What Toothpaste Should I Be Using?

02 Nov What Toothpaste Should I Be Using?

1. What are the different types of toothpaste?
2. Which toothpaste should I be using?

1. What are the different types of toothpaste?

Choosing which toothpaste to use can be a confusing task. There are a lot of options available, and it can be hard to know which toothpaste you should be using.

These are some of the common types of toothpaste:

Fluoride Toothpaste

Fluoride toothpaste is recommended by dentists as the fluoride ingredient helps strengthen the tooth and prevent decay. Colgate, Sensodyne, Oral B and many others contain fluoride, if you are unsure then read the ingredients! Take a look at our dental blog on Fluoride for further information.

Whitening Toothpaste

This type of toothpaste helps whiten the teeth as it contains abrasives which can remove the surface stains. This toothpaste is not a substitute for professional teeth whitening as it can cause enamel erosion and sensitivity with excessive use.

Sensitive Toothpaste

This toothpaste can be used to reduce the sensitivity of your teeth caused by hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks. These toothpastes contain an ingredient, commonly Stannous Fluoride, Potassium nitrate or Strontium chloride, which work to block the pores on the enamel to prevent the sensitivity. It may take a few weeks for the toothpaste to block the sensitivity. Sensodyne or Colgate Sensitive are the well-known sensitive toothpastes available.

Anti-Tartar Toothpaste

This toothpaste works to prevent the build-up of plaque on the teeth, which can cause gum disease. They can be effective but long-term use leads to enamel erosion and tooth sensitivity due to the abrasive nature of the toothpaste. Regular dental cleaning is a better approach to plaque build-up.

Natural Toothpaste

Natural toothpaste is made with the use of natural ingredients only. This option can be useful for patients who have allergies to artificial ingredients. Some natural toothpastes do not contain fluoride, which is highly recommended by dentists to prevent tooth decay. If you would like to try a natural toothpaste, we would strongly suggest one that contains fluoride.

2. What toothpaste should I be using?

Choosing the right toothpaste for you will depend on a few factors which include your age, preference, budget, and oral health requirements.

• Age – children under 6 years old should use a toothpaste with low fluoride concentrations. Children over 6 years old and adults can use normal fluoride toothpastes.
• Preference – choose a toothpaste which you or your children like the taste of, as it will encourage you to use it.
• Budget – branded toothpastes are more expensive than unbranded ones, they often contain the same ingredients.
• Oral health requirements – talk to your dentist about which toothpastes are suitable for you, as you may require sensitive toothpastes, anti-tartar, or ones without certain ingredients.

Ask your dentist what toothpaste you or your family should be using, and they may be able to provide samples for you to try and point you in the right direction.

If you would like more information about what type of toothpaste you should be using, or if you would like to book an appointment with one of our dentists, why not give us a call on 01772 335207 or fill out the contact form and we will be in touch.