Quick Details
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Main Whitening Agent | Hydrogen Peroxide, 5% |
| Contains SLS | Yes |
| Contains Fluoride | Yes |
| Results Timeline | Visible in as little as 3 days |
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Pros
- Contains 5% hydrogen peroxide, the highest concentration available over-the-counter.
- Whitens intrinsically (deep stains) and extrinsically (surface stains).
- Dentist-recommended formula for professional-level results at home.
Cons
- High-potency formula may be too strong or cause irritation for some.
- Contains SLS, which may trigger canker sores in sensitive users.
Why We Like It
The Colgate Optic White Pro Series is the primary whitening toothpaste recommended by experts like Dr. Fatima Khan, a dentist in Houston, Texas. Its 5% hydrogen peroxide whitening agent is the real star here. Unlike standard whitening agents that only scrub away stains on the surface of the tooth, hydrogen peroxide actually penetrates the enamel. This allows it to whiten intrinsically (from the inside out) as well as extrinsically.
Dr. Ajit Sachar also backs this choice, noting that it is the strongest professional-level whitening toothpaste currently on the market. “Its 5% hydrogen peroxide content is the most effective bleaching agent in an OTC toothpaste, delivering visible results fast,” she says. However, she advises patients to use it with care, suggesting it be used for short-term whitening boosts rather than indefinite daily use.
Who is it best for?
The Optic White Pro Series is ideal for anyone looking for the fastest possible results and a high-potency formula that includes both hydrogen peroxide and fluoride for cavity protection. It is a favorite for coffee and wine drinkers who need deep-set stain removal.
Who should not get it?
According to Dr. Khan, the formula contains sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), which can be an irritant for people prone to canker sores. Dr. Sachar adds that it may not be ideal for those with extreme tooth sensitivity. She recommends that sensitive users alternate this paste with an enamel-repairing or non-whitening toothpaste periodically to protect the mouth.
Expert Tip for Best Results
To maximize whitening without causing sensitivity, try the “Alternate Method.” Use the Colgate Pro Series for two weeks to reach your desired shade, then switch to a mineral-based or enamel-strengthening toothpaste for a week to allow your gums and enamel to rest.