Walking down the toothpaste aisle can be intimidating. There are so many brands, flavors, and options to choose from. So, how do you know which toothpaste works best – especially if you have braces?
Let’s look at the most common types of toothpaste available:
Fluoride (Anti-Cavity) toothpaste
Fluoride toothpaste helps remove plaque, a soft sticky film of colorless bacteria that forms on teeth. Fluoride toothpaste prevents tooth decay by strengthening tooth enamel, and all American Dental Association (ADA) accepted toothpastes contain fluoride.
Tartar-Control Toothpaste
Tartar-control toothpaste slows down the buildup of tartar on your teeth. Tartar, or hardened plaque, occurs when plaque is not cleaned from teeth within 24 hours; however, tartar control toothpaste does not remove existing tartar and bacteria from teeth. You’ll need a professional dental cleaning to remove tartar buildup on your teeth.
Whitening Toothpaste
Whitening toothpaste helps brighten your smile by removing surface stains on teeth, using a more abrasive ingredient, such as silica. If you have braces, it’s best to wait to use this type of toothpaste until braces are removed since it only works on the surface and could leave your teeth an uneven color. We recommend a whitening toothpaste that has been approved by the ADA.
If you want a whiter smile, another option is a professional teeth whitening treatment, which involves the use of bleach and a special light. There are teeth whitening products for use at home, but we recommend talking to your dentist before using these products, especially if you have sensitive teeth or gums.
Toothpaste for Sensitive Teeth
Toothpaste for sensitive teeth is specifically for those who experience pain when eating or drinking hot or cold food or drinks. Some causes of sensitive teeth include:
- Gum disease
- Tooth decay
- High acidic food
- Teeth whitening products
Using this type of toothpaste can provide sensitive teeth with relief.
Have More Questions About The Type of Toothpaste?
Selecting the right toothpaste is just one step to maintaining your beautiful smile. Not sure what type of toothpaste is best for you? Let’s talk about it at your next appointment! In the meantime, we recommend that you continue to brush 2-3 times daily and floss daily to maintain your oral health. You can learn more about common teeth problems and what can be done to prevent issues on our website.