The Ultimate Toothpaste Guide, which is best for you?
Choosing the right type of toothpaste may not seem like rocket science. However, it is important to know what options exist and which ones are best for individual needs. For example, a person who has sensitive teeth would not want to use the same type of toothpaste that someone who wants to whiten their smile uses. This toothpaste guide will cover which types are the best for different oral needs based on key ingredients.
Best Toothpaste For Sensitive Teeth
Research suggests that as much as 46 percent of Americans have or have had tooth sensitivity at least once during their lives. Sensitivity may last a few minutes or several days. Both hot and cold foods and beverages may trigger sensitivity. The sensitivity may be due to enamel erosion, new fillings or several other reasons. There are many toothpaste products designed to help relieve the sensitivity feeling and any pain associated with it. These toothpastes typically include strontium chloride or potassium nitrate. Both substances build up blocks in the pathways that span from the tooth’s surface to the tooth’s inner nerves. Although the effects are lasting when people use the toothpaste as directed, relief may take up to several weeks for some people. Some products may also include a mild analgesic for instant pain relief.
Best Toothpaste For Teeth Whitening
People who want to maintain a bright white smile should choose a good whitening toothpaste in addition to any teeth whitening product that may already be used. Whitening toothpastes are popular for people who drink coffee, tea, wine and other staining liquids frequently. There are a few misconceptions when it comes to this type of paste. First, many people believe that whitening toothpastes contain bleach. Nearly all whitening products that come in the form of toothpaste do not contain bleach. They normally contain substances such as baking soda that are gently abrasive and bind to stains. The combination of these qualities helps the substance stick to stains on the teeth and lift them away without causing harm to the enamel. Several of the best whitening toothpaste products contain a small amount of peroxide to remove stains and lighten the color of the teeth.
Although these toothpastes can have cosmetic effects, there are some risks involved. Many of these whitening toothpastes can cause irritations and inflammation of the gums and eventually lead to receding gums and eventual recession of the tissue. We do not advocate for whitening toothpastes due to this reason. We recommend that patients stick with a professional teeth whitening or bleaching system in order to prevent these negative effects of whitening toothpastes. Ask Dr. Sapna Amin or any of her staff about which whitening system would work best for you!
Best Toothpaste For Tartar Control And Bad Breath
A layer of bacteria-filled plaque forms on the teeth after eating. When plaque is not removed, it turns into hard tartar deposits and is hard to remove. Dentists can remove it with a professional cleaning. However, tartar buildup on the teeth can further damage the enamel and cause bad breath. When it builds up under the gums, it can lead to gum disease and gum-line cavities. Products with zinc citrate or tetra-sodium pyrophosphate are designed to combat tartar. People who have chronic bad breath may also have a large amount of oral bacteria. Toothpastes that also contain Triclosan are beneficial for this. Triclosan is an antibiotic designed to kill some types of oral bacteria. When choosing a paste for tartar control, experts recommend choosing one with multiple plaque-fighting agents.
Best Toothpaste for Enamel Protection
Sugar, acidic foods, poor dental hygiene and genetics are all common causes of poor enamel on teeth. When enamel is gone, it cannot be fully restored. Although some products claim to do this, they actually have agents to help strengthen the teeth to prevent further damage. The best way to enjoy strong enamel is to prevent erosion instead of trying to treat broken-down enamel. Dental experts recommend that all adults and children use a toothpaste with fluoride to protect tooth enamel every day. When bacteria feed on sugars and other substances on the teeth, an acid is formed that normally damages enamel. Fluoride helps prevent the damage by strengthening and re-mineralizing tooth enamel. It is best to brush with a fluoride toothpaste twice daily.
Professional Strength Toothpaste
Our office offers prescription strength toothpastes as well. These toothpastes offer a higher concentration of sodium fluoride with added benefits of potassium nitrate that helps to significantly reduce sensitivity. They can help prevent cavities by re-mineralizing the enamel. There are also prescription toothpastes that contain different formulas for helping you achieve different results based on your needs. Dr. Amin or her hygienist can help guide you to a solution that will help you get the results you are striving for.
Always read the toothpaste ingredients on a package before buying it. Keep in mind that the ingredients are listed in order from the highest concentration to the lowest. Never buy a paste that contains the toxic substance diethylene glycol. It is found in some products that were made in China. The FDA actually recommends avoiding all toothpaste products that were made in China. Although there are many brands claiming to be the best, choosing quality over price should always be a priority. Quality toothpastes are approved by the ADA. If a paste has the ADA seal, this also means it contains fluoride. Remember that it is important for any toothpaste to contain fluoride. By practicing good oral hygiene and using the right toothpaste, it is easier to avoid the high costs of oral diseases and extensive dental work. Since extensive work is expensive even with insurance, it is best to receive the free or low-cost preventative cleanings and exams covered by an insurer to maintain oral health. Click here to learn about having a pain-free wisdom teeth recovery after surgery.