13 Best Whitening Mouthwashes for That Sparkling Smile

Written by Shebna V, Health & Fitness Coach
Updated on Mar 27, 2024
Best Whitening Mouthwashes for That Sparkling Smile
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When it comes to dental hygiene, having a sparkling white smile is a top priority. But what if you could take your dental hygiene routine to the next level? Enter whitening mouthwash, which offers more than just a deep clean. With its powerful ingredients, stain-removing properties, and easy application, it's no wonder why so many are turning to the best whitening mouthwash. 

Laying down the difference between traditional and whitening mouthwashes, our contributor Dr. Karen Conn, a board-certified orthodontist and co-owner - Bryn Mawr Orthodontics, says, “Traditional mouthwashes are primarily used to freshen breath and reduce plaque and bacteria. Whitening mouthwashes, on the other hand, are specifically designed to whiten teeth.”

A bright, white smile can be extremely important – not only does it serve as a sign of good dental health but it also shows that you're confident. A whitening mouthwash makes a practical addition to daily oral care as it has the power to effectively remove stains and improve the teeth's radiance over time. It is easily paired with your brushing routine and can add an extra layer of stain-fighting for a truly dazzling smile.

"Whitening mouth rinses keep everything fresher and brighter longer, and they preserve your whitening stride," says board-certified dentist Dr. Rhonda Kalasho.

This innovative oral hygiene product can help you achieve a sparkling, healthy smile without the hassle of regular teeth whitening treatments. Here are the 11 best mouthwashes for whitening that can help you achieve the perfect smile.

13 Best Whitening Mouthwashes

Crest Pro-Health Advanced Mouthwash, is the perfect choice for freshening your breath and protecting your oral health. Formulated with fluoride and Crest's Pro-Health Advanced technology, this alcohol-free mouthwash is designed to help prevent cavities, strengthen enamel, and reduce plaque and gingivitis for a healthier smile. Plus, the extra whitening and energizing mint flavor provide an extra boost of cleanliness and freshness, leaving your mouth feeling energized and refreshed. With regular use, you'll surely see a brighter and healthier smile.

Pros
  • Alcohol-free
  • Enamel safe
  • Prevents cavities
  • Gentle foaming action
  • Refreshing mint flavor
  • Great for daily use
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Poor packaging
  • Dentist-Recommended

    ACT Whitening Anticavity Fluoride Mouthwash

    ACT Whitening Anticavity Fluoride Mouthwash
  • ACT Whitening + Anticavity Fluoride Mouthwash is a powerful solution for your oral health. It helps whiten teeth, fight cavities, and protect against plaque buildup. Its patented formula is clinically proven to whiten teeth in 7 days, and its fluoride-infused formula helps reduce the risk of cavities. With regular use, ACT Whitening + Anticavity Fluoride Mouthwash can help strengthen and protect teeth, leaving you with a brighter, healthier smile. You can be sure to get your confidence back with the power of this teeth-whitening mouthwash.

    Pros
    • Dentist-recommended
    • No alcohol
    • Dye-free
    • Clean mint flavor
    • Strengthens enamel
    • Removes surface stains
    Cons
    • Leaves a foam film
    • Thicker liquid
  • Great For Daily Use

    Colgate Optic White Whitening Mouthwash

    Colgate Optic White Whitening Mouthwash
  • Colgate Optic White Whitening Mouthwash is the perfect choice for those looking for a brighter and whiter smile. Formulated with hydrogen peroxide and a whitening complex, this mouthwash is proven to whiten teeth up to four shades in two weeks, while helping to protect against cavities and fight bad breath. It also provides a refreshing minty flavor with a cool aftertaste that leaves your mouth feeling clean and fresh.

    Pros
    • Alcohol-free
    • Enamel safe
    • Freshens breath
    • Prevents stains
    • Icy fresh mint flavor
    • Great for daily use
    Cons
    • Poor packaging
    • Costly
  • Climate-Pledge Friendly

    Essential Oxygen BR Rinse Organic Mouthwash

    Essential Oxygen BR Rinse Organic Mouthwash
  • Essential Oxygen BR Certified Organic Brushing Rinse is an all-natural and organic mouthwash that works to freshen breath, remove plaque, and reduce tartar. This natural mouthwash has a delicious taste and feel, making it a great choice for daily oral care. It helps to soothe and heal gum inflammation, reduce cavities, and eliminate bad breath. It's free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors, and contains antioxidant-rich ingredients that are gentle on the teeth and gums. Use daily for a brighter, whiter, healthier smile.

