If you have been to the dental care aisle, you know that the wall of choices can be difficult to sift through. With all of the options available, it can be hard to figure out which toothpaste is right for you.
Every toothpaste claims to deliver the whitest, brightest smile that no other toothpaste can compare to. That said, is there really much difference between all the options? Let’s explore some different types of toothpaste to help you figure out which one may be best for you.
Fluoride
Fluoride is one of the most important factors when choosing a toothpaste. To receive the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance, a toothpaste must contain fluoride.
Over time your enamel is weakened by acid-producing bacteria on your teeth. Fluoride helps to strengthen your enamel and is an important tool to protect against tooth decay. It is highly recommended for patients to choose a toothpaste that contains fluoride and has the ADA Seal of Acceptance.
Tartar Control
Some patients may have a hard time with plaque building up on their teeth. Over time this plaque can harden and turn into tartar which is one of the major contributors to gum disease. Toothpaste that is specially designed to control plaque build-up contains abrasive agents that helps remove tartar.
That being said, this toothpaste is not a replacement for regular biannual cleanings from Dr. López. Professional cleanings remove plaque that you may not be able to reach with regular brushing and flossing.
Whitening
Teeth whitening toothpaste is popular for patients that want to lighten their teeth by multiple shades. These kinds of toothpaste are not designed to bleach your teeth. Instead, they are formulated to remove surface stains. Therefore, it can take weeks to start seeing any significant results.
If teeth whitening is your goal, we recommend trying a professional teeth whitening service. Ask about our whitening treatments during your next visit.
Desensitizing
Sensitive teeth can make it difficult to eat cold or hot food. For these patients desensitizing toothpaste is a great option. It’s important to remember that it can take several applications before sensitivity is reduced. If desensitizing toothpaste is not enough, contact our office and we can help you find a treatment plan that will relieve your sensitive teeth.
Unique Flavors
Sometimes patients just want to find a way to make brushing fun again. For these patients, a toothpaste that has a unique flavor might be a perfect choice. From standard choices like mint to more exotic options like bacon or chocolate, if you’re looking for a unique way to spice up your oral care regimen, a uniquely flavored toothpaste may be just the thing for you.
Your Ideal Toothpaste
Ultimately the best toothpaste is the one that helps you stay consistent with daily brushing. While there are many great options, your ideal toothpaste is the one that gets you to brush for two minutes twice every day. Dr. López is delighted to answer any of your questions and can help you find the toothpaste that meets your needs.
Visit Summit Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
Our mission is to help patients achieve healthy smiles that they can show off with confidence. Dr. López and his dedicated team at Summit Family & Cosmetic Dentistry have the knowledge and experience to make your dream smile a reality.
From teeth cleaning and whitening treatments to veneers and dental implants, we have the treatment options to help you achieve your ideal smile. Schedule your next appointment with Dr. López today.