How to Pick the Right Toothpaste
In the early 1800s, toothpaste was made of chalk and soap. It’s come a long way since then. Many toothpastes today contain ingredients like fluoride, mild abrasives, sudsing detergents, thickening agents, and flavorings.
With so many toothpastes available in so many price ranges, it can be difficult to be sure you are selecting the right one for your needs. You need a product that not only protects against tooth decay, but also addresses any special concerns that Dr. Havrilla and our team have raised.
Where to Start
The American Dental Association’s (ADA) Seal of Acceptance program can help you narrow down the search. Toothpaste manufacturers can apply for the seal by conducting clinical trials and turning in their results. The ADA evaluates their data. Then, it grants the seal to toothpastes that meet their standards for being safe and effective. Also, check to make sure that the toothpaste contains fluoride, which helps protect against decay.
Consider Special Needs
Fluoride may be all you need in a toothpaste. But you may be depending on your toothpaste to perform extra tasks beyond cleaning your teeth. You can choose toothpastes that help do different things, such as:
- Whiten teeth. These products do not contain teeth-whitening bleaches. Instead, they use chemicals or polishing agents to remove surface stains. This may make teeth appear brighter.
- Control tartar. These toothpastes can help reduce tartar or calculus — the hard deposits that collect on the roots or crowns of teeth.
- Prevent gum disease. Plaque is a naturally occurring, sticky substance made mostly of bacteria that builds up on teeth and can cause cavities and gum disease. These toothpastes control plaque. They can also help reduce gingivitis. Gingivitis is a mild inflammation of the gum tissue.
- Freshen breath. These products may contain active agents that combat bad breath. They either kill the bacteria in plaque that cause bad breath or neutralize bad odors.
- Desensitize the teeth. Certain products can help prevent cold, acidic, and sweet foods from irritating the nerves and causing tooth discomfort.
The American Dental Association’s website has a tool that lets users input their requirements and view a list of the toothpastes that carry the American Dental Association’s seal and address those particular oral health needs.
Make Your Children’s Tooth-Brushing Experience Fun
If you select toothpaste that contains fluoride and has the American Dental Association seal, most types of toothpaste will be fine for your children if they have no special needs. Allowing your kids to select fun toothpaste can encourage them to enjoy the brushing experience more, so that they brush more frequently and do a better job.
The following toothpaste characteristics can make brushing more fun for children.
- Fun flavors, such as bubble gum, berry, and watermelon.
- Sparkles and swirls that make the toothpaste appear more attractive.
- Toothpaste that comes in a pump.
- Toothpaste with a container decorated with Superheroes.
If you have a periodontal/dental implant condition, it’s important to receive treatment before it becomes a dental emergency. At the Havrilla Center for Periodontics & Dental Implants located in Broomall, PA, attending to your comfort and concerns is our first priority. Our mission is to provide you with the highest quality of periodontal and dental implant care in a warm and friendly environment.