A walk down the oral health aisle at your favorite big box store or pharmacy can be a bit overwhelming. How do you know which is the best toothpaste brand for you and each member of your family? There are likely at least ten brands from which to choose with multiple options of each kind.
All these choices are a good thing. Recent advances in dental care products have produced toothpaste formulas that target specific issues like sensitive teeth, bleeding gums or dry mouth as well as desired outcomes such as whiter teeth and fresher breath.
Choosing the right toothpaste requires a bit of strategy:
- First, look for the American Dental Association’s (ADA) Seal of Acceptance on the product packaging. The seal means the toothpaste meets the ADA’s requirements for safety and effectiveness and that all advertising claims are backed by documented, scientifically-sound proof.
- Then, make sure the toothpaste contains fluoride, a mineral that is often called nature’s cavity fighter because it helps make tooth enamel more resistant to the harmful acids that form in our mouths when we eat.
- Next, evaluate what benefits you want from your toothpaste and do a bit of research online or at the store to find the brand and type that works best for you (see the list below for helpful criteria to consider).
- Now, decide whether you prefer paste, gel or powder toothpaste.
- Don’t forget to select the best toothbrush for your mouth based on the size of the toothbrush head, firmness of the bristles and manual vs. electric models.
Listed below are some toothpaste options you should consider.
Whitening
Want a brighter smile? There are a variety of options of toothpaste that contain ingredients that can lessen the appearance of stains on your teeth. Hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide are common whitening agents, as well as baking soda and activated charcoal.
Bad Breath
Want fresher breath? Proper brushing to remove odor-causing bacteria is the most effective way to prevent bad breath. But there are a variety of flavors from which to pick to give your breath a fresh scent. Pick from mint, cinnamon, bubble gum and fruity flavors to name a few. Some types of toothpastes even contain mouthwash.
Sensitive Teeth/Gums
When dentin, the layer of tooth below the enamel, is exposed, brushing teeth can be painful. If you experience this issue, pick a toothpaste formulated especially for sensitive teeth. MI Paste is a great brand that we support for sensitive teeth. Look for an option that contains potassium nitrate, which helps block the pain caused by contact, and stannous fluoride, which help strengthen teeth.
Best Natural Toothpaste Brand
If you prefer organic ingredients, look for natural toothpaste options, but make sure it has the ADA seal of approval. The Tom’s of Maine brand is a good choice that contains naturally occurring fluoride.
Canker Sores
If you suffer from canker sores, avoid toothpastes that contain Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS). Sodium Lauryl Sulfate is a chemical compound helps toothpaste foam in your mouth. SLS can cause mouth sores in people with a sensitivity to the chemical. Look for a brand called Verve that is generally available at Whole Foods or online at Amazon.
Children
Getting kids to brush can sometimes be a challenge. Help your children develop good oral health habits early by getting them involved in picking out what toothpaste they want to use. Let them select a special flavor or label with a favorite featured character from TV or movies.
Toothpaste Brands for Travel
Dental care while traveling is simpler if you choose smaller packaged versions of your favorite toothpaste or ask you dentist for a sample-size tube of toothpaste.
If you still have questions or concerns about what is the best toothpaste brand for you, ask your dentist or dental hygienist at Shorewood Family Dental Care for a recommendation.
