Brushing is no longer a boring activity with a large variety of toothpastes available in the market. Some contain breath freshening elements, some are natural, while others help whiten teeth and reduce teeth sensitivity. ‘What toothpaste should I use?’ is a question that comes to people’s minds often. Many people suffer from certain dental issues, while others have no issues but need to maintain oral hygiene. So, how do you figure out which type of toothpaste to buy? Toothpastes are not a one-size-fits-all product. Choosing a toothpaste will depend on your oral health needs. In this article, we will answer your question of “what toothpaste should I use?”

Fluoride Based Toothpastes

If you are not aware, fluoride is a mineral that helps to strengthen your tooth enamel, and in doing so, protecting your teeth. Because of this fluoride becomes one of the most essential ingredients in toothpastes. Fluoride makes your tooth enamel stronger and helps in remineralizing the parts that may have been affected due to bacteria and acidic reactions. A fluoride based toothpaste is generally recommended by dentists for stronger teeth.

Toothpastes For Sensitivity (Desensitizing Toothpaste)

If you experience a sharp pain when consuming hot or cold foods, then there could be a chance that you have tooth-sensitivity. People facing the problem of tooth sensitivity can use special toothpastes that are meant for battling this problem. These toothpastes contain ingredients such as potassium nitrate, and fluoride that block the passageways between the nerves of your teeth and the outside surface, thus, preventing tooth sensitivity.

Toothpaste For Kids

Now, an important aspect that comes into the picture is what kind of toothpaste should you use for your kids. It is essential to get a fluoride-free toothpaste for babies and toddlers who don’t know how to spit out their toothpaste. Intake of too much fluoride can result in a condition called dental or enamel fluorosis. We know that enamel fluorosis can cause white lines or flecking on the surface of your child’s teeth.Therefore your dentist will recommend that your child choose a fluoride free toothpaste until they are old enough to spit out on their own; this it typically around the age of 6 to 8

Toothpaste For Teeth-Whitening

Most of these toothpastes contain abrasive ingredients like magnesium carbonate or dehydrated silica gels that help remove surface stains. This can be a good choice if you have mild stains. Other whitening agents that these toothpastes contain include hydrogen peroxide that bleaches your teeth and polyphosphates that protects teeth enamel from staining.

Natural Toothpaste

Natural toothpastes are formulated without artificial ingredients and foaming agents like sodium lauryl sulfate. These toothpastes are an excellent option for children who tend to swallow toothpaste. However, if cavities are the main issue and you’re child is old enough to know how to spit when brushing, then, in such a case, be sure fluoride is included in your toothpaste.

 

The CDA will put their stamp of approval on toothpastes that they have tested and certified. Make sure the tooth pastes you are buying have the CDA stamp of approval. However, do not be influenced by the variety of choices you make while buying the toothpaste for your family. Consult with our dentists at Edmonton Smiles if you need more guidance about the toothpaste you should choose.