Toothpaste is something most of us take for granted, though it’s something we use every day of our lives. If you just grab the first box of toothpaste you see, let’s take a look at some of the things you should consider when making this important choice.
ADA Approval
Chances are, if you are buying big brand toothpaste, it will have the ADA seal of approval. What does this approval mean? The American Dental Association’s board of scientific experts has deemed the product both safe and effective, which is why this should be the first criteria for choosing the toothpaste that is right for you. Once you get past this “test,” there are a number of specialty toothpastes on the market to consider:
Tartar Control Toothpaste
We all have a layer of bacteria on our teeth and underneath our gums, better known as plaque. If it’s not removed, it hardens into tartar and can lead to gum disease. Both plaque and tartar can be removed with regular dental cleanings, but you should do your best to minimize them in between your visits with proper home oral care.
Tartar control toothpaste contains gentle abrasive agents and surfactants that assist in removing plaque and tartar from your teeth. Not everyone is prone to the same amount of tartar and plaque buildup. If you tend to have issues with it, tartar control toothpaste can help.
Whitening Toothpaste
If you love your coffee and/or wine, there’s a good chance you will have issues with dental discoloration. This can be addressed through teeth whitening procedures, but may also be remedied with a whitening toothpaste. Since these kinds of toothpaste can cause sensitivity, they are not recommended for kids under 18 years old.
Toothpaste for Sensitive Teeth
Dental sensitivity may be experienced while eating or drinking hot or cold foods.If you or your children have sensitive teeth, there are some toothpaste that are formulated just for you. Strontium chloride or potassium nitrate may be included in the ingredients since They inhibit the passageways that go from the surface of your teeth to the nerves.
Children’s Toothpaste
For decades, the American Dental Association recommended that children use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste when they turn two. Now, the ADA advises parents place a tiny smear on their toothbrush when their teeth first erupt.
Older kids have specially formulated toothpaste that has flavors more conducive to their picky palates. Favorite movie and television characters are often placed on the tubes, not just as marketing gimmicks, but as a way to make the experience more fun. Remember to keep the amount to a pea size and teach your children to rinse with water to minimize ingestion.
