The Ultimate Toothpaste Guide
Shelves are stocked with every kind of toothpaste you can imagine and
then some. Not only are their multiple brands, each brand has toothpaste that claim to solve a different oral problem you may not have even know you had.
Children’s Toothpaste
It’s never too early to get your children in the habit of maintaining their oral health. As soon as teeth breaking through the gum line, it’s time to start brushing them, even when they’re only baby teeth. Most children’s toothpaste available on the market today are designed for children that are 2 years and over. Getting them a toothpaste they like (for example, if it has their favorite animated character on the packaging) will increase the likelihood they’ll use it without resistance.
Fluoride toothpaste is highly recommended for everyone, even children. But until the child becomes a perfect spitter, a fluoride-free toothpaste is recommended. Ingesting high-concentrated fluoride toothpaste can cause a spike of it in the child's body. As spitting out the toothpaste is perfected, the child should then use a pea size amount of fluoride toothpaste each and every time the teeth are brushed.
Natural Toothpaste
Most commercial toothpastes contain a variety of chemicals found in nature, such as triclosan and artificial preservatives. While these may pose no threat in small amounts, many of them have not been studied extensively, nor have their combined effects on the human body been tested. For those who would rather play it safe, a natural toothpaste may be their best choice, but you should still be sure to read the list of ingredients. There is no legal requirement for use of the “all natural” label, which means even products bearing that label may contain questionable ingredients.
Sensitive Teeth
Over time, foods and drinks can wear out the protective enamel layer of teeth. Fluoride is a naturally-occurring mineral that helps to protect the enamel of our teeth from decay and can even reverse the early stages of enamel deterioration. By helping strengthen the enamel on our teeth, fluoride can also help reduce tooth sensitivity to hot and cold, but it’s not always enough. For those who need more help in dealing with their sensitive teeth, there are toothpastes on the market designed to help with that problem, while simultaneously keeping teeth clean and healthy. Look for toothpaste that has a sensitive stamp on it approved by the American Dental Associations (ADA).
Tartar Control
Without regular, efficient brushing, plaque can build up on the surfaces of our teeth and eventually harden into tartar, which is much more difficult to remove. Tartar control toothpastes are specifically designed to prevent tarter buildup. These toothpaste break down the plaque before it has a chance to become tartar. But note that these toothpastes is more a preventative measure designed to prevent tartar from developing and can do little once the plaque has become tartar.
Whitening
For those who want that camera-ready smile, but can’t afford to hire a professional, whitening toothpastes are an option. Many use peroxide as a whitener. Not only is peroxide effective at removing stains from he outer layer of enamel, peroxide can also help prevent gingivitis and periodontal disease. Although whitening toothpaste are effective, they can increase tooth sensitivity if used frequently.
Make sure your choice bears the American Dental Association (ADA) stamp, usually next to the company’s logo. The ADA stamp lets you know that the product meets their standards for safety and efficacy.
If you have concerns about toothpaste or cavity prevention, you need to consult with your dentist as soon as you can. At Fidelity Dental PA, we are dedicated to your oral health. We can provide you with the proper guidance and treatment you need to keep your teeth cavity free.
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