Toothpaste is a part of everyone’s daily ritual, although the toothpastes being used can vary wildly between people due to a variety of different needs. Despite this, one thing is consistent among toothpastes – fluoride. Fluoride is the magic ingredient that helps fight acids that naturally occur in the body, as well as those present in food, from eating away at the enamel of teeth and eventually causing cavities.
Due to these properties of fluoride, basic no frills toothpaste should contain at least some fluoride. Special toothpastes add other ingredients to toothpaste to introduce several other advantages that people can take advantage of. We list some of the most popular here:
Whitening Toothpastes
Depending on the brand chosen, whitening toothpastes employ chemicals that act as a bleaching agent, and occasionally introduce abrasive elements that scrub away stains from teeth, at the cost of your valuable enamel. The whitening is thus caused by the physical removal of stained teeth – although this is not always the case, it’s important to do your research. If you want to play it safe, we highly recommend you consult your dentist and use a take-home tooth whitening kit.
Tartar-control Toothpastes
Tartar control toothpaste is very useful for ensuring that tartar (hardened plaque) build up is prevented. Although we recommend tartar control toothpastes, they cannot simply remove tartar – it is necessary for your dentist to manage existing tartar deposits on your teeth.
Toothpaste for sensitive teeth
Sensitive teeth are caused by a variety of different things, two of which being age and overly aggressive brushing. Sensitive toothpaste on the market today typically use either strontium chloride and potassium nitrate to manage the sensitivity that result from gums revealing the nerves of your teeth.
Children’s Toothpaste
Unlike the mint-focused toothpaste made for adults, children’s toothpaste is produced in sweet (although still sugar free) flavours that children tend to enjoy. As there are numerous flavours available, you can try out a few so that your child can find their favourite.
Children’s toothpaste is also typically lower or free from fluoride, as children may swallow their toothpaste regularly (especially if it tastes good), and it is not recommended that large amounts of fluoride be ingested by humans.
Still like to learn more about toothpaste?
If you’re still curious about how toothpaste works, or the ideal toothpaste for you, get in touch with Bay Street Dental Group today – our knowledgeable staff are always ready to lend a hand.
