Choosing the Right Toothpaste: A Guide from Your Dental Experts

One of the most common questions we get asked during a dental appointment is, 

"Which toothpaste should I use?" 

This is a great question because selecting the right toothpaste can significantly impact your oral health. Today, we want to shed some light on the types of toothpaste we recommend and why choosing the right one matters.

Toothpaste is not a “one-size-fits-all” kind of product, but more of an individualized product. What works best for one person may not be best for another. First, let’s go over some of the broad categories of toothpastes: 

Fluoride Toothpaste

Fluoride is like a vitamin for your teeth. It strengthens enamel, which is the outer layer of your teeth, making them more resistant to decay. For most people, we recommend using fluoride toothpaste because it helps prevent cavities and maintains overall oral health. Look for toothpastes that contain fluoride to ensure you're getting this essential mineral with every brush.

CFD Favorite: Crest Densify

Anti-Cavity Toothpaste 

If you're particularly prone to cavities or have a history of dental decay, an anti-cavity toothpaste might be the right choice for you. These toothpastes typically contain a higher concentration of fluoride and additional ingredients that help fight cavities more effectively. Using a higher-strength toothpaste can provide extra protection for your teeth, especially if you have weak enamel, are at higher risk for tooth decay, or suffer from dry mouth.

CFD Favorite: Colgate Prevident 5000 Plus

Sensitivity Toothpaste

Are your teeth sensitive with every drink of cold water? Sensitivity toothpaste is designed to alleviate discomfort by either blocking the tubules in your teeth that lead to the nerves or desensitizing the nerve endings themselves. These toothpastes are gentle on sensitive teeth while still providing the essential oral care benefits you need.

CFD Favorite: Sensodyne Sensitivity Toothpaste

Children's Toothpaste

When it comes to children, using a toothpaste specifically designed for their age group is crucial. Children's toothpastes come in fun flavors and are usually lower in fluoride content to accommodate their smaller size and developing teeth. Always supervise young children while they brush to make sure they use the appropriate amount of toothpaste and spit it out rather than swallowing it. If they happen to swallow it, do not panic. This is not enough fluoride to pose any sort of risk for children, unless they ate an entire tube of adult toothpaste in one sitting.

For children, the most important thing is that they begin to build the habit of brushing their teeth everyday at a young age. Allow them to brush their own teeth as early as they can hold a toothbrush, but standby and help them brush any plaque that they might have missed (Young children tend to miss a lot of plaque along the gum line). By letting them start the process themselves, it will instill this process and feeling into their minds and promote a healthy mouth from the day the first tooth erupts.

CFD Favorite: Let your child pick an age-appropriate toothpaste with their favorite cartoon character. This will be easily-recognizable to them and will help build consistency and enjoyment with each brushing experience.

Whitening Toothpaste

Whitening toothpastes gently remove surface stains, leading to a brighter smile over time. They contain mild abrasives or polishing agents to scrub away stains from coffee, tea, or smoking. While effective, they may not be suitable for those with sensitive teeth or cosmetic dental restorations.

CFD Favorite: Crest 3D White Brilliance

Ultimately, the best toothpaste for you depends on your individual oral health needs and preferences. During your next dental visit, feel free to ask us for personalized recommendations based on your specific dental concerns. Remember, regardless of the toothpaste you choose, brushing twice a day for at least two minutes each time is essential for maintaining a healthy smile.

We hope this guide helps you make an informed decision about which toothpaste is right for you. As always, if you have any questions or concerns about your oral health, don't hesitate to reach out to us. Your smile is our priority!

Kevin Boehnke, DDS

Courtesy Family Dental

303-604-2609

CFD@courtesyfamilydental.com