At this time, going to the dentist for in-office whitening treatments may be a health hazard. The next best thing is using a whitening toothpaste at home. Looking for effective, but safe whitening toothpastes can be tricky. While peroxide is still the number one whitening ingredient, many are concerned about its harshness. Before looking for alternatives, board-certified orthodontist Dr. Kami Hoss stresses to Allure that in order to find the right remedy for discolored teeth, you have to consider the causes. While the common causes of discoloration are red wine and coffee, other causes include smoking, certain medications, and aging.

Realistic Expectations

To avoid negative and long-term side effects, always consult with your dentist if you want to try whitening products so you can both review the ingredients. Dentistry professor Dr. Mark Wolff does says that there are a lot of products in the market that offer whitening that will not harm teeth. The key is to follow instructions and use them correctly. Dr. Wolff also says that the tissue test you see on commercials is unrealistic and having brilliant white teeth is not always possible even after using dozens of whitening products. Dr. Hoss also discourages the use of charcoal toothpastes because there are studies that report teeth darkening and enamel damage. Try the following recommendations instead.

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Tom's of Maine Fluoride-Free Antiplaque & Whitening Toothpaste

Dr. Hoss suggests this whitening toothpaste to people who'd rather avoid fluoride.  To help remove surface stains, the toothpaste is formulated with whitening silica, but also has zinc citrate for tartar control and xylitol for plaque prevention. Cosmopolitan also likes Tom's Luminous White variant. Tom's of Maine toothpastes are formulated without sweeteners, artificial dyes and flavors or preservatives. They're also vegan and cruelty-free.

Burt's Bees Purely White Zen Peppermint Toothpaste

Another fluoride-free option is Burt's Bees Purely White Zen Peppermint Toothpaste. It contains hydrated silica to remove surface stains and peppermint leaves to give you that fresh and clean feeling. This toothpaste is also made without parabens, sodium lauryl sulfate, sweeteners, artificial flavors, and preservatives. In addition, the packaging is recyclable which is always a big plus.

Nu Skin AP24 Whitening Fluoride Toothpaste

For those who don't mind fluoride, board-certified dentist Dr. Rhonda Kalasho approves of Nu Skin AP24 Whitening Fluoride Toothpaste. It removes superficial stains from food, wine, coffee, and tobacco, while the fluoride strengthens tooth enamel. The unexpected hint of vanilla mixed with the toothpaste's signature mint flavor may also have you looking forward to brushing your teeth.

Sensodyne Extra Whitening Toothpaste

For sensitive teeth, Dr. Kalasho also recommends this fluoride-enhanced toothpaste. Not only does it whiten teeth and prevents cavities, but it also has potassium nitrate to relieve sensitivity. Sensodyne Extra Whitening Toothpaste also has sorbitol and glycerin that won't cause dryness in the mouth.

Crest 3D White Arctic Fresh

For Cosmopolitan, the best drugstore whitening toothpaste is Crest 3D White Arctic Fresh. It banishes stains and prevents yellowing while its fluoride content keeps cavities away.

Go Natural Herbal Whitening Tooth Powder

If you want to explore natural options, Byrdie suggests Go Natural Herbal Whitening Tooth Powder. It has bentonite clay, turmeric, and coconut oil to naturally lift stains and detoxify your system.

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