Brush Up on Toothpaste

Shopping for toothpaste can be confusing. Different types promise everything from whiter smiles and fresher breath to fewer bacteria and less tartar.¹ How do you know which one is best for you?

Personal preference is important, but be sure to choose a brand with fluoride, which helps protect teeth from decay, according to the American Dental Association (ADA). Also, look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance,² which shows that a toothpaste has been evaluated for safety and effectiveness.¹

The next step is to think about whether you have any special needs. Examples include extra-sensitive teeth, stains, or gum disease.¹ If so, here are some options to consider:

• Desensitizing toothpastes. These products help reduce tooth pain brought on by cold, heat, or sticky or acidic foods. They contain compounds that help block signals sent from the tooth surface to the nerve.³ But such toothpastes generally need to be used for at least a month before teeth start to feel less sensitive.⁴

• Whitening toothpastes. These products contain polishing or chemical agents that help remove surface stains on the teeth.⁵ They can make the teeth brighter and shinier.⁴ But they can’t remove deeper stains the way professional bleaching can.⁵

• Antigingivitis toothpastes. Gingivitis is a condition in which the gums become red and swollen and can bleed easily. Left untreated, it can lead to more serious gum disease and eventually tooth loss.⁶ You can buy toothpastes with ingredients that help fight gingivitis.¹

• Tartar-control toothpastes. These products help prevent the buildup of tartar,⁴ hardened deposits on the teeth that play host to bacteria. Just keep in mind that no toothpaste can remove tartar once it has formed. Only a professional dental cleaning can do that.⁶

¹ “ ADA Seal of Acceptance Program.” American Dental Association. www.ada.org/1322.aspx Accessed 2010.

² “Cleaning Your Teeth and Gums: Frequently Asked Questions.” Oral Health Topics, American Dental Association. www.ada.org/2624.aspx Accessed 2010.

³ “Sensitive Teeth.” American Dental Association. www.ada.org/3058.aspx?currentTab=1 Accessed 2010.

⁴ “Why Is Brushing with Toothpaste Important?” Academy of General Dentistry, March 29, 2007. www.agd.org/support/articles/?ArtID=1134 Accessed 2010.

⁵ “ ADA Statement on the Safety and Effectiveness of Tooth Whitening Products.” American Dental Association, February 11, 2008. www.ada.org/1902.aspx Accessed 2010.

⁶ “Periodontal (Gum) Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments.” National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, April 10, 2010. www.nidcr.nih.gov/oralhealth/topics/gumdiseases/periodontalgumdisease.htm Accessed 2010.