Which Type of Toothpaste Should You Use?

When perusing the oral care aisle of your pharmacy or grocery store, you may have wondered why the number of options for toothpaste was seemingly endless. If you don’t know what to look for, trying to select the right toothpaste can feel overwhelming. At its core, toothpaste is designed to clean your teeth, but some varieties have added benefits, like fighting stains and preventing sensitivity. How can you decide? Read on as a dentist in Alexandria, IN shares some helpful tips on how to choose toothpaste.

What Are the Different Types of Toothpaste?

There are all sorts of toothpastes out there, each promising various advantages for your smile. Some of the most common options are:

Fluoridated Toothpaste

No matter which kind of toothpaste you select, make sure it contains fluoride. This naturally occurring mineral is essential in fighting tooth decay, as it strengthens the enamel of the teeth against acid attacks from plaque and bacteria.

Desensitizing Toothpaste

If your teeth are easily irritated by hot and cold temperatures, consider getting anti-sensitivity toothpaste. It will probably contain strontium chloride or potassium nitrate, two compounds that block pathways to the nerves inside of the teeth. As a result, they reduce painful sensitivity.

Tartar Control Toothpaste

Plaque is constantly forming on the teeth. When it isn’t cleared away by brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar, which can build up and increase the risk of gum disease. Some toothpastes contain antibiotic compounds that combat the bacteria in tartar.

Whitening Toothpaste

Instead of bleach, most whitening toothpastes contain polishing agents that can be abrasive. While these particles can remove stains on the teeth, they also erode the enamel when used every day. Eventually, this leads to sensitivity.

Tips for Choosing the Best Toothpaste

No type of toothpaste is universally the best for everyone. However, here are some tips that can help you narrow your search:

• Check for the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Approval – If an oral healthcare product has this achievement, it has been deemed effective and safe by multiple dental professionals. It also contains fluoride, so you can be sure it will keep your teeth strong and healthy.
• Understand your oral health needs – Whether you’re interested in soothing sensitive teeth or fighting tartar, knowing what to look for on the label can help you identify whether a particular type of toothpaste will suit you.
• Avoid problematic ingredients – Be wary of products that have not earned the ADA Seal of Approval, as they might contain ingredients that could harm your teeth. For example, toothpaste with charcoal has been shown to be abrasive to enamel and can cause lasting damage.  

The right toothpaste can make a huge difference in your oral health, more so than you may have thought. By using the tips outlined in this guide, you can choose a toothpaste that gives you a bright and healthy smile for years to come!

About the Author

Dr. Corey Martinez earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the Indiana University School of Dentistry and has since maintained active memberships in several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association. He greatly enjoys providing personable, friendly dental care to patients of all ages at Martinez Dentistry in Alexandria, IN. He’d love to help you choose the right toothpaste to meet your needs. Get in touch with his office today by calling 765-724-7729.