13 Best Toothpastes of 2025, According to Experts
Remember to read the product labels and follow the instructions. Also, consult with your dentist who can provide personalized recommendations based on your unique dental needs and any existing oral health conditions.
✔️ ADA Seal of Acceptance: “Toothpastes with the ADA Seal are more likely to be effective in preventing tooth decay, gum disease and protecting against enamel erosion,” explains Dr. Wei. It’s a reliable indicator that the toothpaste has undergone rigorous testing and meets specific criteria for safety and effectiveness. Irina Kessler, D.D.S., a cosmetic dentist at New York Family Dental Arts, adds that it also means the toothpaste is regularly being re-evaluated to ensure it continues to meet the highest standards. It’s worth noting that toothpaste may not have ADA approval simply because a brand has not applied for it yet.
✔️ Fluoride: Known as the ultimate protector in dental care, the mineral helps prevent tooth decay by strengthening the enamel, according to Dr. Kessler. In fact, toothpaste must contain fluoride to be considered for an ADA Seal of Acceptance. “It promotes remineralization, making teeth more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria and acidic foods,” she explains.
✔️ Abrasive agents: Commonly spot these as calcium carbonate and hydrated silica on ingredient lists. Such abrasives help remove surface stains and dental plaque, which help to clean and whiten teeth. Despite its effectiveness for cleaning, toothpaste with overly abrasive agents may damage enamel. “If a toothpaste claims to whiten, it should contain hydrogen or carbamide peroxide,” according to Dr. Becker.
✔️ Humectants: When toothpaste has a smooth texture, it’s typically thanks to ingredients like glycerol and sorbitol. These ingredients help retain moisture in toothpaste — preventing it from drying out — improve the consistency of toothpaste and enhance its taste, says Dr. Kessler.
✔️ Detergents: Detergents like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) are what create the foaming action that helps clean the teeth. While foaming may give a satisfying feeling during brushing, some people may be sensitive to certain detergents. If you experience irritation, consider a toothpaste without SLS.
✔️ Flavor: Flavoring agents such as mint or fruit extracts are added to improve the taste of toothpaste and enhance the overall brushing experience. “Flavors encourage regular use and make brushing more enjoyable!” says Dr. Kessler.
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