New York University student Karen Wynne was so fascinated by the topic, she wrote “Teeth Whitening: Effective or Marketing Scam?” back in 2009.
According to news network MSNBC, people in search of white teeth spent $1.4 billion on over-the-counter teeth whiteners last year.
Keep in mind that this total doesn’t begin to touch on costs run up on dental bills.
Today’s whitening treatment choices have grown exponentially since the first at-home treatment. Competition continues to be stiff.
This single category ballooned into so many products, and manufacturers have made fortunes catering to men and women dissatisfied with their tooth color.
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What’s In Whitening Mouthwash Products?
If you ‘d like to know what’s in the products you use, a visit to the Made How website can give you insight into typical ingredients used in mouthwash. Here’s what they include in general:
- Flavorings
- Antibacterial agents
- Soap
- Artificial or real flavoring
- Water
- Alcohol (usually up to 20% of the formulation)
Like many products in the oral care family, finding the one that works best for an individual can take some trial and error. In order to save you some time, we’ve narrowed down your selection. Here’s a list of the 10 best whitening mouthwash products.
1. Crest 3D White Luxe Arctic Fresh Multi-Care Whitening Icy Cool Mint Flavor Mouthwash
This Crest brand whitening mouthwash regularly lands at the top of reviews. In addition to working to erase existing stains, Crest’s proprietary formulation is also designed to protect the teeth from stains down the road. Users receive germ-killing benefits to vanquish bad breath as well. Availability is another perk. Find this mouthwash on shelves around the world.
Crest claims that whitening properties for existing stains can kick in as quickly as two days. In keeping with the many line extensions Crest currently markets, the company also recommends pairing this whitening mouthwash with Crest 3D White Arctic toothpaste and an Oral-B brand 3D White Pro-flex brush to achieve the best results.
Ingredients in this mouthwash include alcohol, glycerin, hydrogen peroxide, sodium Hex metaphosphate, Citrate and Saccharin plus citric acid and flavorings. Recommended application to achieve whitening is a 60-second swish. Be sure to use the product morning and night. Just remember to avoid swallowing the rinse for myriad reasons and keep this Crest whitener away from kids.
You’ll find plenty of rave reviews about this Crest whitening mouthwash. This includes celebrity spokesperson Shakira who claims that her white teeth contribute to her success. If you have multiple tooth whiteners in your home, this mouthwash can be purchased as a 3-pack. Unfortunately, this doesn’t result in any savings.
2. Colgate 2-in-1 Whitening Toothpaste Gel and Mouthwash
For those seeking, choosing this Colgate 2-in-1 gel and mouthwash pairing can deliver a unique double hit. This gel and mouthwash does everything but wield a toothbrush in your fight for whiter teeth. This gel/wash gets between crevices to attack hard-to-reach stains while fighting cavities.
Not only that, but the mouthwash delivers a minty “flavor burst” as it fights bad breath. Together, the two product work as a whitening team. What separates this brand from the aforementioned Crest 3D mouthwash is that Colgate is safer for kids as long as they are no younger than 6. However, this doesn’t make this formulation any less toxic if users swallow it.
The reason? While this product is hydrogen peroxide free, it still contains fluoride, glycerin, several types of sodium, sorbitol, hydrated silica and trace amounts of other ingredients.
The main difference between this Colgate product and competitors is that the gel itself acts as a mouthwash. This is how the whitening solution got its name and perhaps why it is so affordable. It serves as both toothpaste and mouthwash and saves both time and money.
If you’ve got kids who are problematic when it comes to grooming because they would rather do anything else but take care of oral hygiene, we’ve got good news: Kids seem to prefer the taste of this product to others. It’s icy and cool, but not so overwhelming. Even the packaging gets high marks from people who want white teeth but dislike dealing with tubes.
3. Bee Naturals Whitening Pre-Brush Oral Rinse
If you’re seeking an all-natural whitening mouthwash and don’t mind paying a higher price, Bee Naturals Whitening Pre-Brush Oral Rinse is for you. The premise behind this formulation is that it took time to acquire those stains and it’s going to take time to get rid of them. Therefore, you’re going to have to be patient with this non-chemical whitening mouthwash.
