Have you ever found yourself in a department store staring at the colorful stacked boxes of toothpaste, wondering which to choose? If this sounds like a situation you have been in, this blog is for you. We discussed choosing the right toothbrush in the past, and today we will talk about selecting the right toothpaste as per individual needs.
Every toothpaste has some basic ingredients, which include:
- Abrasives like calcium carbonate and silica provide a polishing action.
- Humectants are added to retain water and prevent toothpaste from drying.
- Active ingredients like fluoride serve to provide a specific effect.
- Detergents are added to provide a cleansing action.
- Flavoring agents like peppermint, lemon, etc., are added to provide a desirable taste to the toothpaste.
- Dyes are added for color.
- Water forms the base of the toothpaste.
- Anti-plaque toothpaste helps control the accumulation of plaque and also reduces the bacterial action in the mouth. The active ingredients of such toothpaste are pyrophosphates, zinc citrate, triclosan (antibiotic agent). If you have gum diseases, search a toothpaste with these ingredients.
- Fluoridated toothpaste has fluoride as an active ingredient which strengthens the tooth structure and also prevents tooth decay. Dr. Sanz at Southern Delaware Dental Specialists will recommend you opt for fluoridated toothpaste if you suffer from dental cavities. It can also be used for preventive measures, especially in areas where water is deficient in fluoride.
- If you suffer from teeth sensitivity, opt for a desensitizing toothpaste where the active ingredient is potassium nitrate or strontium nitrate. It blocks the exposed dentinal tubules, thus alleviating teeth sensitivity.
- Toothpaste with carbamide peroxide helps to whiten teeth but must be used cautiously under a dentist’s guidance.
- Toothpaste for kids is special as they contain less fluoride and fewer abrasives and are perfect for their new tiny pearly whites.
