The Only 5 Whitening Toothpastes That Actually Work, Says a Dentist

When you use a product day in and day out, it can be difficult to gauge how effective it really is. That's especially true when it comes to gradual teeth-whitening products. Myriad factors, like your penchant for black coffee and red wine, can leave you second-guessing whether your toothpaste of choice actually works.

Beverly Hills-based dentist Neil Hadaegh, DDS, points out that whitening toothpaste varies greatly, so it's important to choose wisely. In an article for Business Insider, Hadaegh names the only products he recommends to clients for the best results.

Here are the top five he swears by:

Opalescence Whitening Toothpaste $10

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"This is my personal favorite and the one I use," he says.

Crest 3D White Fluoride Anticavity Toothpaste $9

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"The newest whitening toothpaste from Crest is probably the best bang for your buck as it can remove up to 95% of surface stains."

Tom's of Maine Antiplaque and Whitening Fluoride-Free Toothpaste $9

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"[This is ideal] for those who want an all-natural and fluoride-free alternative."

Sensodyne 24/7 Sensitivity Protection Extra Whitening Toothpaste $10

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"It contains potassium nitrate which helps relieve sensitivity fast and usually has an effect that lasts 24 hours."

Arm & Hammer Advance White Extreme Whitening Toothpaste $8 $6

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"A baking soda- and peroxide-based toothpaste that adds another element of whitening as the peroxide can lift stains and whiten your teeth."