The Toothpaste aisle can be
overwhelming. So many brands claiming to whiten your teeth, reduce sensitivity,
tartar, or gingivitis…how do you know what is the best for you?
Let’s break it down, first: Brand
Name. I do not put emphasis on any one brand of toothpaste, I do however look
for the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance located on the box it’s
packaged in. Next, I listen to my oral health provider at maintenance
appointments to find out what challenges I have to overcome. Such as, ‘Do I
have a significant amount of tartar buildup?’ Then a tartar control toothpaste
would be advantages. ‘Do I have a lot of sensitivity going on?’ Then I would
try a toothpaste focused on sensitivity. Gingivitis toothpaste may be helpful
if bleeding hot-spots are a problem from time to time. Whitening toothpaste
will help with outside existing stains on teeth, such as coffee, tea, and tobacco.
Keep in mind whitening toothpaste limits how white you actually should expect
your teeth to get.
Toothpaste is meant to aid in
cleaning your teeth, not curing problems you should be seeing your dentist
about. Bottom line, you should use a toothpaste that tastes good to you, has an
ADA Seal, and fits your budget.
Happy brushing!
~Lynne
