Choosing a type of toothpaste for your family can be confusing with all the different types of toothpaste available today. Understanding how different types of toothpastes work and what ingredients to look for can help you when sorting through the numerous options on store shelves.
Most toothpaste contains fluoride, and with good reason: Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and fights cavities and tooth decay. The American Dental Association recommends brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Almost without exception, everyone should use fluoride toothpaste. There are very rare cases of people experiencing an allergic reaction to fluoride, but the majority of people of all ages will benefit from fluoride.
Some types of toothpaste fulfill a specific need or desire, such as whitening toothpaste or toothpaste for sensitive teeth. Whitening toothpaste usually contains abrasives that scrub stains away, rather than bleach or other whitening agents. According to WebMD, studies have found that these toothpastes are gentle enough for everyday use and do not harm tooth enamel.
Toothpaste that is said to be for people with sensitive teeth usually contains ingredients like strontium chloride or potassium nitrate, which block nerve pathways. Regular use of a “sensitive teeth” toothpaste is necessary to reduce sensitivity or pain.
Some toothpaste brands claim that they control tartar or plaque. Removing plaque is a basic goal every time you brush your teeth, so what does it mean for toothpaste to specifically be labeled as “tartar control” toothpaste? Tartar is plaque that has hardened, and it has to be scraped off with special dental instruments. Tartar control toothpaste usually contains chemicals that are antibacterial. By killing bacteria, the chance of plaque and eventual tartar formation is reduced when brushing with this type of toothpaste.
When choosing a brand of toothpaste that makes any type of specific claim, look for the ADA seal on the label. The ADA seal means that the ADA has approved the claims the manufacture of the toothpaste is making on the label.
Toothpaste that is advertised as “natural” usually contains herbal ingredients that are said to be healthier or gentler. These toothpastes often have not been proven to be safe or effective and many do not contain fluoride. Always check labels before buying any toothpaste.
Remember that fluoride does not fight bacteria; it strengthens enamel, which reduces the chance of cavities. Fluoride is important, but it is also important to brush correctly and regularly to clean your teeth and remove food particles and bacteria that can lead to plaque and gum disease. You should also floss your teeth at least once a day to remove food particles between teeth that a toothbrush can’t reach. Dental checkups twice a year will ensure that your teeth are healthy and catch any problems early when they are easier to treat.