The Do’s and Don’ts of Picking Your Toothpaste
April 3, 2019
Picking your toothpaste can be a daunting task, however, these useful tips can make it easier for you to choose the right one for your needs. It is best to check with your dentist on recommendations for your specific tooth shape and needs.
Do’s:
Fluoride– Fluoride toothpaste is considered essential by most dentists and should be the first ingredient you look for when deciding your toothpaste brand and type. If you are a smoker or coffee drinker it is important to look for a toothpaste with at least 1,000 parts per million ratios of fluoride in your toothpaste. It is considered unsafe to expose infants to fluoride as it has been known to discolor their teeth.
Whitening– Whitening toothpaste can be a great option for people with dark or discolored spots, or someone who simply wants to brighten their smile. However, it should be avoided if you have sensitive teeth or gums. The chemical agents in whitening toothpaste are perfectly safe but could lead to more discomfort in your sensitive teeth. Read, Four Teeth Whitening Tips for a Whiter Smile to learn more.
Baking Soda– Baking Soda is a lower abrasive cleaning agent than other toothpaste. If your teeth are sensitive or prone to cavities it can be a gentle and effective cleaning agent.
Natural Toothpaste– Natural or homemade toothpaste is helpful if you are wanting to avoid certain ingredients in most store-bought brands or for holistic reasons. However, most natural toothpaste does not have fluoride which is an important cavity-fighting tool. You will need to make the choice on whether or not to use natural toothpaste based on how prone your teeth are to cavities, it is also important to consult your dentist for a professional opinion.
Don’t’s:
Sweeteners – Avoid toothpaste with high levels of sugar or sweeteners as much as possible. This is a particular issue in children’s toothpaste because sugar is normally added to make it sweeter. Check the ingredient label and percentage of sugar of your toothpaste to be sure.
The Level of Abrasiveness – All toothpaste have different kinds of abrasive agents in them, it helps to fight off stains, debris, and plaque but it is crucial to find one that matches your needs as to not cause further damage.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) – Sodium Lauryl Sulfate is a common ingredient in most toothpaste, it is a surfactant which is a type of soap that thickens your toothpaste. Avoid buying toothpaste with SLS because it can cause canker sores and even eye irritation in some.
It is always best to check with your dentist to learn what toothpaste is best for you and your needs. Every mouth is different and requires different methods to take care of it. Refer to our previous article to learn Which Toothpaste is Best for the Three Most Common Dental I