    Pros
    • Climate pledge friendly
    • Dentist recommended
    • Vegan
    • Non-GMO project verified
    • Alcohol and SLS free
    • BPA free packaging
    Cons
    • Overpowering flavor
    • Overpriced
  • Lumineux Teeth Whitening Mouthwash

    Lumineux Teeth Whitening Mouthwash
  • Lumineux Teeth Whitening Mouthwash is the perfect solution for a brighter, whiter smile. This powerful, yet gentle formula contains a blend of natural ingredients that help to reduce surface stains and yellowing, while keeping your teeth and gums healthy. With regular use, this mouthwash will help to improve the overall appearance of your teeth, giving you a brighter, more attractive smile. It's also free of abrasive detergents, artificial dyes, and parabens, so you can feel confident that your smile is in good hands. Start feeling confident in your smile with this whitening mouthwash.

    Pros
    • Climate pledge friendly
    • Certified non-toxic
    • Dentist formulated
    • No alcohol
    • No fluoride
    • SLS free
    Cons
    • May cause sensitivity
    • Costly
  • Affordable

    Amazon Basics Whitening Anticavity Mouthwash

    Amazon Basics Whitening Anticavity Mouthwash
  • Amazon Basics Whitening Anticavity Mouthwash is a great way to keep your mouth feeling refreshed and your smile looking its best. This powerful mouthwash uses a special whitening formula to help remove surface stains and lift away plaque, which helps to reduce the risk of tooth decay and cavities. The gentle, minty taste freshens your breath while the special blend of ingredients works to help protect your teeth and gums. This mouthwash is alcohol-free and sugar-free, so you can enjoy it without the worry of damaging your teeth.

    Pros
    • Multi-benefit rinse
    • Removes surface stains
    • Prevents dental cavities
    • Fresh mint flavor
    • Perfect for morning and night use
    • Affordable
    Cons
    • Does not taste best
    • Small size
  • Best Alcohol-free Formulation

    Crest Glamorous White Multi-care Whitening Mouthwash

    Crest Glamorous White Multi-care Whitening Mouthwash
  • Crest 3D White Glamorous White Mouthwash is the perfect solution for keeping your mouth clean and healthy. This gentle mouthwash is formulated with advanced whitening technology that helps to remove surface stains and restore your natural whiteness. It also provides a refreshingly clean feeling, leaving your mouth feeling fresh and revitalized. The minty flavor helps to freshen your breath and makes your mouth feel great all day long. With regular use, Crest 3D White Glamorous White Mouthwash will help to protect your teeth and gums from plaque and tartar buildup. You can now get the beautiful white smile you’ve always wanted with this teeth-whitening mouthwash.

    Pros
    • Alcohol-free
    • No fluoride
    • Safe to use
    • Kills bad breath germs
    • Instant results
    • Can be used twice daily
    Cons
    • Poor packaging
    • Not a great flavor
  • Supersmile Whitening Pre-rinse

    Supersmile Whitening Pre-rinse
  • Supersmile Whitening Pre-rinse is a revolutionary whitening solution that helps to remove stains and brighten teeth in just minutes. It has a unique formula that uses a combination of natural ingredients to gently and effectively whiten your teeth. It contains a unique blend of natural whitening agents, including baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and citric acid, as well as essential oils and other natural ingredients effective in brightening and whitening teeth. With regular use, Supersmile Whitening Pre-Rinse will help to keep your teeth looking their whitest and brightest. Not only is it easy to use, but it’s also safe on enamel and gentle on gums. For a brighter, whiter smile, try it today!

