It can be hard to choose the right type of toothpaste for your family. Here is a guide that you can use to help you find the right type of toothpaste for your needs.
Things Every Toothpaste Should Have
ADA Seal
There are laboratory and clinical studies conducted by the ADA before they accept any type of toothpaste. These studies test for effectiveness and safety. Once the toothpaste gets this seal, the seal has to be renewed by the product once every 3 years. You shouldn’t choose one that doesn’t have the seal.
Fluoride
This is very important for toothpaste to have since it will prevent tooth decay. It does it by strengthening the enamel in your teeth and protecting them from acid that starches and sugars cause. All toothpastes that are ADA approved have this.
What is Important for You and Your Family?
Now that we have the two most important things covered, you should choose a toothpaste you’ll use each day based upon your preferences and priorities.
Whiter Teeth
When your teeth are white, your confidence will be boosted and you’ll have a more beautiful smile. There are a lot of whitening toothpastes that you can choose from. Even though a lot of people think bleach will be a whitening toothpaste’s main ingredient, the truth is that they contain chemicals or abrasives to help with polishing teeth and pulling the stains from the surface.
It’s a good idea to search for hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide to help with whitening your teeth. You can also go to your dentist to see what they can do to help you whiten your teeth safely and effectively.
Tartar Control
One of the most important things to having the right oral hygiene is controlling tartar. There’s a bacteria layer on your teeth known as plaque, and this can turn into tartar if you don’t see your dentist regularly. The buildup of tartar can result in gum disease eventually. Chemicals like zinc citrate, pyrophosphates and something known as triclosan, which is an antibiotic which kills bacteria, are known for fighting tartar.
It’s a good idea to choose a toothpaste with several ingredients that fight plaque. But tartar only is able to be removed with a visit to the dentist.
Sensitive Teeth
You shouldn’t let a problem with teeth that are sensitive to stop you from brushing. If you have problems with sensitive teeth to either cold or hot, or your gums that are sensitive, search for a toothpaste that has strontium chloride or potassium nitrate. When you use a toothpaste that is made for people who have sensitive teeth will help with reducing the problem as time goes by. You can also use toothpaste that contains baking soda to reduce your sensitivity.
Great Taste
When you have a toothpaste that tastes good, you are going to be more likely to brush every day. There are a lot of different toothpastes in stores with tastes such as mint, cinnamon, lemon-lime, and others. And they’re not just for kids either; there are great tasting toothpastes for adults too.
All-Natural
If you’re someone who prefers the organic lifestyle, you can find toothpastes that are all-natural without using any chemicals. Just look for the ADA seal, like you would with any other toothpaste.
Smoker’s
If you are a smoker, one of the things that you might want to choose is one made for people who smoke. It will help with bad breath and it’s made specifically for a smoker’s needs.
When you are looking for a toothpaste, think about what you need for your family’s health. Remember that it should have the seal from the ADA and it should have fluoride. The rest is up to you and your personal preferences.
Need to see a dentist?
Come visit Island Coast Dentistry today! We would be happy to help you with all your dental needs. We offer many services that will help you to have a happy and healthier smile, so contact us today!