Raise your hand if you’re like us and going to the dentist scares you. But as scary as it can be for us patients, think of all the terrified animals who are used in tests for products such as toothpaste.
During those painful tests, experimenters drip substances into animals’ eyes, smear them onto their shaved or scraped skin, or force them to ingest or inhale massive quantities of chemicals—all without any painkillers. Typically, the animals are killed when the tests are over.
Luckily, there are plenty of cruelty-free options available these days to help keep your pearly whites healthy and clean. Here are our favorite brands that make animal-friendly toothpaste:
Hello
Hello carries a wide array of toothpastes, including formulas for sensitive teeth, kids, whitening, and more.
JĀSÖN
We especially love the Sea Fresh anti-plaque and strengthening formula with spearmint as well as grape and parsley extracts.
Desert Essence
Desert Essence is not messing around with its toothpaste selection—it offers so many good options.
Tom’s of Maine
You can trust in Tom. His company has been ahead of the cruelty-free curve since 1970!
Dr. Bronner’s
Dr. Bronner’s keeps your teeth shining with 70 percent organic ingredients. It is also fluoride-free and doesn’t use any artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, or sweeteners.
Dr. Sharp Dentistry
Welcome, Dr. Sharp, because there’s room enough for more than one doctor in the cruelty-free, vegan toothpaste market! Dr. Sharp products are available through QVC, Safeway, Target, and Whole Foods.
And your dentist will surely be disappointed if you don’t finish your oral health routine by flossing. drTung’s Activated Charcoal Vegan Smart Floss has a natural plant wax coating, which helps remove plaque effortlessly while being plastic-free and friendly to bees.
Need more cruelty-free products in your life? Check out our list of cruelty-free deodorants and sunscreens. Wondering whether a product or brand is cruelty-free? Visit our cruelty-free company search page for a quick answer.
Support companies that don’t test on animals. Pledge to go cruelty-free today: