Toothpaste has been squeezed onto a toothbrush

Your Guide to Toothpaste

Toothpaste has been squeezed onto a toothbrush

Your Guide to Toothpaste

The gel or mousse-like substance we squeeze onto our toothbrushes every morning and evening is a more complex substance than most people give it credit. We might not think much about toothpaste but there are a few things you should know to maintain optimum oral health.

The types of toothpaste:

There are many different types of toothpaste that deal with specific dental conditions or that provide certain results. Most of these variations are not found in your regular supermarket toiletries aisle, but they may be what you need to stay on top of your dental hygiene.

Anticavity toothpaste

Most toothpastes that contain fluoride are anticavity toothpastes. Fluoride is an inorganic chemical that reduces the risk of tooth decay in the mouth. Too much fluoride can cause dental problems, such as teeth discoloration, so it is important to monitor your fluoride intake. Most households in America have fluoride in the water supply, so an extra fluoride toothpaste may be unnecessary.

Tartar Control Toothpaste

This is the best option for someone who is trying to get rid of plaque build up or struggles to maintain their dental hygiene. This toothpaste is abrasive enough to remove plaque before it turns to tartar, a hardened plaque that can only be removed by a professional dentist cleaning.

Sensitive Formula

Most people will be very familiar with this toothpaste as it controls the sensitivity levels in the mouth. The formula has desensitizing properties that protects the teeth and mouth from extreme hot and cold temperatures. One of the most famous sensitivity toothpastes in Sensodyne, which is one of the top selling toothpastes in America.

Anti-Ginigvitis Toothpaste

Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease caused by a bacterial infection of the gums. This toothpaste aims to eliminate bacteria in the mouth and prevent the onset of gum disease. This toothpaste could be prescribed by a dentist to a patient that is at risk of developing gum disease. Risk factors include poor dental hygiene, poor diet, high progesterone levels due to pregnancy, and crooked teeth that are difficult to clean.

Teeth Whitening Toothpaste

This toothpaste is much more abrasive as it aims to remove stains from the exterior of the tooth. Whitening toothpastes should be chosen wisely as they can be too abrasive and remove your tooth enamel. Speak to your dentist about teeth whitening before using at home methods.

Natural Toothpaste

Ingredients, such as peppermint oil, baking soda, bamboo and stevia extracts are perfect for a more naturally medicinal approach to your dental routine.

Kids Toothpaste

This line of toothpaste is perfect for children as it contains less fluoride, is in flavors that kids like and is designed to be swallowed without any negative effects. Children should only start using toothpaste after the age of 2.

Once you have the toothpaste that is perfect for you and your dental needs you can brush your teeth with confidence.

Things to keep in mind:

  • Only use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste to brush your teeth. More than this can damage the tooth enamel and heighten tooth sensitivity.
  • Avoid ingredients in toothpaste such as Triclosan, Artificial Sweeteners, Sodium Lauryl Sulphate, Microbeads, Propylene Glycol, and Diethanolamine, as they are toxic.
  • If you are in a bind, you can make your own toothpaste by combining two thirds of a cup of baking soda, a teaspoon of salt, one to two teaspoons of peppermint extract and filtered water.
  • You can add as much filtered water as you like to make the consistency you desire.

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