    Pros
    • Clinically-proven
    • No alcohol
    • Anti-germicidal
    • No animal by-products
    • Paraben-free
    • No SLS
    Cons
    • Not a great flavor
    • Expensive
  • Best for Bad Breath

    Listerine Healthy White Anticavity Fluoride Mouthwash

    Listerine Healthy White Anticavity Fluoride Mouthwash
  • Listerine Healthy White Mouth Rinse is the perfect solution for brightening your teeth and restoring your smile. This fluoride mouth rinse helps to reduce stains caused by food, drinks, and tobacco while it strengthens enamel and prevents cavities. With its refreshing mint flavor, it leaves your mouth feeling naturally clean and healthy. The fluoride in the rinse helps to prevent decay while the whitening agent helps to restore the natural whiteness of your teeth. With regular use, you can be sure that your smile will be brighter and healthier. Try this whitening mouthwash today for a whiter, brighter smile.

    Pros
    • Dentist recommended
    • Safe to use
    • Removes stains
    • Kills bad breath germs
    • Perfect for daily use
    • Suitable for everyone
    Cons
    • Limited availability
    • No instant result
  • Best Vegan Formulation

    Dr. Brite Natural Whitening Mouthwash

    Dr. Brite Natural Whitening Mouthwash
  • Dr. Brite Natural Whitening Mouthwash is a unique, all-natural solution for freshened breath and improved oral hygiene. This one-of-a-kind formula contains powerful natural ingredients that work to whiten teeth and remove plaque. The mouthwash also helps to reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease, while freshening breath with a pleasant minty flavor. With regular use, you can achieve a whiter, brighter smile and improved overall oral health. Give your mouth the natural whitening treatment it deserves with it.

    Pros
    • Doctor formulated
    • Vegan
    • Cruelty-free
    • Alcohol-free
    • No gluten
    • Phthalate-free
    Cons
    • Small size
    • Costly
  • Best Sugar-free Formulation

    Desert Essence Tea Tree Oil Whitening Plus Mouthwash

    Desert Essence Tea Tree Oil Whitening Plus Mouthwash
  • Desert Essence Natural Tea Tree Oil Whitening Plus Mouthwash is an all-natural and effective mouthwash that helps to reduce plaque, freshen breath, and whiten teeth. It contains natural tea tree oil, which has been used for centuries to promote oral health. This mouthwash also contains aloe vera, which helps to soothe and protect the mouth and gums. The natural peppermint flavor provides a refreshing and pleasant taste, while the added xylitol helps to reduce bacteria in the mouth. Use it daily to help keep your mouth feeling healthy and looking bright.

    Pros
    • Vegan
    • Cruelty-free
    • No gluten
    • Paraben free
    • Alcohol-free
    • Sugar-free
    Cons
    • Expensive
    • Not a great taste
  • SNOW ARTIC FOREST THE WHITENING MOUTHWASH

    SNOW ARTIC FOREST THE WHITENING MOUTHWASH
  • Indulge in the confidence-boosting freshness that this whitening mouthwash from SNOW has to offer. The formula is free from alcohol and is enriched with calming aloe to restore your bright smile while also taking gentle care of your gums. You can bid goodbye to bad breath as this mouthwash also eliminates any odor, unveiling minty freshness in just 60 seconds. Rest assured that your oral hygiene routine will never be the same again, and embrace your newfound smile

    Pros
    • Gentle formula
    • Suitable for sensitive gums
    • Long-lasting freshness
    • Convenient
    • Pleasant peppermint flavor
    Cons
    • Expensive
  • Best for Sensitive Teeth And Gums

    THE NATURAL DENTIST HEALTHY WHITE Rinse

    THE NATURAL DENTIST HEALTHY WHITE Rinse
  • Upgrade your oral health and uncover a naturally radiant smile by adding this step to your dental routine. Use this antiplaque rinse before brushing your teeth and experience its gentle yet effective power when it comes to getting rid of teeth stains – it contains no bleach or peroxides! Additionally, it is free from alcohol, battles plaque, reduces the risk of gingivitis, and maintains a healthy oral microbiome. Plus it has a potent minty freshness that counteracts bad breath.

    Pros
    • Natural whitening properties
    • Contains no chemicals
    • Doesn’t cause dry mouth
    • Longlasting freshness
    • Suitable for sensitive teeth and gums
    Cons
    • Has a very strong taste

    Now that we’ve gone over some of the best whitening mouthwashes, let's understand how you can make a more informed decision.

    How to Choose the Best Whitening Mouthwash?

    To help you make the right decision, here are some factors to consider and choose the best whitening mouthwash for you.

