Do you ever wander down the toothpaste aisle and become immediately overwhelmed by the number of choices? There are toothpastes for sensitivity, whitening, bleeding gums, smokers, anti-cavity, with fluoride, without fluoride and the list goes on and on! How on earth do you choose? We’ve put together a little “cheat sheet” below to highlight the benefits to some of the most popular toothpastes to help make your decision a little less daunting.
What Should I Look for in a Toothpaste?
There are a few key things to consider when selecting your toothpaste:
- Look for the American Dental Association seal of approval
- Choose a toothpaste with fluoride to help prevent cavities and strengthen enamel
- Assess your chief concern when making a selection – for example: sensitivity
- Consider the abrasiveness of the toothpaste and the state of your enamel health
Don’t hesitate to ask our dentists or hygienists what toothpaste they suggest for your personal needs
Does Whitening Toothpaste Really Work?
The short answer to this question is, yes. However, it’s important to note that there
will be no dramatic change in tooth color. Whitening toothpastes remove surface stains but do not penetrate into the teeth. They are also abrasive and can wear the enamel after extended use. For those more stubborn, deep stains; it’s best to consider whitening strips or professional whitening.
When Should I Select a Sensitive Toothpaste?
Tooth sensitivity is actually quite common and sensitivity toothpastes are very effective. Tooth sensitivity is often related to aggressive brushing, gum recession and root exposure. If you experience regular tooth sensitivity to hot and cold liquids, cool air, when you brush, etc., give one a try! These toothpastes are most effective when used regularly, twice daily and relief is usually noticed within a couple weeks.
Is Charcoal Toothpaste Safe?
Charcoal toothpastes seem to be flooding the shelves lately – claiming to help whiten
and brighten teeth. Charcoal toothpastes may remove surface stains but their abrasive nature may also wear down your enamel. This can lead to dentin exposure and increased sensitivity. Enamel wear can lead to rough surfaces which may actually lead to increased staining. Talk to your dental professionals to ensure these toothpastes are safe for your teeth.
What Toothpaste Should I Choose for Bleeding Gums?
Red and irritated, inflamed, or bleeding gums are usually a sign of Gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease. Gingivitis occurs when plaque has the opportunity to build on the teeth which is typically the result of poor oral hygiene. It is critical to be proactive with any sign of Gingivitis because if left untreated, it can lead to irreversible bone loss and Periodontal Disease. It’s extremely important to floss daily as well as brush twice daily with a soft bristle toothbrush – also remembering to brush gently around the gum line in addition to your teeth. Brush for a full two minutes each time. There are toothpastes on the market such as Crest Gum Detoxify and Parodontax that target plaque bacteria and build up known to cause Gingivitis. If you’re seeing any signs of gum irritation or Gingivitis, give one of these a try!
We hope this information gives a little more insight into the toothpaste world and helps make your decision a little easier the next time you walk down that daunting aisle! Make sure to ask your dentist and hygienist what they recommend for you the next time you’re in our office or feel free to give us a call (828) 252-9351.