Do you have sensitive teeth or gums? Maybe you have stubborn surface stains on the visible portions of your teeth? Whatever your issue is, chances are there’s a toothpaste out there that satisfies your needs! Of course, knowing what to look for and how to find it can be difficult at first. That’s why your dentist in Superior wanted to lend a hand on how to choose the right toothpaste for your unique case. Keep reading to learn how!
Consider Your Needs
Sometimes toothpaste can’t offer a one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to your oral health, especially if you have a large family. As much as you’d like to buy that toothpaste value pack, some patients need toothpaste that caters to their specific needs.
With this in mind, you may need to buy toothpaste that your youngest family members will enjoy using. Perhaps your child has sensitive teeth or gums that react negatively to traditional toothpaste, forcing you to go a more natural route. Be sure to speak with all your family members and determine which toothpaste they prefer before heading to the store.
Take Note of Your Dentist’s Recommendation
Once you know what your family wants, it’s important you always choose a toothpaste that contains fluoride. According to your dentist, as well as the American Dental Association, fluoride is responsible for preventing tooth decay, gum disease, and removing plaque from the surface of teeth and gums. Without this key active ingredient, your toothpaste is purely cosmetic and cannot be recommended by your dentist.
Fluoride also works to strengthen your enamel and prevent erosion. Once enamel wears away, it’s gone forever, so don’t risk losing it because you chose a toothpaste that wasn’t fluoridated.
If Your Teeth Feel Sensitive After Brushing
Patients who are easily irritated by hot, cold, sweet, or acidic food and drinks will likely need a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth. These toothpastes typically contain potassium nitrate or strontium chloride, which both work to reduce sensitivity by blocking the pathways through the teeth that attach to nerves inside them.
If your family member mentions they still have sensitivity, inform them it can take a few weeks to offer relief. If they still experience sensitivity, ask your family dentist in Superior for a recommendation. Toothpastes designed for sensitive teeth will always state it on the front of their packaging.
If You Want a Whiter Smile
Many toothpastes also contain whitening agents, particles, and abrasives to remove surface stains from teeth. Thankfully, studies suggest that whitening toothpaste does no more damage to enamel than other types. However, if at any point you feel sensitivity while brushing, consider using your whitening toothpaste only a few times a week, swapping back and forth between a traditional toothpaste and your whitening one.
Looking for a recommendation from your dentist in Superior on toothpaste? Schedule an appointment with him today!
About the Author
Dr. Doug Clark Jr. earned his DDS degree from the Marquette University School of Dentistry. However, he’s always continuing his education through advanced dental training courses and by reading about the latest dentistry developments in professional journals. To learn more about his preventive care or practice, contact him through his website.