What you need to know
Fluoride is the key ingredient. The NHS advises adults to use toothpaste with at least 1,350ppm fluoride; children can use family toothpaste of 1,350 to 1,500ppm, and children aged 3 and under without decay can use a children's toothpaste with at least 1,000ppm.
Specialist toothpastes can help with particular problems – the Oral Health Foundation says toothpastes containing potassium citrate, potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride help with sensitivity – but they are not a substitute for seeing a dentist about persistent symptoms.
What to look for
- Check the fluoride level (ppm) on the pack – at least 1,350ppm for adults.
- For children: a smear for under-3s and a pea-sized amount for ages 3 to 6.
- Sensitivity toothpastes need continued use to keep working.
- After brushing, spit out but don't rinse.
- See a dentist if sensitivity is severe, lasts weeks or affects one tooth.
Products to consider
Listed alphabetically, not ranked. Features are from the manufacturers’ UK websites. Some links may be affiliate links.
Aquafresh Little Teeth toothpaste (3–5 years)
A children's toothpaste for ages 3 to 5. The NHS recommends a pea-sized amount at this age, with 1,000 to 1,500ppm fluoride –…
Aquafresh Milk Teeth toothpaste (0–2 years)
A toothpaste for babies and toddlers with at least one tooth. The NHS says under-3s should use a smear of toothpaste with at…
Colgate Total Active Prevention Original toothpaste
Colgate's multi-purpose everyday toothpaste, positioned for plaque, gum health and cavity protection. A good fit for people who…
Corsodyl Original toothpaste
An everyday toothpaste aimed at people with bleeding gums. Bleeding gums can be a sign of gum disease, so it's worth mentioning…
Sensodyne Pronamel Daily Protection toothpaste
A toothpaste aimed at people concerned about acid wear from their diet. It won't undo damage, and cutting down on acidic drinks…
Sensodyne Rapid Relief toothpaste
A sensitivity toothpaste marketed for fast relief. The Oral Health Foundation notes that sensitive toothpastes work by blocking…
Sensodyne Repair & Protect toothpaste
A toothpaste for sensitive teeth built around NovaMin. As with any sensitivity toothpaste, you need to keep using it for the…
Sources we used
Checked September 2026. Guidance changes, so always follow the advice of your own dental team. About our sources.