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Show off your pearly whites.

A hand squeezing whitening toothpaste onto a toothbrush

Byrdie

It helps decrease tooth sensitivity and rebuild the enamel while keeping stains at bay.

Finding the right formula comes down to your oral health, personal preference, and desired results.

Carla Tornatore, DDS, recommends it.

a tube of Sensodyne Pronamel Gentle Whitening Toothpaste on a bathroom counter

PHOTO: Byrdie / Alexander Huang

The unique formula removes stains, prevents cavities, and decreases sensitivity at the same time.

That’s a win-win-win in our book.

During testing, we noticed that the toothpaste brightened teeth but it didnt produce permanent whitening results.

Opalescence Whitening Toothpaste for Sensitive Teeth

PHOTO: Amazon

However, thats to be expected since toothpaste is only on the teeth for a short period of time.

We never experienced any stinging, burning, or discomfort while using the product.

The only thing we didnt love was the taste.

whitening toothpaste test opalescence before and after

PHOTO: Byrdie

It wasn’t horrible, per se, its just potent.

This formula in particular is a great option for those who have experienced tooth sensitivity while whitening.

Plus, the addition of sodium fluoride helps maintain the strength of the enamel.

Opalescence Whitening Toothpaste for Sensitive Teeth

While we love how quickly it works, the results stay stagnant after the initial whitening.

The longer I used it, though, the effects became stagnant.

There was no additional increase in brightness as time went on."

whitening toothpaste test opalescence before and after

Plus, it’s pretty gentle, so our sensitive-toothed friends can use it comfortably.

Despite having subtly abrasive polishing ingredients, its not too granular (though it can feel subtly chalky).

Ally, tester:“I would definitely recommend Tom’s of Maine Simply White Toothpaste.

Opalescence Whitening Toothpaste for Sensitive Teeth

Its subtle flavor and gentle mouthfeel make it easy to use day and night.

But the Crest Pro-Health Advanced Gum Restore Whitening Toothpaste is differentit’s easy on sensitive gums.

We love that it leaves the teeth and mouth clean and refreshed, sans itching and burning.

a tube of Tom’s of Maine Simply White Toothpaste Gel on a bathroom counter

PHOTO: Byrdie / Alexander Huang

Instead, it just leaves behind a fresh finish.

Jessica, tester:“It was very comfortable to use.

I have very sensitive teeth and gum recession, so I often opt for toothpaste for sensitive teeth.

a hand squeezing Tom’s of Maine Simply White Toothpaste Gel onto a toothbrush

Byrdie

While that may sound a little scary, we promise you, its not.

This toothpaste from Colgate is one that Dr. Gonchar swears by.

She uses it on patients to avoid damaging the enamel that can otherwise happen with grittier formulas.

A tube of Crest Pro-Health Advanced Gum Restore Whitening Toothpaste on white tile

PHOTO: Byrdie

Baking soda is a mild abrasive, so it can remove stains from the surface of your teeth.

Its important to note, however, that these ingredients might cause a reaction for ultrasensitive teeth or gums.

Elie, tester:“Over time, this toothpaste was effective in whitening my teeth.

a hand squeezing crest gum restore whitening toothpaste on a toothbrush

Byrdie

We noticed our teeth were one shade whiter after four weeks.

Plus, long-term use may yield even more drastic results.

Hildara, tester:“This toothpaste felt very pleasant.

a tube of Colgate optic white toothpaste on a bathroom counter

PHOTO: Byrdie

There was no grittiness.

There was a tiny bit of tingling, which I would describe more like a refreshing feeling.

I did not experience any additional sensitivity even though I have naturally sensitive teeth.

a person squeezing Colgate optic white toothpaste onto a toothbrush

Byrdie

There was no discomfort at all.

I especially like that it made my gums and the inside of my cheeks feel clean.

It was very gentle.”

Colgate Baking Soda and Peroxide Whitening Bubbles Toothpaste

PHOTO: Target

Rhonda Kalasho, DDS, favorite.

Its perfect for maintaining whitened teeth at homejust brush two to three times daily with this toothpaste andfloss.

For more dramatic results, you’ve got the option to also try anLED tooth whitening kit.

Crest Gum and Sensitivity Gentle Whitening Toothpaste

PHOTO: Amazon

But brushing daily is your best bet.

This helps prevent the build-up of stains on the outer surface of your teeth, she explains.

Switching to an electric toothbrush can be even more effective.

Sensodyne Extra Whitening Toothpaste

PHOTO: Amazon

She interviewed several dental experts for this story, carefully considering each of their recommendations.

She then referred back to the insights our real-life testers recorded and landed on these picks.

She’s familiar with most of the whitening toothpastes on this list, and feels confident recommending them.

four tubes of whitening toothpaste on a bathroom counter

Byrdie