5 Simple Tips for Choosing the Best Toothpaste

When patients come to us, one of the most common questions is this: “Which toothpaste is best for my teeth?”

Although many of them are made in a very similar way, there are still some differences between them. Here are the major components to keep in mind when purchasing a toothpaste.

1. Abrasive agents
2. Fluoride
3. ADA-Approved toothpaste
4. Whitening toothpaste
5. Imposters

Next time when you go to buy one, make sure you check the following:

1. Abrasive Agents

Abrasives constitute at least 50% of a typical toothpaste. These insoluble particles help remove plaque from the teeth. The removal of plaque and calculus helps minimize cavities and periodontal disease. But how can you obtain information about abrasiveness of the product you are considering? It is not stated clearly on the box.
We strongly recommend you choose any toothpaste that is below 70 RDA (Relative Dental Abrasivity).

2. Fluoride

Fluoride is the most important active ingredient in the prevention of cavities. Usually, on the back of a toothpaste container, we can see whether it contains fluoride. It helps to protect your teeth from the demineralization that occurs when acid is released from foods. The additional fluoride has beneficial effects on the formation of dental enamel and bones. Fluoride occurs in small amounts in plants, animals, and some natural water sources.

An economic analysis found that for larger communities of more than 20,000 people where it costs about 50 cents per person to fluoridate the water, every $1 invested in this preventive measure yields approximately $38 savings in dental treatment costs. For example, fluoridation saves Newburyport residents over $300,000 in dental care costs.

3. Always Choose an ADA-Approved Toothpaste

These kinds of toothpaste are approved by the American Dental Association. Next time when you go shopping, make sure you get the one that contains fluoride.

4. Be Careful With Whitening Products

Toothpastes containing whitening agents are more abrasive than normal ones.The more abrasive it is – the higher the side effects that arise from its use. It can even damage tooth enamel and cause tooth sensitivity.

Before you start using any whitening product, you should consult your dentist and make sure that your teeth and gums are healthy.

5. Be Aware of Imposters

In June 2007, the FDA warned consumers to avoid using toothpaste labelled as “Made in China” due to concerns that it may contain the poisonous chemical diethylene glycol (DEG), an ingredient used in antifreeze. The agency has also identified products from South Africa that contain DEG and has since issued an import alert to prevent products containing DEG from entering the United States from any country. Carefully examine imported packages before buying them.

Keep in mind that one of the reasons that you may have problems with the enamel at the gum line and gum recession could be your choice of toothpaste and toothbrush.

Please contact us and we’ll be very happy to help you with any concerns or questions.