In addition to a recipe that’s chemical-free, you’ll also notice that there are no sweeteners, colors or preservatives. No animals were used to test this rinse.
The ingredient list is short and sweet:
- Vegetable glycerin
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Potassium sorbate
- Chlorophyll
- Spearmint oil
- Stevia
- Xylitol
Made exclusively in the U.S., Bees acts as a pre-brush oral rinse rather than a post-brush finishing product. Swish 1/2-ounce around your mouth to soak the teeth in whitening solution to prepare the teeth for brushing and/or flossing.
Bee is so confident that users will achieve the whitening results they desire that the company offers a 100-percent money back guarantee. If this natural remedy proves ineffective, get a refund no questions asked.
4. Oral Essentials Whitening Formula Mouthwash
Like Bee, this manufacturer also offers a 100-percent money back guarantee. Be sure to act within 30 days of purchase or you can’t get your money back.
Formulated especially for folks who suffer from sensitivities that preclude using stronger agents, Oral Essentials may prove to be the long-awaited alternative for those who prefer white teeth without the painful delivery system.
Included in this Oral Essentials whitening mouthwash recipe are the following:
- Lemon oil
- Organic aloe vera juice
- Coconut oil
- Dead Sea salt
- Sage oil
All of these ingredients work together to whiten and brighten teeth without added chemicals. For those who travel, access to smaller bottles are also available.
The maker claims that this is the “first daily use whitening formula available on the market” for people with sensitive teeth. This points out the damage hydrogen peroxide can do to enamel if used frequently.
Periodontists testing this oral rinse as it was developed not only vouch for the formulation, but also call attention to the company’s production methods. This Oral Essentials product is made in small batches to ensure superior quality.
If you’re in a rush to see results, be forewarned that this product’s label makes it clear to users that it could take between 30 and 60 days before you notice any change. Oral Essentials scientists believe that gradual is better for those who don’t want to compromise tooth structure for quick results.
5. Lauren Naturals Pulling Coconut Oil
This Coconut Oil Swish was made to serve many purposes. Testimonials by users attest to the product’s effectiveness in removing “years of tea and coffee stains.” Not only that, but it also improves bad breath and fights dry mouth. Virgin coconut oil is the main ingredient of this oral antiseptic.
This product requires some prep before it can be used. If the bottle has been sitting on a shelf for some time, be sure to shake the bottle vigorously. Swish the oil between your teeth for a full 2 to 3 minutes before spitting it out. The manufacturer recommends going over the teeth with a clean brush after rinsing. From there apply toothpaste.
Like other herbal products, Lauren Naturals Pulling Coconut Oil has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However, the company presents itself as an open book. Shoppers are invited to investigate all of the ingredients that it carries.
Brand fans are enthusiastic about results they enjoy. Newcomers are not to panic if the oil separates and shaking vigorously doesn’t reconstitute the ingredients. Some have reported that you may have to heat the bottle gently for a few seconds to integrate the active ingredients. One woman even claims that using Laurel’s Natural Coconut Oil cured her TMJ.
6. Rembrandt Deeply White Whitening Mouthwash with Fluoride
This pricey mouthwash claims to restore enamel to its former glory while vanquishing stains. This is thanks to a proprietary formulation that relies upon rapid-release liquid hydrogen peroxide that starts working on contact to penetrate the deepest stains on teeth. This is even true for those that have acquired over long periods of time.
Other benefits include a minty flavor and halitosis-fighting properties. Since Rembrandt mouthwash offers enamel restoration perks, regular use can keep teeth from acquiring new stains since it works to seal enamel.
The company is known for being the first to market a product that pairs stain removal with strengthening and restoration properties. The active ingredients include:
- Water
- Sorbitol
- Propylene glycol
- Hydrogen peroxide
- PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil
- Flavor
- Sodium phosphate
- Disodium phosphate
- Poloxamer 407
- Sodium saccharin
- Calcium disodium EDTA
This product is recommended only for children over the age of 12. The manufacturer suggests a two-time-per-day rinse for a full minute. Users are also to abstain from eating or drinking for 30 minutes afterward. This allows the ingredients to work properly. For consumers who have tried many products to no avail, some consider Rembrandt to be a miracle worker.
