All toothpastes help remove surface stain through the action of mild abrasives. Whitening toothpastes contain polishing or chemical agents, rather than bleaches, to improve tooth appearance by removing surface stains. They do this through gentle polishing, chemical chelation, or some other non-bleaching action. Several whitening toothpastes that are available over-the-counter have received the ADA Seal of Acceptance, which assures they have been evaluated for safety and effectiveness.
If you decide you would like to use whitening toothpaste to make your smile look brighter, talk to your dentist. He or she can tell you whether this will be effective for you.
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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.