Checking your local drugstore or supermarket for toothpaste to buy has never been this overwhelming. There are many different brands and formulations to choose from. With each of their own claims to good oral health, white teeth, and the perfect smile. So how do you know which toothpaste should you use?
To help you out with your toothpaste dilemma, we have a short guide of different toothpaste types and the top toothpastes recommended by dentists.
About Your Toothpaste
Despite the countless toothpaste brands and types available on the market, they are mainly used the same way. To get the most out of your toothpaste, whichever you decide to get, it must used with a soft-bristled toothbrush in gentle strokes for at least 2 minutes. This activates the key ingredients in your toothpaste to help you achieve a brighter and healthier smile.
There are toothpastes that claim to accomplish all oral health goals. These are do-it-all toothpastes that clean, protect, and brighten your teeth. However, if you have specific smile needs, you should look for a toothpaste that can help you achieve just that.
The most common toothpaste is a fluoride-rich toothpaste. This contains fluoride as an active ingredient that provides protection against decay and cavities. Aside from that, there are also whitening toothpastes if you aim for a brighter smile, plaque control toothpastes for those who are prone to tooth decay, and toothpastes that target teeth sensitivity.
For Total Protection
Fluoride toothpastes are recommended for everyone. Fluoride is a very important mineral that provides an extra layer of protection on the tooth. It helps against bacteria and acids that attack the tooth and weaken the enamel. Fluoride helps reduce your risk of cavities.
However, fluoride toothpastes should be used at safe levels. Too much fluoride poses risks to health, especially for children. Consult with your dentist at Signal Hill to know more about the safest and most effective amount for use depending on age.
For Sensitive Teeth
Teeth sensitivity is usually due to worn-down tooth enamel, gum recession, or tooth decay. The discomfort is usually felt when consuming something hot or cold. Patients who suffer from this can find relief in toothpastes made specifically for sensitivity.
For Stains and Discolourations
Whitening toothpastes are formulated with peroxide or other bleaching agents that help lift off stains and brighten the smile. So, if you are a frequent drinker of coffee, tea, or wine, or if you just want to amp up your dull smile, you can go for whitening toothpastes.
Additionally, whitening toothpastes can also be used by patients who recently had teeth whitening done and want to maintain their white smile. However, it should be noted that these whitening toothpastes do not nearly achieve the level of whitening that lasers and kits do.
For Decay and Gum Disease
Lastly, some patients are natural plaque formers. This is the number one enemy of your oral health as it has bacteria and acids that may cause cavities and gum disease. Toothpastes for plaque and tartar control can help remove these irritants before they create problems.
Top 5 Toothpastes that Dentists Recommend
These toothpastes are dentist-recommended for specific reasons. One is a good whitening toothpaste, another is great for those with sensitive teeth, while the other can accomplish all of it in one. If you are undecided on which toothpaste brand to get, this shortlist can help you narrow it down:
Colgate Total
If you want a one-toothpaste-fits-all, Colgate Total is a great option. While the main goal of this toothpaste brand is to fight off plaque and gingivitis, it is also formulated with other key ingredients for whitening and repair. The trio of total care that Colgate Total provides are Advance Whitening to brighten your smile, Daily Repair to reverse early signs of tooth decay, and Deep Clean for plaque and tartar control.
Crest Pro-Health
As one of the few toothpastes with the ADA seal of acceptance in 6 categories, Crest Pro-Health is another toothpaste that does it all for your oral health and smile. It reduces sensitivity, whitens the teeth, fights plaque, prevents gum disease and cavities, and eliminates bad breath.
Sensodyne ProNamel Gentle Whitening Toothpaste
If you have sensitive teeth due to weak enamel, this toothpaste brand is just what you need. As a word play for “pro enamel”, Sensodyne ProNamel hardens weakened enamel to make your teeth more resistant to decay and sensitivity. It also targets sensitive gums to provide overall relief from discomfort, especially if you are hoping to undergo laser teeth whitening.
Arm and Hammer Dental Care Advance Cleaning Mint Toothpaste with Baking Soda
Baking soda is a helpful ingredient in removing plaque and surface stains. Because of this, this Arm and Hammer toothpaste helps to prevent diseases such as decay and gum disease. It also provides some minty whitening effect to your teeth for a brighter smile and fresher breath.
Crest Tartar Protection
Lastly, if you are prone to plaque and tartar formation, Crest has the solution for you. Crest Tartar Protection prevents plaque from hardening into tartar. These are bacteria-filled irritants that may cause cavities, bad breath, and gingivitis. With this toothpaste, you can keep your mouth clean, healthy, and fresh.
What Toothpaste Should I Use? — The Bottomline
Toothbrushing is one of the most crucial steps in maintaining and improving your oral health. And with the right type of toothpaste, it can truly do wonders for your smile. Fortunately, there are already several brands and types to choose from, all you have to do is to properly filter them out so you can select the most effective one for your personal smile needs.
If you are unsure which toothpaste brand to use, consult with our dentists at Signal Hill and they will gladly help you out.
With good at-home oral hygiene care and routine dental check-ups and teeth cleaning, your smile will always look and feel its best!