How to Choose the Proper Toothpaste

How do you choose your toothpaste? Taste? Price? What your mom always got?

Choosing a toothpaste is not necessarily a hard decision, but how do you know if it’s the best decision?

Truth be told, everyone’s mouth is unique, and everyone has unique needs. You have to decide what toothpaste works best for you, but these tips might make your decision a little clearer.

Fluoride

Fluoride is the most important ingredient to look for when choosing the right toothpaste for you. Fluoride is a natural mineral that protects your teeth from demineralization (the erosion that happens in your mouth from acid). Not only does it protect from demineralization, but it helps remineralization. I know, we just lost you, too many minerals. Basically it helps protect your teeth and it helps strengthen your teeth. Think of it as a “fluoride fortress.” This fluoride fortress can protect against cavities, protect against tooth decay, and reduce bacteria. Needless to say, this is a crucial ingredient in your toothpaste.

Tartar Control

Many of you might know that tartar is a nasty cousin to plaque that can lead to gum disease if it is not taken care of. Luckily, there are several toothpastes available that can help you keep tartar in check. Tartar control toothpaste contains an antibiotic called triclosan, which aides in killing some of the bacteria in your mouth.

The Sensitive Mouth

For those of you who have trouble with sensitive teeth, it is best to go with a toothpaste that actually says “sensitive.” Although these types of toothpaste tend to be more expensive, they are well worth it if you are having trouble with your teeth. Sensitive toothpaste generally contain potassium nitrate or strontium chloride which will block the receptors in your mouth that translate hot and cold signals into pain. It may take a while for your teeth to notice a difference when you first start using this, but after about 4 weeks, there should be a change in your sensitivity. To maximize pain blocking, Dr. Schleisinger, a clinical associate professor of dentistry at New York University, recommends waiting approximately 20 minutes before rinsing after brushing your teeth.

Although we cannot go to the store with you and suggest the best toothpaste for your mouth, if you follow these guidelines you are sure to be on the right track. And as always, if you are concerned about making the right decision, consult your dentist and we will be sure to lend a hand, or an opinion.

Happy Brushing!

A lot of information in this blog post came from a helpful article by the American Dental Association. To read this article, click here.