How to Choose the Right Toothpaste for Your Oral Health
4 min read
There are many different types of toothpaste on the market. They make different claims about fighting plaque, gingivitis, whitening, sensitivity, tartar, bad breath and more.
The best choice for you will depend on your unique dental needs and goals. In general, look for a toothpaste that has the American Dental Association seal and is free of harsh additives such as sodium lauryl sulfate.
1. Know Your Oral Hygiene Needs
Practicing good oral hygiene, including brushing for two minutes twice daily and flossing, helps reduce bacteria that can lead to gum disease and cavities. In addition, a good dental hygiene routine can also help ward off bad breath (halitosis).
Toothpaste is an important part of your oral health regimen. However, there are many different types and brands available, making it difficult to find the right one for your needs. It’s best to ask your family dentist for recommendations as they are better suited to recommend toothpaste that meets the needs of your family.
In general, you should choose a toothpaste with fluoride to prevent tooth decay and tartar control. It’s also important to use a soft-bristled toothbrush that is appropriately sized to reach every surface of your mouth, and to replace your toothbrush every three to four months or as soon as the bristles begin to fray.
2. Ask Your Dentist for Recommendations
Your dentist and dental hygienist are familiar with your oral hygiene needs, so you should tap into their expertise. They can provide recommendations during your preventative visits and address any underlying oral concerns you may have.
For example, if you struggle with bad breath, your dentist will likely recommend toothpaste with GUM HYCONTROL to help remove bacteria from the tongue and teeth. Alternatively, if you have tooth sensitivity, your dentist will most likely recommend a toothpaste with a desensitizing agent such as potassium nitrate.
When it comes to buying toothpaste, there are a lot of options available at your local Grosse Pointe area supermarket and pharmacy. To narrow down your choices, focus on the ingredients that are important to you and consider trying a few different brands.
3. Look for the ADA Seal
Whether you’re looking for toothpaste that fights stains, protects against gum disease, whitens teeth, reduces sensitivity, or freshens breath, look for the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance. This will let you know that the product has been evaluated by the ADA’s Council on Scientific Affairs and found to be safe, effective and live up to its claims.
Moreover, any toothpaste that wants to display the ADA seal must provide extensive research and evidence that it works as advertised. This is in addition to the fact that all ADA-approved toothpastes contain fluoride, which helps protect against tooth decay.
The ADA is a reliable resource to guide your toothpaste selection process, but it’s also important to consider your priorities and preferences when shopping around for products.
4. Look for Natural Ingredients
Today, there are many types of natural toothpaste on the market. They usually contain fewer ingredients than traditional toothpastes, and are made for individuals who choose to live a more natural lifestyle.
These toothpastes usually contain humectants (to keep the paste moist) and thickeners (like gums or seaweed extracts). They may also have prebiotics like inulin to encourage the growth of good bacteria in your mouth, which crowds out odor-causing bad bacteria.
These natural toothpastes avoid additives that are known to be harmful to your oral health, such as sodium lauryl sulfate and added sweeteners. They may also have other natural ingredients, such as xylitol for tooth decay prevention and wintergreen essential oil for fresh breath. They are also often cruelty-free and environmentally friendly.
5. Try a Few Different Brands
Choosing the right toothpaste is an important part of oral health. It can help prevent gum disease, protect against cavities, and whiten teeth. But with so many options on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is best for you.
If you’re struggling to find a good toothpaste, try asking your dentist or dental hygienist for recommendations. These professionals are up to date on the latest research and can provide you with personalized recommendations that fit your unique needs.
There are also a number of natural ingredients available that can improve your overall oral health. These ingredients can include baking soda, herbs, and essential oils. These natural ingredients can help reduce the amount of chemicals in your mouth and provide you with a fresher, more confident smile.