    1. Ingredients: When choosing a whitening mouthwash, make sure to look for natural, non-toxic ingredients. Some of the most common ingredients in whitening mouthwashes include hydrogen peroxide, sodium bicarbonate, and citric acid. Avoid anything containing bleaching agents or alcohol. Talking about such ingredients, our contributor Dr. Karen Conn shares, “Whitening mouthwashes typically contain bleaching agents, such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. While these may be considered harmful, such ingredients can be effective at removing surface stains and whitening teeth slightly.”
    2. Use: Consider the frequency of use for the whitening mouthwash. Most teeth-whitening mouthwashes need to be used twice a day for the best results. Be sure to check the label to determine the proper frequency and duration of use for your particular product.
    3. Cost: The best teeth whitening mouthwashes vary widely in price. Choose one that fits your budget but still provides the results you’re looking for.
    4. Cavity Protection: It is vital that you consider cavity protection while purchasing a whitening mouthwash. This way, you aren't just achieving a bright smile, but also protecting your teeth from possible enamel damage and maintaining optimal oral health.
    5. Antibacterial Properties: A good mouthwash won't just brighten your pearly white but will also fight off any pesky bacteria that are present in your mouth. This will help you to maintain a healthy mouth, fresh breath, and happy gums.
    6. Teeth Sensitivity: You must consider teeth sensitivity when you choose a whitening mouthwash because you need to ensure that you don't end up with any discomfort or pain, especially if your teeth are already sensitive. This way, you can get the benefits of whitening without any hassle.
    7. Reviews: Before selecting a whitening mouthwash, take the time to read what others have to say about it. This can give you a good idea of the effectiveness of the product.

    With the choice of the right product and the right instructions, you can rest assured to have a brighter, whiter smile.

    Benefits of Using a Whitening Mouthwash

    Using a whitening mouthwash can provide your pearly whites with a few benefits:

    1. A Bright Smile

    The most obvious perk is that it will help lighten the shade of your teeth. It acts as a mini touch-up for your smile, aiding in the reduction of surface stains over time.

    2. Eliminates Surface Stains

    If you regularly consume coffee, tea, red wine, and other colorful foods, it can sometimes leave marks on your teeth. Whitening mouthwash gently works to break down these surface stains, giving your teeth a bright and clean appearance.

    3. Convenience And Ease

    Unlike other fancy whitening treatments that involve trays, gels, and all sorts of complicated steps to be followed, mouthwash is incredibly easy to use. All you have to do is swish it around in your mouth for about a minute and spit it out. 

    4. Maintains Oral Hygiene

    The majority of whitening mouthwashes contain fluoride, which acts like a superhero for your teeth. It helps prevent cavities and keeps your tooth enamel healthy. So by using this product, you aren't just getting whitening benefits but also boosting your overall dental health.

    5. Freshens Your Breath

    Most of these mouthwashes come with fresh, minty flavors, which enhance the experience. They not only help with whitening but also leave your breath feeling cool and refreshed.

    You need to keep in mind that some individuals might experience tooth sensitivity while using teeth whitening mouthwash, especially if it's on the stronger side. Always follow the instructions and don't go overboard.

    How Does a Whitening Mouthwash Work?

    Whitening mouthwash acts as a savior for your teeth - it aims to make them appear much more whiter and radiant-looking. It is typically formulated with active ingredients like hydrogen peroxide that gently break down any surface stains present on the teeth that may be caused by things like coffee and tea. When you swish it around in your mouth, the ingredients work to lift away those stains from your teeth over time. 

    However, you need to understand that while it may help you to get rid of stains that are on the surface of your teeth, it might not take care of deeper discoloration. You need to use it consistently while also remembering to be careful not to overdo it, as this may lead to irritation or sensitivity.

    How to Use a Whitening Mouthwash

    Here's how you can use the best mouthwash for whitening in 6 easy steps:

    1. Brush Your Teeth: Start off by brushing your teeth with your regular toothpaste, clean them properly.

    2. Pour And Swish: Measure the suggested portion of whitening mouthwash and pour it into your mouth. Swish it around for about 30 seconds. Make sure that it reaches every corner.

    3. Spit it Out: After you're done swishing, spit out the remaining mouthwash into the sink. Be careful not to swallow it.

