Using the Right Toothpaste

You may not have given it much thought, but the type of toothpaste that you use is pretty important. Most of us just go into the supermarket and pick the toothpaste that’s on sale. It may be easier to choose the toothpaste that’s cheaper, but those may not be the best.

Instead, you should choose a toothpaste based on your current oral health condition. Your toothpaste doesn’t just clean your teeth; it can also help treat any conditions you may have.

What Is the Purpose of Toothpaste?

You may think that the purpose of toothpaste is to make your breath smell good. Of course, that’s an added benefit, but that’s not the end-all be-all. The purpose of toothpaste is to cleanse your teeth of any food debris, bacteria, and plaque. These can lead to other harmful conditions.

Brushing your teeth with toothpaste safeguards your mouth from these conditions. It’s important to know that toothpaste can’t do the job alone–you should be flossing, too. And it won’t matter at all what toothpaste you use if you don’t brush as efficiently or as frequently as you should.

What Makes a Good Toothpaste?

Most toothpastes contain two substances: fluoride and an abrasive agent. Some toothpastes use abrasive agents like calcium carbonate or hydrated alumina. In combination with the brushing motion, toothpastes with abrasive agents can be very effective.

Fluoride strengthens the tooth enamel, so it counters substances like sugar that weaken the enamel and make your teeth more susceptible to cavities and tooth decay.

What Types of Toothpaste Are There?

Not all toothpastes are made equal. Of course, you have to make sure your toothpaste contains fluoride in order to protect the enamel of your teeth, but you can pick and choose what other characteristics you want your toothpaste to have.

Some toothpastes claim to offer whitening benefits. If your concern is yellowing teeth, you can start brushing with a whitening toothpaste recommended by your dentist. If you have a child, there are kid-friendly toothpastes. Some have added flavors or color changing effects to make brushing fun. If you suffer from tooth sensitivity, there are toothpastes that help coat your teeth and build up your tooth’s enamel.

Barganier & LeCroy, DMD

No matter what toothpaste you use, your oral health is best in the hands of a dentist. At Barganier & LeCroy, we offer way more than toothpaste recommendations! Contact us today to schedule an appointment.