How to Choose the Best Toothpaste for You

Share This Post

Share on facebook
Share on linkedin
Share on twitter
Share on email

While dental professionals recommend a visit to the dentist at least once every six months for a professional teeth cleaning, it goes without saying that arguably just as important to one’s oral health is the brushing and flossing routine that they establish at home. A big part of the brushing routine, obviously, is the toothpaste that you use – but have you ever wondered just what type of toothpaste is best for you?

The best toothpaste?

Believe it or not, the type of toothpaste that you use is largely based on personal preference. However, with that being said, dentists advise using toothpaste with at least 1,000 parts per million fluoride that have been approved by the American Dental Association (ADA). Here’s a look at some different types of toothpaste:

  • Whitening: These toothpastes generally do make the teeth whiter, but only minimally as they’re not packed with strong enough ingredients to make a huge difference.
  • Enamel-restoring: Fluoridated toothpastes actually do work to restore tooth enamel – but only if decay has yet to take place.
  • For sensitive teeth: You can purchase these over-the-counter or get a prescription. Both kinds work, though prescription toothpastes are generally more effective.
  • Aloe vera: The jury is still out on whether or not there’s any big oral health benefits to aloe vera toothpaste versus conventional toothpaste, but it can still be an effective toothpaste as long as it contains fluoride.

Fluoride vs. no fluoride

We’ve already told you that it’s important to be using a toothpaste with at least 1,000 parts per million fluoride. That’s because, contrary to what others say, fluoride helps protect your teeth, prevent decay and sustain tooth enamel. Because of fluoride, it’s estimated that 50 percent of all kids, ages 5 to 17, have never had a cavity. However, it’s worth noting that some people have sensitivity to fluoride. If that’s the case, then a non-fluoride toothpaste is a quality alternative.

Toothpaste for kids

You should begin brushing your child’s teeth as soon as he/she gets their first tooth. However, adult toothpaste can taste yucky to youngsters. That’s where children’s toothpaste comes in, as many contain fluoride to give your child all of their protection needs, but is flavored to make it more appealing for young palates.

Flavored toothpastes

Flavored toothpastes are most synonymous with children’s toothpaste, but as long as they meet the minimum fluoride requirements, they work just as effectively. Many people shy away from them under the assumption that there’s sugars added to give them this flavor, but no American Dental Association-approved toothpastes contain sugar. After all, that would be a bit counter-productive to why it’s necessary to brush your teeth in the first place.

There are a lot of different types of toothpastes to choose from, and as we noted in the beginning, the right one for you will depend a bit on personal preference. Just make sure it meets the minimum fluoride recommendations and that it’s ADA-approved.

For more information on selecting the proper toothpaste, contact Caven Dental today.

More To Explore

You Are Welcome Here.

Schedule your consultation today.