Don't use charcoal toothpaste and other brushing facts

NBC Select independently determines what we cover and recommend. When you click on or buy through our links, we earn a commission. Learn more.Oral CareThe 13 best toothpastes for clean, healthy teeth in 2026Using toothpaste made with fluoride is the key to cavity-free teeth, dentists say.Updated July 8, 2026, 3:52 PM EDTZoe MalinReporterSkip to table of contentsDentists recommend choosing a toothpaste made with fluoride, a cavity-fighting ingredient, and prioritizing opinions with the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance.Vivian Le for NBCIn this articleOur top picksThe best toothpastes for adults in 2026How I picked the best toothpastesWhat ingredients are in toothpaste?Frequently asked questionsMeet our dentistry expertsWhy trust NBC Select?See 4 MoreChoosing the right toothpaste is an essential part of oral hygiene, but the process can be confusing. All toothpastes clean teeth, but you may also need to address concerns like reducing sensitivity, whitening, and improving gum health.I've been reporting on oral care for years now — at this point I practically have dentists on speed dial. To find the best toothpastes, I talked to dentists and used their guidance to round up options made with fluoride from brands like Crest, Colgate and Sensodyne. Many of the toothpastes we recommend have the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance, and the NBC Select staff also tried a handful of them.Selected.Our top picksBest for all-around protectionCrest Pro-Health Clean Mint Toothpaste$undefined$8.97WalmartLearn moreBest foaming toothpasteColgate Total Active Prevention Plaque Cleanse Whitening Gel Toothpaste$undefined$5.96WalmartLearn moreBest for removing plaqueParodontax Toothpaste for Bleeding Gums$7.50$8.49WalgreensLearn moreBest for sensitive teethSensodyne Fresh Mint Sensitive Protection Toothpaste$undefined$12.47AmazonLearn moreSee 1 MoreRelatedselectselectThe 7 best water flossers that help remove plaque from your teethWant more from NBC Select? Sign...