SPRINGFIELD, MISSOURI-If you have ever stood in the toothpaste aisle staring at the overwhelming selection available, you are not alone. Between Crest and Colgate, the two largest toothpaste makers, there are more than 70 options to choose from.
There are many other brands of toothpaste, plus the benefits they’re touting-gets teeth whiter, controls tartar, blasts away bad breath, protects sensitive teeth-not to mention the flavors and textures.
“When it comes to keeping your teeth clean and cavities at bay, you only need to look for two active ingredients on the label. Everything else is just extra,” says Dr. Tracy Davis, who is a dental implant specialist.
Toothpaste is supposed to fight tooth decay and prevent plaque buildup, which means you need fluoride and an antibacterial ingredient like zinc or triclosan. When used as recommended, fluoride is a safe and effective way to help harden teeth, and studies show that it prevents tooth decay. Certain toothpastes contain chemicals known as pyrophosphates that help reduce plaque that can build up and harden into a brownish deposit on teeth called tartar. You should brush using a pea-sized amount of toothpaste on a soft-bristled toothbrush for at least two minutes twice a day.
“Some people think a toothbrush with hard bristles gets teeth cleaner, but hard bristles combined with vigorous brushing can actually damage gums, enamel and root surface over time,” says Dr. Marc Barnett, who works at the family dentistry practice.
Looking for the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance is a simple way to know that the product has been through rigorous testing and is safe. The ADA Seal was created in 1931 to help consumers make informed decisions about safe and effective consumer products.
“The requirements include backing claims, such as cavity fighting and tartar control, with scientific findings and complying with the standards for accuracy and truthfulness in advertising,” says Dr. Nick Matthews, a Springfield, MO dental crowns provider.
Brand doesn’t really matter, so that is mostly personal preference whether you like paste or gel, prefer a certain flavor or want the extra active ingredients. The most important thing is that you use it regularly to protect teeth.
“Let us know if you have a specific issue you’re concerned with like tooth sensitivity or whitening, and we can discuss solutions with you. It might be more effective to address sensitivity or staining with other treatment options instead of toothpaste,” says Dr. Kelly Barnett, a Springfield MO Invisalign provider.
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