Availability could be a problem despite the daunting price. This is because because this whitening product isn’t carried by every online or retail establishment. Furthermore, you’ll have to apply due diligence to find it. Some online retailers are sold out and give no indication if or when they will stock it.
7. Dr. Katz’s TheraBrite Plus Ultra Whitening Oral Rinse
Ever wonder whether personality can drive the sale of consumables? According to marketing experts, it can. And this premise is supported by the popularity of Dr. Katz’s TheraBrite Plus Ultra Whitening Oral Rinse.
His face is on the package alongside his assurance that “Having a bright smile shouldn’t hurt.” This credentialed dentist stands behind his mouthwash formula and believes that the power of whitening can only be found if activated chlorine dioxide is the main ingredient.
Dr. Katz claims that his product is “perfect for sensitive teeth.” This has been a long-standing issue for consumers suffering from nerve exposure and conditions that can make most traditional whitening treatments so painful.
In addition to activated chlorine dioxide, this whitening mouthwash includes minerals and xylitol. Users report reduced plaque and tartar accumulation due to these ingredients. This of course only occurs once you rinse as a daily routine.
Furthermore, alcohol, artificial flavoring and colors are not used in this product. Some people add a hint of cinnamon to add more flavor. Here are the active ingredients:
- Water
- Xylitol
- PEG 40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
- Sodium Citrate
- Zinc Gluconate
- Oxyd-8
- Natural flavors
- Tetrasodium EDTA
- Sodium Bicarbonat
- Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil
- Citric Acid
For those with dietary restrictions, Dr. Katz has you covered. This product meets the requirements of vegans. It’s gluten free and Kosher. Add Dr. Katz’s money-back guarantee for a risk-free trial.
8. Periogen Rinse for Complete Oral Health
This product was named 2021’s Best Dental Treatment. Periogen Rinse is dentist-recommended for patients who want whiter teeth in addition to enamel-repair benefits. This product works by fighting gum disease and removing tartar.
The maker further claims that Periogen is the only product in the world that guarantees tartar removal. This is a lofty claim backed by clinical trials. Using this mouthwash will not only whiten your teeth, but will also help restore removed enamel.
Periogen dental authorities have used this formulation on teeth, dental implants and orthodontic appliances. In each case, stains and discoloration were reduced or eliminated.
This outcome tends to be common when consumers try to whiten their teeth. Not only that, but discolored implants and fixtures don’t always respond to typical whitening treatments like this product. Therefore, if you have crowns, implants or dentures, this formula could succeed where others have failed.
In addition to improved tooth color, you won’t be punished at the cash register. This concentrated product may be just 3-ounces in size but when mixed with the proper ratio of water, it produces 3 gallons of whitening mouthwash bringing the per ounce cost down to about 8 cents. How to care for your teeth with Periogen? Simply wet your toothbrush with this agent and scrub your teeth and then follow up with a regular brushing with paste or gel. You can also swish with it after you apply it directly to your teeth.
Relatively few ingredients are used to make this product:
- Sodium Tripolyphosphate
- Tetrapotassium Pyrophosphate
- Sodium Bicarbonate
- Citric Acid
- Sodium Fluoride
This product is safe for children over the age of 6. According to the manufacturer, users can expect to see results even if Periogen is only used once daily. This is a bonus for those who are in a rush to see results.
9. Dr. Rudy’s Smile Pro 24-Hour Rinse
Dr. Rudy’s Smile Pro 24-Hour Oral Care Rinse Kit is definitely a top 10 on our list. Benefits consumers receive from this product include the following:
- Cavity prevention
- Gum health
- Dry mouth relief
- Whiter teeth
Not only that, but this product doesn’t carry any GMOs. Produced by a laboratory that’s been around for 20 years, this company remains dedicated to stringent testing before marketing. This product joins a long list of other dental care products produced by Dr. Rudy, each which have garnered fans over those two decades.
Neither alcohol nor peroxide are used in this product. The ingredient that’s the prime delivery system for whitening is Halisan. This includes a mixture of agents that include Xylitol, an American Dental Association recommendation for combatting tooth decay.
This whitening mouthwash is relatively new to the company’s product line. Therefore, it hasn’t been around long enough to engender a sweeping number of recommendations or reviews. For those willing to try, this mouthwash is off to an enthusiastic start.
