If you’re switching to a new brand of toothpaste, it can be overwhelming to decide which variety will work best for your needs. Drugstore aisles are packed with so many types of toothpaste, it’s intimidating to know where to start!
The easiest way to assess which toothpaste is best for you is to narrow down your search based on the issues you’re trying to address. Do you struggle with bad breath? Do you have sensitive teeth? Identifying these categories will help you select a toothpaste that treats your specific concerns.
We’ve compiled a list of some of the most common toothpaste varieties to look for in your local supermarket so you can find the right toothpaste for all your dental needs.
The Basics
Look for the ADA Seal
Before you start comparing brands and flavors, the first place to start is determining whether or not a toothpaste has received the ADA seal of approval. The ADA (American Dental Association) regulates the efficacy and safety of toothpastes, so any toothpaste option with a thumbs up from the ADA is likely a good choice.
Prioritize Fluoride
Fluoride is a common mineral added to most toothpaste varieties. Because fluoride is such a vital aspect of dental care, it’s also added to drinking water to maximize individual fluoride intake. The ADA estimates that almost 75% of Americans have fluoridated water. Brushing with fluoride-based toothpaste improves overall dental health and reduces cavity growth. According to Business Insider, the benefits of fluoride include: “remineralizing, antibacterial properties, and preventing future decay.”
Specialty Toothpastes
If you’re dealing with specific dental issues, you might want to consider a toothpaste targeted towards those requirements. Remember, dental care is just as personal as any other form of healthcare and there’s no “one-size-fits-all” solution.
Whitening Toothpaste
If you’re looking for a tune-up to improve your smile, you might want to consider trying a whitening toothpaste. This type of toothpaste contains polishing agents that help to lift stains from teeth and leave your smile looking brighter and cleaner. Make sure that you select a whitening toothpaste that also contains standard ingredients like fluoride, so you can ensure your teeth are healthy and brilliant.
Toothpaste for Gum Disease
If you struggle with symptoms of gum disease like excess plaque and tender, inflamed gums, look for a toothpaste that addresses gum disease and helps fight gingivitis at the source. Toothpastes that treat gum disease contain soothing agents that help reduce inflammation and restore gum health.
Sensitive Teeth Toothpaste
Tooth sensitivity is the result of gum recession and dental wear, and is most often triggered by extreme temperatures (either cold or hot) or sweet foods. Toothpastes with “desensitizing agents, like potassium nitrate or fluoride” block tooth sensitivity and repair damage to help your mouth recover. If used regularly, desensitizing toothpastes significantly reduce discomfort, making it more enjoyable to eat certain foods.
Toothpaste for Fresher Breath
If you struggle with bad breath, you want a toothpaste that fights bacteria and packs a minty punch. Bad breath is caused by bacteria in the mouth, so toothpastes that contains anti-bacterial ingredients and odor neutralizing components are a great choice. Additionally, you may want to start brushing your tongue, since bacteria can buildup on the tongue and contribute to bad breath.
Natural Toothpaste
Some folks want to focus on finding natural, chemical-free toothpaste options. There are many brands to choose from, but we suggest identifying a natural toothpaste that still contains fluoride to ensure a thorough clean. Many natural toothpaste brands are flavored with organic ingredients (like essential oils) and don’t contain any excess dyes. Although many natural brands are highly effective, be careful of ingredients like charcoal, which isn’t ADA approved and may actually damage teeth and gums.
Other Considerations
Once you’ve decided which type of toothpaste to try, consider other factors like flavor, texture, and packaging. If you’re using a particular brand of toothpaste twice-a-day, it’s important that you like the taste (such as mint, cinnamon, or fruit) and enjoy the way the toothpaste feels in your mouth. For example, some toothpastes may have intense foaming properties, while others may not foam at all. Pay attention to the qualities you prefer in your toothpaste so you can select a brand that ticks all your boxes.
Schedule Regular Teeth Cleanings
No one knows your teeth like your dentist. If you’re experiencing symptoms of gum disease, staining, bad breath or other issues it’s important to visit the dentist and speak with a professional about your concerns.
At Treasured Smiles our team of licensed professionals is here to help you address your dental needs. We are dedicated to working with you to treat a wide range of dental issues, and to help you find at-home solutions to minimize discomfort and treat symptoms at their source. It’s time to brighten your smile—schedule your appointment at Treasured Smiles today.