When you need a new tube of toothpaste, the number of choices in the grocery or drug store aisle can be bewildering. The number one thing to remember is that whichever brand you choose, it should been approved by the CDA. That means it has met the rigorous standards and testing of the Canadian Dental Association. Other than that, there are different types of toothpaste available, depending on your needs.
For Yellow Teeth
A whitening toothpaste can help you with discolored teeth. These toothpastes contain a mild abrasive to polish the tooth surface, and ones that contain silicone abrasives are most effective. Stubborn or older stains may not be affected. If you don’t see the results you want after a month, talk to your dentist about the solutions he can offer.
For the Cavity Prone
Most toothpaste will work for cavity prevention since the main cavity fighter in toothpaste is fluoride. If you are especially prone to cavities, you can ask about a prescription cavity fighting toothpaste. A tip: don’t rinse immediately after brushing; it will give the ingredients more time to do their job on your teeth.
For Sensitive Teeth
If you’ve ruled out any problems, such as infections or you are brushing too roughly, there are toothpastes that contain desensitizing ingredients to reduce the pain. Look for strontium chloride or potassium nitrate on the label – either is effective.
For Tartar Buildup
Once tartar has hardened, no toothpaste will have any affect. You must have it scraped off at our office. However, there are some ingredients, such as pyrophosphates and zinc citrate, that can help prevent tartar from hardening.
Remember, no toothpaste by itself will keep your smile bright and long-lasting. You actually need to use it daily (along with flossing), and when coupled with regular checkups, you can keep your smile healthy.