Users also report no pain in sensitive tooth and gum areas. Furthermore, it includes a distinct flavor that leaves behind no annoying aftertaste. Testaments to the mouthwash’s ability to remove stains and the fact that no alcohol is used to make this rinse have been major selling points. This is in line with everything that Dr. Rudy introduces.
10. Siam-Mana Group Bamboo Mild Mouthwash for Adults and Kids
The Siam-Mana Group has come up with an exotic mouthwash that includes bamboo properties in the formulation. The manufacturer insists that Bamboo Mild is safe and effective when used by children.
Bamboo extract is the key ingredient in this product. Producers insist that one can see noticeable results after just 30 seconds of use. Even for those with tough stains, there are noticeable effects within a short time. Bamboo Mild freshens breath and is extremely gentle. Skin and gum areas within the oral cavity aren’t subjected to stinging, burning or discomfort.
What types of stains does this product tackle? According to the maker, no food or beverage assault is too powerful to withstand this product. If you’re seeking a solution to your stained teeth that haven’t seen results from other products, this may be the product for you.
To use Bamboo Mild, shake the bottle to mix the ingredients thoroughly. After, brush your teeth with the paste or gel of your choice. From there measure a quarter of a cap of this mouthwash before swishing. Be sure to swish for at least 30 seconds.
Don’t eat or drink anything for a few minutes after you’ve rinsed. If so, you could compromise the whitening benefits.
11. Listerine Whitening Plus Restoring Fluoride Rinse
This Listerine product joins a larger family of Listerine whitening mouthwashes. If you find that there are more benefits to using the latest iteration of a product, you’ll want to try this one. While the price for this formula can be twice of similar products, it gets the job done just that much better.
Listerine has an impressive reputation. Expect benefits such as stronger tooth enamel and fresh breath. Active and inactive ingredients include the following:
- Sodium Fluoride
- Water
- Alcohol
- Sorbitol Solution
- Hydrogen Peroxide
- Castor Oil
- Flavors
- Poloxamer 407
- Sodium Saccharin
- Phosphoric Acid
- Disodium Phosphate
- Sucralose
Children under the age of 12 should not use this product. Listerine suggests first brushing the teeth with paste or gel and then swishing at least 2 teaspoons. Be sure to swish for a minimum of 1 minute.
This brand claims of making your teeth two shades whiter and two times stronger within a relatively short amount of time. If you have yet to find a solution to your discoloration problems, spending $14 for a bottle of this familiar brand of whitening mouthwash is worth a shot.
12. Essential Oxygen Organic Brushing Rinse Toothpaste Mouthwash
If you have a tooth or gum issues, this mouthwash is most likely what you need. This includes removing stains and discoloration as well as combating tooth sensitivity. Not only that, but it also combats bad breath and even painful canker sores.
This product doesn’t contain alcohol, glycerin, fluoride or sodium laurel sulfate, making it a clean, organic formula. This can go a long way when preventing serious gum and tooth problems. And at the same time it whitens your teeth. No animals were involved in the testing of this mouthwash. Vegans seeking to avoid animal by-products love it and it’s gluten- and BPA-free.
When compared to the price of other natural and holistic whitening mouthwashes, this one wins by far. Furthermore, all of the ingredients are most likely familiar:
- Purified Water
- Aloe Vera
- Hydrogen Peroxide (food-grade) plus Peppermint
- Rosemary
- Leaf
- Lemon
- Clove
- Cinnamon oils
- Eucalyptus
You may have noticed that Essential Oxygen refers to their product as a brushing rinse rather than a whitening mouthwash. This means that if it’s used as a paste or gel substitute, your teeth receive even more benefits than the average mouthwash. Essentially, you’re receiving toothpaste and mouthwash all in one.
To follow manufacturer’s suggested use directions, shake the bottle and place about ½-oz. directly onto your teeth first thing in the morning. Afterwards, brush with a clean toothbrush and follow up with another mouthful of rinse if needed. Doing so a second time can especially help with bad breath.
Conclusion
I hope this list of the best whitening mouthwash products has been of help to you. If you see one that’s not here and needs to be, let us know. We love receiving comments from our readers.