaching agents,” adds Wilczynski. “Although these will be at a very low level compared to professional whitening products — so they're so safe for home use.” Activated charcoal is another popular scrubbing ingredient — but it isn't endorsed by all dental professionals, as it can be known to wear away enamel.
Some whitening toothpastes also contain the chemical ‘blue covarine’, which adheres to the surface of the teeth and creates an optical illusion that can make teeth appear less yellow. Others are boosted by enzymes that help to gently break down plaque and staining.
Whichever whitening technology you reach for, Wilczynski recommends always choosing a toothpaste containing fluoride: "It's the essential ingredient for protecting and fighting against tooth decay.”
Are they safe for your teeth?
Yes. The majority of shop-bought, FDA-approved whitening toothpastes offer gentle yet effective results and should be suitable for most. But the health of everyone's teeth and gums varies greatly, so it's always advisable to speak to your dentist before investing in any new at-home dental care.
How we tested the best whitening toothpastes:
Big on bright and white smiles, the GLAMOUR team has been lucky enough to try hundreds of whitening toothpastes over the years — from a range of both big and small oral care brands. Clearly, we use these experiences to help inform our reviews — but we also scrutinise everything from the key ingredients used and clinical trial results, to the specific taste of the paste and customer reviews, in order to make sure we're only suggesting products that we truly believe to be great value for money.
Ahead, our teeth whitening toothpaste top picks for stain removal and maximum brightening in 2025…
Specifications:
- Key ingredients: Activated charcoal, tea tree oil, coconut oil, citric acid.
- Vegan? Unspecified.
- Recyclable packaging? Yes.
Why we love it: Packed with the natural power of activated charcoal, this whitening toothpaste doesn’t just lift away stains for that brighter-than-bright finish, it also works hard behind the scenes with antibacterial and toxin-absorbing properties. The fresh mint flavour keeps your breath on point all day, while the creamy, foamy texture feels satisfying every time you brush. Whether you pair it with the SmilePro Whitening Kit or use it solo, expect fresher breath, a natural oral detox, and whiter teeth without any uncomfortable sensitivity.
MySweetSmile Fresh Mint Toothpaste
Specifications:
- Key ingredients: Sodium fluoride, hydrated silica, and xylitol.
- Vegan? Yes.
- Recyclable packaging? Unspecified.
Why we love it: While not strictly a whitening toothpaste, MySweetSmile’s Fresh Mint formula is infused with an invigorating mint flavour that delivers a crisp, cooling sensation, leaving your breath fresh and your smile noticeably brighter. It’s the perfect companion to the brand’s award-winning whitening innovations –such as their teeth whitening strips and whitening powders – which our editors have personally tested and approved.
Clinically tested in Germany and awarded the prestigious Dermatest® 5-Star Seal of Approval, this enamel-friendly formula works to effectively brighten teeth, combat plaque, and strengthen enamel without compromise. It's also available in both fluoride and fluoride-free options.
Spotlight Oral Care Ultra Whitening Professional Toothpaste Bundle
Specifications:
- Key ingredients: Water (Aqua), Sorbitol, Hydrated Silica, Aroma, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Cellulose Gum, Pentasodium Triphosphate, Titanium Dioxide, Sodium Saccharin, Sodium Fluoride, Potassium Sorbate, Hydrogen Peroxide, Sodium Bicarbonate.
- Vegan? Yes.
- Recyclable packaging? Yes.
Why we love it: There's a lot that we love about this high-tech toothpaste. Its clinically proven formula boasts active whitening ingredients like sodium fluoride and hydrogen peroxide that lift stains, strengthen the teeth, and leave you with a brighter and whiter smile — whilst still fully protecting the enamel. A brand made by dentists, Spotlight Oral Care is also home to heaps of other teeth whitening kits and accessories — like LED systems, whitening pens and strips, and accelerator gels and powders.
Read GLAMOUR's Spotlight Oralcare Sonic Toothbrush Review.
Pearl Drops Lasting Flawless White Toothpolish
Specifications:
- Key ingredients: Liquid calcium, whitening fluoride, hydrated silica.
- Vegan? Undisclosed.
- Recyclable packaging? 100% recyclable (Tube, Cap and Carton).
Why we love it: Alongside whitening fluoride and plaque removers like hydrated silica, this formula contains liquid calcium — one of the most efficient yet low abrasion cleaning agents that works to remineralise and repair worn-down enamel, remove surface stains, and buff away any imperfections. Best of all, this toothpaste promises to give you an all-round brighter smile in just three days.
Save when you shop for the best whitening toothpaste with these Boots discount codes.
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Crest 3D Brilliance Toothpaste Advanced Whitening
Specifications:
- Key ingredients: Hydrogen peroxide.
- Vegan? Undisclosed.
- Recyclable packaging? Undisclosed.
