Next time you’re at the grocery store, take note of just how many brands there are. Odds are you’ve noticed before, but it’s also possible that you’re used to it! With just about any product you need, there are a plethora of options available to you. Sometimes this is helpful—so you can find exactly what you’re looking for. Other times, though? It’s overwhelming, and hard to know what makes each product different from the one beside it.
When it comes to toothpaste, there are so many brands claiming to be the best for your teeth. But what actually makes for an effective toothpaste? Keep reading for the truth.
Dentist-Recommended Toothpaste Brands
When choosing a toothpaste, there’s a lot to consider. Some things are technical—like the specific ingredients that can help or hurt your teeth. Other things are personal, like what flavors you prefer! Let’s start with the technical stuff.
ADA Seal of Approval
One of the first (and simplest) things to look for in your toothpaste is the American Dental Association seal of approval. It should be front and center on the packaging! This seal lets you know that A) the product will effectively clean your teeth, and B) that it doesn’t have any damaging ingredients like sugar. That’s a pretty good place to start!
Ingredients to Look For
It’s also important to know what’s in your toothpaste, regardless of ADA approval. Here are a few of the common ingredients you want in your toothpaste, as well as what they do:
- Fluoride: You’ve probably heard of this one! It strengthens your enamel and prevents decay.
- Potassium Nitrate: This is great if you have sensitive teeth.
- Stannous Fluoride: These two reduce your risk of gum disease.
- Pyrophosphates & Zinc Citrate: These reduce your risk of tartar buildup.
- Modified Silica Abrasives, Enzymes, Hydrogen Peroxide, & Carbamide Peroxide: All of these wonderful ingredients have teeth-whitening benefits.
Personal Preference
Now that we’ve covered the technical side of toothpaste, it’s time to factor in your personal preferences! Making your oral hygiene routine as enjoyable as possible is important for sticking with it. This is especially important for the younger members of your family who are still learning important habits.
First thing’s first, make sure you like the flavor! One of the benefits to having as many choices as we do is the wide variety of flavors we can choose from. You might need a try a few before committing—even the fun toothpastes made for kids don’t always taste good, or they taste great but are full of sugar!
It’s also important to keep your unique oral health needs in mind when choosing a toothpaste. Do you suffer from sensitive teeth? Are your teeth a little more yellow than you’d like? Maybe you’re more susceptible to cavities! Whatever you’re hoping to work on, they probably make a toothpaste just for you. Talk with your dentist for more specific recommendations!
Have More Questions About Toothpaste?
Dental checkups are about more than just a thorough cleaning. While the cleaning is important for removing stubborn plaque and harmful tartar, it’s also a great opportunity to ask questions about your oral health. Your dentist can recommend specific brands or products to suit your specific needs, as well as give you expert tips on cleaning your teeth at home. Ready to make your appointment? Get in touch with LeCroy Dental today! We look forward to serving you.