The Best Fluoride-Free Toothpastes for Whiter, Brighter Teeth

By
Kara Cuzzone
Kara Cuzzone
Kara Cuzzone is a freelance writer with work published in a number of publications including Cosmopolitan and Byrdie.
Byrdie's Editorial Guidelines
Updated on Aug 30, 2021
Fact checked by
Michelle Regalado
Michelle Regalado
Fact checked by Michelle Regalado
on Aug 25, 2021
Michelle Regalado is a lifestyle editor, fact checker, and content strategist.
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Reviewed by
Matt Nejad, DDS
Matt Nejad
Reviewed by Matt Nejad, DDS
on Aug 26, 2021
Matt Nejad, DDS, is an expert biomimetic and esthetic dentist based in Beverly Hills, California
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When it comes to our pearly whites, we don't mess around. We've tried teeth-whitening kits, DIYs—even veneers—that promise to deliver a brighter-looking smile. So, we found it only fair to find out what the deal is with the semi-controversial topic of fluoride-free toothpaste. 

Although research shows that fluoride toothpaste helps prevent tooth decay—in fact, the American Dental Association (ADA) only recommends toothpastes that contain fluoride—many people still prefer to reach for non-fluoride toothpaste for a variety of reasons.

Interested in learning more? Read on for the best fluoride-free toothpastes on the market. 

Best Overall: Schmidt's Activated Charcoal Toothpaste

Schmidt's Activated Charcoal with Wondermint Toothpaste
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This activated charcoal-based formula works to freshen your breath, whiten your teeth, and combat plaque buildup every time you brush. Unlike most other charcoal toothpaste, it's not black, but rather a light grey, and has an enticing minty flavor so you're not left with a bitter aftertaste. It also contains superfood extracts, organic aloe leaf juice, magnolia bark extract, and vitamin E.

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Best Budget: Hello Oral Care Antiplaque + Whitening Fluoride Free Toothpaste

Hello Whitening Fluoride Free Toothpaste
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Hello has thoughtfully formulated this natural toothpaste with well-known ingredients like soothing aloe vera, stevia, and a silica blend that works together in this toothpaste. In addition to being fluoride-free, the paste is free of artificial flavors, dyes, microbeads, parabens, and gluten. Even better? It's vegan and never tested on animals.

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Best Whitening: Tom's of Maine Antiplaque Natural Whitening Toothpaste

Tom's of Maine Antiplaque & Whitening
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Key Ingredients

Glycerin is a naturally occurring compound in the body; in topical skincare, it is derived from plants. It functions to draw water to the skin and continue hydrating it, making it a great ingredient for extreme dryness.

Naturally-derived ingredients like glycerin, peppermint oil, and zinc citrate combine in this plaque-fighting toothpaste from Tom's. Say goodbye to surface stains while simultaneously cleaning the teeth and gums.

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Best Luxury: Marvis Classic Strong Mint Toothpaste

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Imported from Florence, Italy, this toothpaste will make you feel ultra-fancy every time you brush. It's designed to clean and whiten while protecting against tooth decay, tartar, and plaque. Not to mention the chic packaging you can feel proud displaying on your bathroom counter. 

Best Organic: Dr. Bronner's All-One Toothpaste

dr bronners peppermint toothpaste
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Brushing with this toothpaste might feel different at first because it doesn't contain synthetic foaming agents like most traditional toothpaste. Instead, it's made with 70% organic ingredients like coconut oil and stevia. The vegan, cruelty-free formula works to leave your mouth, teeth, and gums fresh and clean.

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Best for Fresh Breath: Jason Healthy Mouth Tartar Control Flouride-Free Toothpaste

Jason Healthy Mouth Tartar Control Flouride-Free Toothpaste
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Tea tree oil is the star ingredient of this fluoride-free option. This formula works to keep the mouth clean and protect against plaque and tooth decay. Beyond keeping your teeth and gums healthy, the formula contains clove and cinnamon oils to keep your breath fresh.

Best Flavor: Aesop Toothpaste

Aesop Toothpaste
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The distinct flavor of this toothpaste definitely sets it apart. The formula combines sea buckthorn, cardamom, and wasabia japonica to leave you with clean, refreshed teeth and gums.

Best Flavor, Runner-Up: Desert Essence Tea Tree Oil Toothpaste

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Desert Essence promises this formula will leave you with that coveted "clean-mouth feeling." The formula discourages the growth of bad-breath causing bacteria as it cleans the teeth. Users also love the flavor of its peppermint essential oil.

Best Natural: Davids Natural Whitening Toothpaste

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This whitening formula contains high-quality natural ingredients that fight plaque and freshen breath. And you can say goodbye to wasted toothpaste thanks to the included tube key which allows you to get every last bit of product out. 

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Best Vegan: Kiss My Face Triple Action Gel Toothpaste

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Key Ingredients

Aloe vera is a naturally derived ingredient known for its soothing and moisturizing properties. The aloe plant's inner gel mucilage (the part that's used in skincare products) is made up of 99.5% water.

In this case, triple-action refers to removing plaque, whitening, and preventing tartar build-up—three essential benefits. It's made with tea tree oil, aloe vera, olive leaf extract, and peppermint, and delivers a cool mint flavor. And a bonus? It's free from triclosan and sodium lauryl sulfate, two chemical ingredients that are often found in other toothpaste. 

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Article Sources
Byrdie takes every opportunity to use high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.

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