The Ultimate Guide to Toothpastes
On average, we are bombarded with over 300 marketing messages from brands each day. All of these brands are vying for our attention, approval, and at the heart of it, our wallets. There’s an entire aisle of the pharmacy and grocery store dedicated to toothpaste. With so many kinds, so many brands and so many flavors, most people are overwhelmed with choices.
Here is some quick tidbits on Toothpaste
Always Look for ADA approval. The American Dental Association’s seal of approval means a product has been deemed safe and effective by their independent review board of scientific experts. Note that all products carrying this seal contain Fluoride, which is, more often than not, highly beneficial.
Select what’s best for you and your loved ones. The best toothpaste for you and your family is a matter of preference, but more than anything, it should be focused on oral healthcare needs.
LIST OF TYPES OF TOOTHPASTE
BAKING SODA TOOTHPASTES
When it comes to ingredients, the name really says it all for this type of toothpaste. Also, it gives you a different flavor than typical mint varieties. Baking soda based toothpastes are great for cleaning surface stains. Also, baking soda is a weak base, which helps to counteract the acid from bacteria, as well as the more acidic food and beverages that you consume.
CHILDREN’S TOOTHPASTES
Younger ones most likely won’t be big fans of mint or baking soda flavored toothpastes. You can find many fruit flavored options that will appeal to your kids. For kids taking systemic or pill fluoride, look for a fluoride free version. Overdoing fluoride can cause white spots in the developing adult teeth.
NATURAL TOOTHPASTES
Like any natural product, there are so many facets to choosing the right natural toothpaste. These products contain less chemicals, and in some cases absolutely no chemicals. You can still find a variety of toothpaste types, similar to those on this list.
SENSITIVE TEETH TOOTHPASTES
Two particular ingredients, strontium chloride and potassium nitrate, have been recognizetandpastad by the ADA as effective in treating sensitive teeth and gums. Also, avoiding sodium lauryl sulfate is best for sensitive teeth, as well as those who chronically have canker sores. Most anti-sensitive toothpastes have low abrasion and the active ingredients help to desensitize the nerve endings in the tooth reducing sensitivity.
TARTAR CONTROL TOOTHPASTES
Most of these types of toothpaste contain fluoride, although a variety of ingredients are implemented to help prevent further buildup of tartar. Other ingredients include pyrophosphates and zinc citrate, as well as triclosan (a bacteria killing antibiotic). Tartar is the plaque that wasn’t removed from your teeth and has now hardened onto them. This deposit is much harder to remove and can build up. If too much builds up under your gums, it can lead to gum disease.
WHITENING TOOTHPASTES
These types vary in strength and results. Most whitening toothpastes contain hydrogen peroxide or calcium peroxide which are highly abrasive. Dentists consider many of them as too harsh for teeth. Contrary to popular belief, these products only polish your teeth. They make your teeth appear whiter by getting rid of surface stains. They do not actually whiten them. Use of a whiten toothpaste can produce sensitive teeth due to the increase abrasion or stain removal
