Best Overal Toothpaste
Colgate Total Active Prevention Whitening Toothpaste (2-Pack)
ProsWhitening without using baking soda, calcium carbonate, or peroxidesLess than $4 per tubeSubtle flavor that gives you fresh feeling without overpoweringSturdy containerADA accepted ConsNot ideal for those who want a stronger tasting toothpaste Founded in the 1800s, Colgate is by far the oldest toothpaste brand on this list, yet the dental giant continues to perfect its formulas and pump out exciting, new options. Part of Colgate’s Total Active Prevention, along with the line’s toothbrush and mouthwash, this 2025 Men’s Health Grooming Award-winning toothpaste cleans and whitens with the best of them.
However, unlike the whitening pastes Dr. Cash warns about, Colgate Total Active Prevention does not include any harsh peroxides or abrasive baking soda. Instead, it relies on hydrated silica to perform its whitening duties. Silica is a much softer material and more gentle on teeth than those other whitening options, crucially limiting the risk of damaging the enamel.
That being said, stannous fluoride is the formula’s true hero ingredient, as it helps prevent sensitivity, reduce plaque bacteria, fight cavities, and prevent gingivitis. All of which led this toothpaste to leave my teeth shining and mouth feeling refreshed.
Its minty taste is perfectly subtle yet still strong enough to powerful the stankiest of coffee breath. The container is sturdy, while the lid pops off with ease. Plus, you don’t need to overuse it, as this stuff is super concentrated and the freshness lingers in your mouth for just the right amount of time. Not to mention, with each tube costing less than $4, it’s also one of the best value toothpastes.
Read More: Best Mouthwash for Men
Fluoride?YesKey BenefitsAntibacterial, whiteningTasteMintBest Toothpaste Tablets
Duo Energy Toothpaste Tablets
ProsInteresting cinnamon chia taste Plastic-free designGives you a boost of energy, along with cleaning teethIn convient tablet formConsSwitching to tablets can feel awkward at first, takes a learning curveToothpaste tablets have been popping up all over the place lately, and for good reason. They are convenient, easy-to-use, and often pack additional benefits that standard toothpastes can’t. Right now, no toothpaste tablets are better than Duo’s.
If you’re pressed for time, simply pop one of these bad boys into your mouth, chew, and feel it quickly transform into a refreshing and whitening paste for brushing. Plus, the brand’s Energy option contains caffeine and vitamin B12 to give you a mood boost and a burst of energy, ideal for freshening up before a big meeting or date.
Fluoride?NoKey BenefitsEnergy boostingTasteCinnamonAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below
Best Toothpaste for Sensitive Teeth
Sensodyne Fresh Mint Sensitive Toothpaste (2-Pack)
ProsFormulated specifically to be gentle on sensitive teethADA accepted Sulfate freeCons4 oz tube doesn’t last as long as others on this listBland tasteDr. Cash notes that there are many reasons for tooth sensitivity, with one common cause being gum recession and other conditions that affect the root surface of the tooth. This Sensodyne toothpaste tackles that problem with the ingredient potassium nitrate. “The potassium ions work to ‘plug’ the porous areas of your tooth, reducing sensitivity,” he says.
After brushing with this toothpaste, it’s clear how gentle it is on both teeth and gums. This is largely due to the potassium nitrate in its formula, which also works to desensitize nerves inside the tooth. The taste leaves a little to be desired, but it’s certainly not off-putting—just a little bland. Still, it’s approved by the ADA, so you know it’s quality.
Fluoride?YesKey BenefitsTeeth sensitivityFlavorMintBest for Sensitive Gums
Parodontax Complete Protection Toothpaste
ProsFormulated to be gentle on sensitive gumsHelps prevent gum disease with stannous fluorideLeaves a lingering fresh feeling Cons3.4 oz tube is the smallest on this listGum disease is no joke, leading to bleeding gums and potential tooth loss. One of the earliest signs that your gums may be in trouble, according to Dr. Cash, is inflamed gums that look bright red and often bleed. The dentist says that regularly flossing and brushing are the best defense against this issue progressing, especially with a toothpaste like Parodontax Active Gum Repair formulated specifically for these concerns.
Its hero ingredient of stannous fluoride targets gum disease-causing and plaque-producing bacteria, while strengthening the enamel and freshening breath. The texture of this toothpaste is slightly thicker than others I’ve tried, which takes some getting used to, but ultimately it is successful in limiting gum irritation. Not to mention, the container it comes in is completely recyclable.
Fluoride?YesKey BenefitsGum protection, gum sensitivityFlavorMintAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below
Best Fluoride-Free Toothpaste
Tom’s of Maine Antiplaque and Whitening Natural Toothpaste (2-Pack)
ProsFluoride-free for those wanting to try an alternative Devised of natural ingredients Toothpaste tube is 100 percent recyclable Paraben-freeConsMay not prevent cavities as well without fluoride If you suspect that you have a fluoride allergy, Dr. Cash recommends consulting with both your doctor and dentist before making the switch, as fluoride allergies are extremely rare. But if you’ve had this allergy confirmed, or want to try a natural option, Tom’s of Maine is the way to go. It’s loaded with every dental-boosting ingredient you could ask for (outside of fluoride, of course).
There’s calcium carbonate to remove plaque, xylitol to combat tooth decay, and zinc citrate to fight bad breath. This is in addition to skincare favorite, glycerin, which brings a similar hydration to the mouth as it does the skin—ideal for those who suffer from dry mouth. Plus, 10 percent of every Tom’s of Maine sales goes toward supporting organizations that promote better health education and the environment.
Fluoride?NoKey BenefitsAntiplaque, whiteningFlavorPeppermintBest Toothpaste for Enamel Protection
Made by Dentists Professional Enamel Rebuilding Toothpaste (2 Pack)
ProsContains hydroxyapatite to reinforce enamelSafe for sensitive teeth Sulfate freePackaging is recyclable ConsDispenser prone to leakageThink of enamel like your teeth’s offensive line, it’s the protective, outermost layer that takes on any immediate threats to dental health. But once it starts deteriorating, there’s no going back, as you can’t replace enamel. However, you can strengthen and add to it, and that’s exactly what this Made By Dentists toothpaste does.
Led by hydroxyapatite, which is the primary natural mineral of tooth enamel and bone, this toothpaste restores the foundation of tooth enamel. Add in sodium fluoride to prevent cavities and decay, and potassium nitrate to minimize tooth sensitivity, and this paste is a dental care powerhouse.
The toothpaste does tend to leak a bit around where it is dispensed, though it never creeps out of the container itself. While it’s certainly annoying, by the time it starts to noticeably pile up, the tube will shortly run out.
Fluoride?YesKey BenefitsEnamel reinforcing, sensitivityFlavorMintAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below
Sean Zucker is the Grooming and Commerce Editor at Men’s Health. He brings over half a decade of experience covering health, wellness, and lifestyle. When Sean’s not writing about hair products, you can find him running for exercise, or toward the nearest food truck.
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