How to Choose Toothpaste Wearing a Blindfold

EVER WALK DOWN THE TOOTHPASTE AISLE and think – if only I had more choices when choosing toothpaste? Are 30 or more varieties really enough options for a person?

Surely you detect my light-hearted sarcasm on the toothpaste topic. As a dentist, you could blindfold me, send me down the aisle to choose toothpaste, and I would willingly use any name brand version of fluoride toothpaste on my own teeth with confidence.

Allow me to add the punch line to the beginning of this Comfort Dental post –

The version of fluoride toothpaste you use is not nearly as important as:

Making sure you are consistently brushing for 2-3 minutes at least twice a day.
Making an effort to clean between your teeth with floss or floss-alternative, like interdental brushes
Visiting your dentist’s office every 6 months to have the unavoidable build-up removed that brushing cannot clean away.

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Do these things and you too can wear a blindfold down the toothpaste aisle and feel confident with your choice.

SENSITIVE TEETH and DRY MOUTH – EXCEPTION
If you have sensitive teeth or suffer from dry-mouth, some real benefit can come from toothpastes specifically formulated for both of these conditions. Although there are several good options, Sensodyne toothpaste is helpful choice for sensitive teeth, while those with dry mouth can look to both toothpaste and mouthwashes by Biotene.

A BRIEF SUMMARY OF SPECIALTY TOOTHPASTE FEATURES
In addition to the array of flavors, colors, and formulations – you’ve probably noticed, some specialty toothpastes include:

Tartar Control: No matter the toothpaste, we want to brush away tartar. These toothpastes, however, usually contain sodium pyrophosphate or sodium hexametaphosphate, which help keep the tartar at bay and prevent stain above the gum line. However, these toothpastes are only useful in preventing new tartar, not getting rid of the stuff that’s already there! You’ll need a professional cleaning for that.
Antimicrobial: These toothpastes often contain triclosan, which is an antibacterial agent that helps prevent cavities and can assist with sensitivity.
Whitening: Whitening toothpastes claim to help remove and/or prevent stains from settling on your teeth, yet they do not remove internal tooth discoloration. If used regularly, these toothpastes can make your smile brighter. Many persistent surface stains can be removed with a professional cleaning, allowing you to walk out with immediate results.

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Choosing toothpaste is a very personal decision – or one you can make wearing a blindfold. Perhaps the most important aspect is – choose one you like enough to use at least twice a day!