Want to brighten your pearly whites without an expensive and potentially invasive dental procedure? The simple solution is whitening toothpaste and at-home tooth-whitening products. But does whitening toothpaste really work? Is it safe? What is the best whitening toothpaste? How many toothpaste tubes do you need to go through before you see results? If you’re asking these questions, you’re not alone. Many people question the efficacy of such products.
As South Africa’s trusted supplier of premium home dental care products (all backed by a local dentist), Smile Shop offers honest and reliable answers to your whitening toothpaste FAQs so you can make an informed decision before your next purchase.
Let’s get down to it and provide the answers you need:
#1 Does whitening toothpaste work?
This is a valid and reasonable question that a lot of people are asking.
The short answer is yes, but within limits. Whitening toothpaste removes surface stains caused by coffee, tea, or smoking.
It contains mild abrasives and sometimes special chemicals like hydrogen peroxide or baking soda that polish your enamel. However, it won’t change the natural colour of your teeth or address deeper stains. (Read our tips for maintaining whiter teeth here).
For more dramatic results, consider Smile Shop’s at-home whitening kits.
#2 Can I use whitening toothpaste while pregnant?
If you’re expecting, it’s natural to be cautious about everything you use, including toothpaste.
While many whitening toothpastes are safe during pregnancy because they don’t contain harmful concentrations of bleaching agents, it is advisable always to check the ingredient list and consult your dentist before using any tooth-whitening product.
#3 What is the best whitening toothpaste?
When it comes to finding the best whitening toothpaste, it quickly becomes evident that not all toothpastes are created equal.
Smile Shop offers a wide selection of trusted, tested and effective tooth whitening products that work. Here are some of our top-selling products:
#1 Curaprox Black is White Toothpaste
It uses charcoal to combat stains, absorbing tiny particles such as food stains from teeth. Harnessing the power of activated carbon, this whitening toothpaste works to absorb unattractive, discoloured stains on teeth without abrading or bleaching teeth.
Curaprox Black is White Toothpaste contains no products that pose a health risk, ensuring clean teeth and healthy oral hygiene with no danger.
#2 Opalescence Professional Whitening Toothpaste
This award-winning whitening toothpaste is safe for everyday use and is less abrasive than other leading whitening toothpastes on the South African market.
It also promises exceptional fluoride uptake and is certified both kosher and vegan. Manufacturers say this toothpaste can effectively remove surface stains to lighten teeth up to 2 shades in 1 month.
#3 G.U.M Original White Toothpaste
This affordable whitening toothpaste solution naturally whitens teeth while maintaining healthy gums. It gently removes stains without the use of harsh ingredients, reinforcing and protecting enamel while revitalising gums.
#4 How long does it take to whiten teeth with toothpaste?
Patience is a virtue that rings true when it comes to oral health.
Whitening toothpaste doesn’t work overnight. With consistent use, you may notice a difference in about 2 to 6 weeks. The results depend on factors like the severity of staining and your oral hygiene routine.
For faster results, Smile Shop offers advanced whitening treatments that complement your toothpaste.
#5 Can kids use whitening toothpaste?
Whitening toothpaste is not recommended for children under 12.
Children have softer enamel, and the abrasives in whitening toothpaste could lead to tooth decay.
Instead, focus on age-appropriate fluoride toothpaste to maintain their oral health. If you’re concerned about discolouration, consult a paediatric dentist for advice.
#6 Is whitening toothpaste bad for your teeth?
When used correctly, whitening toothpaste is safe for most people. However, excessive brushing can wear down enamel, leading to tooth sensitivity.
To avoid this, choose products designed for daily use, like many of those sold at Smile Shop, and follow brushing guidelines.
Pairing whitening toothpaste with fluoride treatments can further protect your enamel.
Experience a brighter smile with Smile Shop
With hundreds of affordable, premium, dentist-approved dental care products at the click of a button, Smile Shop gives South Africans a reason to smile confidently.