    4. Give it Some Time: Wait for about 30 minutes before you eat or drink anything. This allows the whitening ingredients to do their work.

    5. Use it Regularly: Follow the instructions on the bottle to know how frequently you need to use the mouthwash. Typically, it can be used once or twice a day.

    6. Be Patient: To actually see results, it might take a couple of weeks of consistent usage. So, be patient and stick to the routine.

    By following these steps, you'll be on your way to getting a brighter smile in no time!

    Whitening Mouthwash Vs Whitening Toothpaste

    Think of whitening toothpaste as regular toothpaste but with a stain-fighting boost. It has the power to scrub away surface stains, but it may not work to get rid of deep discoloration.

    On the other hand, whitening mouthwash can be swished like a magic brightening potion in your mouth! It has the power to lighten up surface stains and provide you with fresh and pleasant breath. However, it doesn't have any deep cleansing properties.

    To take care of more serious stains, you need to consult with your dental hygienist. They will use more enhanced methods to make your smile shine. And, if your teeth are sensitive, ask a dental professional first before using any whitening products!

    Whitening mouthwash is an effective and convenient way to help whiten teeth and improve overall oral health. It is safe to use and helps to reduce bad breath and plaque buildup. With regular use, whitening mouthwash can help to restore the natural whiteness of teeth, providing a brighter and healthier smile. Using the best whitening mouthwash is a great way to get a brighter, whiter smile. It can help remove surface stains caused by food and drinks, and leave your mouth feeling fresh and clean. With regular use of any of our top-rated products, you can see a noticeable difference in the brightness of your teeth, and your overall oral health can improve. With so many great benefits, it's clear that these products are excellent choices for anyone looking to brighten their smile.

    Contributor: Dr. Karen Conn, Board-certified Orthodontist and Co-owner - Bryn Mawr Orthodontics.

    FAQ's

    Does whitening mouthwash actually work?
    Whitening mouthwash can be a beneficial tool not only for whitening your teeth but also improving your overall oral health. While it can help to reduce surface stains, the results are likely to be minimal compared to professional whitening treatments. Therefore, it is important to practice good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing regularly, to achieve optimal results.
    How can I whiten my teeth quickly?
    Using natural teeth-whitening methods such as brushing with baking soda, using hydrogen peroxide, and eating crunchy fruits and vegetables can help whiten your teeth quickly and safely. You can also use over-the-counter whitening products, but be sure to read the instructions carefully and follow them exactly for best results. Additionally, it's important to maintain good oral hygiene habits such as brushing and flossing your teeth regularly to keep your teeth looking their best.
    Can yellow teeth become white again?
    Yellow teeth can become white again. However, the results will vary depending on the severity of the discoloration and the approach taken. Choosing the right whitening option for you depends on factors such as the severity of the discoloration, your budget, and the desired results.d dental hygiene, whitening products, and professional teeth whitening treatments, it is possible to achieve whiter teeth.
    How long should you swish mouthwash?
    Mouthwash is typically swished for about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
    How often should I use mouthwash?
    You can use mouthwash once or twice a day after brushing and flossing.
    Should I use a whitening mouthwash before or after brushing my teeth?
    To maximize its effectiveness, it’s recommended that you use a whitening mouthwash after you’re done brushing your teeth.
    Can I use mouthwash as a substitute for brushing my teeth?
    Mouthwash is best used in combination with your regular hygiene practices and is not to be used as a substitute for brushing your teeth.
    What is the fastest way to brighten your teeth?
    Professional teeth whitening treatments that are performed by a dentist are one of the fastest ways to get bright teeth.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Our in-house health & fitness expert, Shebna, suggests using whitening mouthwashes to prevent plaque buildup, reduce cavities, and whiten teeth. She takes proper care of oral hygiene and keeps experimenting with new products to see what suits her best. After trying out the products for a couple of weeks, she noticed that ACT Whitening Anticavity Fluoride Mouthwash was the best. This dentist-recommended mouthwash helps strengthen enamel, reduce the risk of cavities, and whiten teeth in a week. Additionally, its pleasant mint flavor will leave you feeling fresh all day long.

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
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    Shebna V
    Health & Fitness Coach

    Shebna is a content creator with an experience of over 6 years and likes to delve into all things health and fit More