How to choose a whitening toothpaste

Whitening toothpastes promise visible results within days. But how do you choose one that protects your oral health while brightening your teeth?

Ingredients worth looking for

Fluoride — essential to strengthen the enamel and prevent decay. Look for a content between 1,000 and 1,500 ppm for effective protection.

Gentle abrasives — such as baking soda or silica, which remove surface stains without damaging the enamel.

Watch the RDA value (abrasiveness)

• Below 70 — suitable for daily use and gentle on the enamel.
• 70 to 100 — effective whitening, but to be used in moderation.
• Above 100 — too aggressive; it can weaken the teeth over time.

What to avoid

Aggressive abrasives — they risk damaging the enamel and making the teeth sensitive.

Titanium dioxide — controversial; better avoided.

Fluoride-free toothpastes — whiteness should not come at the cost of protection against decay.

Charcoal — be cautious about its abrasiveness.

Pigments and the optical effect

Some toothpastes use coloured pigments to give the impression of redder gums and whiter teeth. The advantage is an immediate apparent brightness. However, the effect is temporary and purely cosmetic.

Professional whitening for a real change

Whitening toothpastes act on surface stains — tea, coffee, tobacco — but they do not change the natural colour of the teeth. For a genuinely whiter smile, professional whitening remains the reliable option.

A whitening toothpaste can complement your routine, but a bright and healthy smile starts with suitable professional care.

Book an appointment to discuss professional whitening suited to your situation.