Choosing toothpaste can be overwhelming. The supermarket or drug store dental aisle offers whitening toothpaste, toothpaste for sensitive teeth, natural toothpaste, toothpaste with and without fluoride, plaque removing toothpaste, pastes, gels, colors, stripes and flavors. There are toothpastes in tubes, pump dispensers and toothpastes designed to appeal to children. Buying toothpaste has become complicated.
The point of brushing teeth is to remove plaque, a mix of bacteria and acids that forms a sticky residue on teeth after eating. All foods contribute to plaque formation, not just sweets. Plaque causes tooth decay and gum disease. Teeth should be brushed at least twice daily. Dental floss should be used at least once daily. Using toothpaste to brush teeth makes the process easier and more appealing.
The most common plaque agent in today's toothpaste is silica, a mild abrasive. Another cleansing abrasive that can often be found either alone or with silica is sodium bicarbonate (baking soda). In addition to being cleansing, baking soda improves the consistency of toothpaste and contributes to the foaming action. An anti-bacterial agent, such as triclosan, may be added to reduce the formation of plaque. Detergents are also added to increase foaming action. Thickeners and coloring agents are added to make the toothpaste visually appealing. Flavorings and sweeteners are added to improve taste. Preservatives are added to prolong shelf life. Toothpastes with special features, such as anti-sensitivity, have additional ingredients.
What to Look for
If you want to fight cavities read the label to find a fluoride ingredient. Fluoride binds with tooth enamel to strengthen it. These come under several names. The most common is sodium fluoride. Others are sodium monofluorophosphate and stannous fluoride.
Most toothpastes that are used for whitening use strong abrasives or enzymes. Both these ingredients can damage teeth. Look for the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance to insure that the toothpaste will not damage your teeth.
If your teeth are sensitive, look for toothpaste that has potassium nitrate. However, tooth sensitivity may be a symptom of dental or gum disease. Consult your dentist.
Personal preference should be your guide for flavor, color and method of dispensing toothpaste. No flavor will last very long in your mouth. Breath freshening claims last as long as the flavor lasts. However, if an anti-bacterial agent has been added, the growth of odor causing bacteria may be slowed. This may reduce mouth odor for a longer period.
Common Pitfalls
The basic function of toothpaste is to facilitate tooth brushing, which prevents or delays dental and gum disease. It does not replace regular examination by a dentist.
All but the most basic toothpastes have a shelf life. Look for an expiration date on the box.
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