Why we love it: The #1 Whitening Brand in America, Crest is famous for creating various powerful at-home whitening treatments and toothpastes. Imported from the USA, this top whitening toothpaste is formulated with nourishing fluoride to strengthen the enamel and prevent cavities, and the highest level of hydrogen peroxide for maximum whiteness and brightness.
Colgate Max White Ultimate Radiance Toothpaste
Specifications:
- Key ingredients: Calcium Pyrophosphate, Silica, Tetrasodium Pyrophosphate.
- Vegan? Undisclosed.
- Recyclable packaging? Undisclosed.
Why we love it: This best-selling professional whitening toothpaste is packed with heaps of impressive key ingredients that make it clinically proven to leave the teeth looking ten-times whiter. Silica works to remove surface stains in a non-abrasive way, while millions of active oxygen molecules are released to tackle deep-set stains beneath the enamel surface. At the same time, the Advanced Brightener System makes teeth appear instantly whiter by reflecting blue light.
Save when you shop for the best whitening toothpaste with these Amazon discount codes.
Sensodyne Sensitive Whitening Toothpaste
Specifications:
- Key ingredients: Glycerin, Hydrated Silica, Calcium.
- Vegan? Undisclosed.
- Recyclable packaging? No.
Why we love it: Thanks to Sensodyne, tooth sensitivity doesn't have to get in the way of you achieving your dream pearly whites. Designed to deliver long-lasting protection and relief, this gentle whitening toothpaste has been formulated to create a protective layer over particularly sensitive areas of your teeth — while also restoring your teeth to their natural whiteness with twice daily brushing.
Arm & Hammer Charcoal White Toothpaste
Specifications:
- Key ingredients: Activated charcoal.
- Vegan? Undisclosed.
- Recyclable packaging? Undisclosed.
Why we love it: When it comes to budget-friendly whitening toothpastes, Arm & Hammer remains one of our go-to brands. Made with key ingredients like calcium to rebuild and restore the enamel, activated charcoal for tackling surface staining, and baking soda for reducing plaque and boosting whiteness, it's been clinically proven to leave you with a whiter smile in just three short days.
Corsodyl Whitening Complete Protection Toothpaste
Specifications:
- Key ingredients: Chlorhexidine digluconate, Sodium Bicarbonate, Hydrated Silica.
- Vegan? Undisclosed.
- Recyclable packaging? Yes.
Why we love it: Whether it's a mouthwash or a toothpaste, all Corsodyl products are formulated with chlorhexidine digluconate; an antibacterial disinfectant that targets the build up of bacteria and plaque along the gum line — which is essential crucial for preventing gum disease and other oral health issues. Essentially, it's a safe and effective whitening toothpaste for anyone dealing with gum problems.
Boka Nano Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste
Specifications:
- Key ingredients: Nano Hydroxyapatite.
- Vegan? Undisclosed.
- Recyclable packaging? Undisclosed.
Why we love it: Trading fluoride in for Nano Hydroxyapatite (NHA) — a biomaterial that helps to naturally remineralise the enamel, restore and protect the teeth, and leave you with a brighter smile — this toothpaste is a great option for those who struggle with tooth and gum sensitivity. With its non-toxic and fluoride-free formula, it's a toothpaste that definitely wont leave your mouth burning.
Specifications:
- Key ingredients: Glycerin, Hydrated Silica, Aqua, Tetrapotassium Pyrophosphate.
- Vegan? Undisclosed.
- Recyclable packaging? Undisclosed.
Why we love it: Not only does this Marvis toothpaste come in a truly luxurious tube, it's packed with a cocktail of clever ingredients that prevent decay, fight plaque, and reduce discolouration of the teeth. Plus, the sharp and minty flavour has a really cool and clean taste — and also keeps your breath fresh all day.
Specifications:
- Key ingredients: Hydrated silica, xylitol, PAP, hydroxyapatite.
- Vegan? Unspecified.
- Recyclable packaging? Yes.
Why we love it: Hismile’s PAP+ Whitening Toothpaste is designed to brighten your smile gently and effectively. Free from fluoride and peroxide, it uses a proprietary PAP+ whitening agent that lifts stains without causing sensitivity. Made with plant-derived and synthetic ingredients, this toothpaste offers an enamel-safe, ethical option for those seeking a brighter, healthier smile.
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PÄRLA PRO High Gloss Whitening Sensitive Toothpaste Tabs
Specifications:
- Key ingredients: Hydroxyapatite, fluoride, Vitamin E and Vitamin B12.
- Vegan? Undisclosed.
- Recyclable packaging? Undisclosed.
Why we love it: As well as being ideal for travel, these toothpaste tablets deliver some serious whitening results. While hydroxyapatite and fluoride work together on a deeper level to enhance enamel strength by up to 65% — and reverse damage done by sugar and acidity — baking soda and hydrated silica remove of plaque and food particles, tackle stains, and leave behind a whitening effect. Best of all, the tablets are also enriched with enriched with Vitamin E and Vitamin B12 — which are essential vitamins that play a crucial role in supporting gum health and overall wellness.
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