You’ve recently resolved to start taking better care of your teeth. The next time you go grocery shopping, you stop by the dental care aisle to pick out the type of toothpaste that will keep your smile healthy. However, you didn’t expect to be overwhelmed by the sheer number of options available. It seems almost impossible to find the overall “best” one. To help you out, here are a few common types of toothpaste and what they are best used for.
Fluoridated Toothpaste
All toothpastes are designed to remove bacteria and plaque from your teeth. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), though, fluoridated toothpaste provides a health benefit that other options don’t. Fluoride is a mineral that strengthens weakened tooth enamel, reducing your risk of getting cavities. Even if the tap water in your area contains fluoride, brushing with a fluoridated toothpaste gives your teeth an extra boost of protection.
Desensitizing Toothpaste
If eating or drinking something hot or cold causes a sharp pain to shoot through your teeth, your enamel may be weakened or worn-down. The pain results from the offending stimuli touching microscopic tubules inside your dentin (the layer of your teeth directly under the enamel) that lead to the tooth’s nerves. While fluoride can fortify your enamel, a desensitizing toothpaste can relieve painful sensitivity. These products contain strontium chloride or potassium nitrate, both of which block the dentin tubules. Keep in mind that you’ll need to use this toothpaste daily for about four weeks before achieving full relief.
Whitening Toothpaste
For many, a white smile is a beautiful smile. That’s why professional teeth whitening treatments have become so popular. If you’re looking for a cheaper way to brighten your pearly whites, you can often find over-the-counter whitening toothpastes. Rather than using bleaching agents, these products typically utilize abrasive chemicals that physically pull stains from the surfaces of your teeth. However, studies have found that they do not harm your enamel more than any other kind of toothpaste.
Having a clear understanding of your oral health needs will help you determine how to choose toothpaste the next time you’re at the store. Regardless of which type you select, make sure it has the ADA Seal of Approval. That means it has been deemed safe and effective at preventing cavities.
About the Author
Dr. Bikram Singh has more than two decades of experience as a dentist. He practiced for several years in his native India before moving to the United States and obtaining his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine in 2002. At Cary Dental Rejuvenation, he prioritizes educating patients on keeping their smiles healthy between checkups. If you need help choosing which toothpaste is right for you, you can visit Dr. Singh’s website or call his office at (919) 460-5454.