It may seem like a simple task, but if you feel overwhelmed and confused by the wide variety of toothpastes available these days, you’re not alone. So, what should you look for in a toothpaste? And how do you know which one is right for you? Here are our tips…
- Check for fluoride
Fluoride is a very important ingredient, so when you choose a toothpaste, take a look at what it contains. Some of the most common forms of fluoride include sodium fluoride, sodium monofluorophosphate, and stannous fluoride. The latter has the added benefit of being antibacterial, and is helpful in preventing decay and gum disease.Fluoride helps to strengthen teeth and prevent decay from occurring. While most water sources contain the natural mineral, it can be helpful to use a toothpaste that contains the ingredient as well. That said, we recommend that you come in for a consultation before opting for a high-fluoride toothpaste so that we can confirm whether or not it’s right for you. - Manage your sensitivity
If you suffer from tooth sensitivity, it can be helpful to try a toothpaste that has been specially formulated to provide relief. There are a number of choices when it comes to sensitive toothpaste, some of which contain potassium nitrate and potassium citrate. These kinds of formulas stop the nerves from transmitting signals, providing some relief from sensitivity.Other sensitive toothpastes contain ingredients like strontium and arginine, and work by blocking the pores in the roots of the teeth in order to desensitise them against extreme temperatures. These toothpastes have varying levels of success and we do recommend that you come in for a check-up if you’re really struggling with sensitivity. The condition could be caused by an underlying oral health issue, in which case we will recommend the relevant treatment. - Consider whitening benefits
There are a number of toothpastes on the market that claim to whiten your smile. These work with the help of mild abrasives that prevent staining and clean the teeth. Other options include a bleaching agent called hydrogen peroxide, which can help to remove stains over time. If you want to brighten your teeth, however, we recommend that you consider a professional whitening treatment instead of a store-bought product. Our take-home systems are simple to use and achieve very effective results. The kit includes a tooth whitening solution, as well as custom-made plastic trays that fit your upper and lower teeth. If you would like to find out more about how the system works, take a look here.
If you have any questions about your oral health or would like some advice on how best to keep your teeth and gums healthy, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
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