The Sensodyne Total Care Gentle Whitening Toothpaste is actually my favourite toothpaste, because it gives my teeth exactly what they need and keeps them looking great.
Although I don't usually suffer from super sensitive teeth, this range was recommended to me by my dentist, because at my dentist visits I find things like scaling quite painful. Since using this toothpaste I have noticed a dramatic difference in the amount of pain I feel at the dentist, and also in my day-to-day life which I hadn't really noticed before.
It costs a bit more than regular toothpastes, but I find it is definitely worth it. The toothpaste itself is plain white, and tastes less minty than other brands. At first I really noticed this, but it's not a big deal and you get used to its taste very quickly. It also doesn't foam quite as much as other brands, but as it was recommended by my dentist and is so amazing for my teeth I figured foaming doesn't matter.
The whitening benefits of this particular toothpaste are great! I used this product morning and night, and after about a week or two my teeth were looking noticeably whiter and brighter, especially straight after brushing.
I've been using Sensodyne toothpaste for many years, ever since a dentist recommended it to me around 25 years ago for sensitive teeth and receding gums. I don't use it all the time, but intermittently with other tooth whitening toothpastes, and general toothpastes. I purchased gentle whitening because along with sensitivity, I have some staining due to drinking a lot of tea.
The product is the same white paste as every other toothpaste, and has a very mild mint flavour.
I find it works very well for reducing sensitivity. My dentist noted (after I’d been using it for some time) that dabbing it on the teeth and gums after brushing rather than actually brushing it on, is more effective, so I tried that and it is more effective – probably as the bulk of it isn’t spat into the sink!
The product claims to protect against sensitivity, fight cavities and plaque, give fluoride protection, gently whiten teeth, help remove stubborn stains, and have a fresh minty flavour. I can’t speak for the fluoride protection, but I can say with much confidence that it meets the other claims pretty well. It can’t be said that the product is a terrific whitener, especially as there are far superior whitening products available, but in combination with its sensitivity-reducing effects, it does very well and does remove light staining.
At around $8 (I’m sure it was more expensive when I first started buying it), it is good value, especially if used by dabbing on (for pain/sensitivity – brushing is better for stain removal) rather than brushing.
I strongly recommend it for people with sore or sensitive teeth and/or receding gums.
Tips: Use twice daily until pain/sensitivity/staining is gone then you can mix with cheaper toothpastes if economy is a consideration :)