Choosing toothpaste doesn’t sound like it should be a hard task. But for many of us…it is. The problem is that so many of our patients become overwhelmed with all of the options that they either give up or choose a paste randomly. We are here to help make it a little easier to pick the toothpaste that is right for you! Not all toothpastes are created equal, so here’s our advice on selecting the best paste for your pearly whites!
Rule Number One: ADA Seal of Approval
If you forget everything we tell you in this post, remember this one small piece of advice: pick toothpaste that has the ADA Seal of Approval. This little seal means that the ADA, American Dental Association, has tested the product for safety and effectiveness. Over 300 oral health products carry this seal, so it isn’t hard to find a paste with this seal!
Rule Number Two: Get to Know Your Teeth!
You have to know your teeth in order to pick toothpaste that is right for you. For example, if you have super-sensitive teeth, picking a harsh, whitening toothpaste will probably only make things worse for your sensitivity. To make things easier, we’ve compiled a list of common dental problems and paired them with the best toothpaste to combat them.
- Yellow Teeth:
If you have discolored or stained teeth, you should use a toothpaste with whitening agents. Look for pastes that contain modified silicone abrasives. These abrasives help to break up stains and polish teeth for a whiter smile.
- Cavity Prone Teeth:
If you can’t seem to avoid developing cavities, it’s time to try toothpaste with fluoride. Fluoride works by preventing bacteria that produce acids that eat away at your teeth from sticking to the teeth. Rinsing with a fluoride mouthrinse can also help.
- Sensitive Teeth:
If you have teeth that are sensitive to hot or cold, try a paste with desensitizing ingredients such as strontium chloride or potassium nitrate. You may also want to switch out your toothbrush for one with softer bristles. Sometimes, brushing too hard or with stiff bristles can cause sensitivity or exposed roots.
- Preventing Tartar:
Tartar is a nasty build-up of plaque that only your dentist can scrape away. To help prevent and fight tartar, choose a paste with ingredients like pyrophosphates or zinc citrate. These are awesome tartar-fighting ingredients!
- Natural Products:
If you are wary of chemicals you’ve never heard of, a toothpaste made of natural products may be perfect for you! Natural toothpastes are 100% effective as well. Just make sure that it has an ADA seal of acceptance! If you aren’t sure what type of toothpaste you should be using, ask your dentist for advice. After all, nobody knows your teeth better than your dentist! For more information on the type of toothpaste that is right for you, visit us at Alliance Family Dental or call us today at (910) 868-4664!
Photo Credit: Identity Station