For hundreds of years, humans have been using certain scrubs and pastes to clean the teeth while supporting good oral health and wellness and freshening breath. Today, we still rely on the use of toothpaste for all the same reasons, and have a wide variety of options to choose from. The team at Drs of Smiles Gentle Family Dentistry in Mesa, AZ believe in demystifying the choices available over-the-counter. Are all toothpaste created equal? Does it matter which toothpaste I use to brush my teeth? There are so many different ways to answer this question depending on the patient.
Below is a handful of different toothpaste varieties that are often seen in the local drugstores:
- Anti-cavity toothpaste. An anti-cavity toothpaste has the goal of remineralizing and strengthening natural tooth enamel to help in the prevention of tooth decay. It can accomplish this due to the addition of fluoride and is often approved by the American Dental Association (ADA).
- Whitening toothpaste. Patients who want to brighten their teeth and address surface-level staining on the surfaces of their teeth may want to consider the use of a whitening toothpaste. These toothpastes integrate strong abrasives such as silica to lift stains and polish the teeth. They may also include hydrogen peroxide which can help in breaking down deeper stains in the teeth. Patients who use this type of toothpaste may experience some sensitivity.
- Sensitive toothpaste. Patients who have sensitive teeth that are bothered by cold or hot beverages and foods may benefit from using a toothpaste designed for their sensitive teeth. Potassium nitrate is often used in these toothpastes, which is an ingredient that can reduce pain signals to the nerves of the teeth and alleviate discomfort.
- Prescription toothpaste. For patients who have more severe and unique needs, there are several prescription toothpastes that a dentist may recommend for a patient. Additionally, patients can combine toothpastes with prescription mouthwashes that may be designed to address more serious levels of periodontal disease.
Are you confused as to which toothpaste is right for you?
Mesa, AZ area patients who are interested in learning more about toothpastes and their benefits are encouraged to book a consultation visit with our team of professionals at Drs of Smiles Gentle Family Dentistry at 1056 South Val Vista Drive, Suite #1. Call (480) 834-6991 to request an appointment with Drs. Scott LeSueur, Glenn LeSueur, and Charles Dodaro.