Although most people refer to teeth cleaning
products as paste, toothpaste can also be a powder or gel that you use to clean
your teeth. Brushing your teeth twice each day, along with flossing and seeing your dentist regularly, helps improve your overall oral
health and get rid of food particles, bacteria, and plaque.
The American Dental Association explains that
toothpaste plays an important role in oral health as it helps to fight tooth
decay and gum disease. These days most toothpastes, powders and gels contain
fluoride, which helps keep the enamel on your teeth healthy while fighting
tooth decay.
Although the composition in toothpastes may
vary, with some touting the benefits of gum inflammation reduction and tooth
whitening, your dentist explains that all toothpastes contain the same ingredients.
Whatever brand of toothpaste you use, it will
contain gentle abrasives including hydrated aluminum oxide, magnesium
carbonate, phosphate salts, and dehydrated silica gels.
Known as, “Humectants, sorbitol and glycerol
are added to the toothpaste to keep it from drying out.
Natural gum, synthetic cellulose, mineral colloids,
or seaweed is used to thicken toothpaste giving it a homogenous texture and appearance.
According to your dentist, fluoride is added to the toothpaste to make
your teeth more resistant to dental carries and helps strengthen the enamel on
your teeth.
Flavoring is often added to toothpaste. These
flavorings, such as saccharin will not promote tooth decay.
Sodium lauryl sarcosinate is a detergent additive
that is used by manufacturers to make toothpaste foamy.
Your dentist explains that one of the
toughest decisions when it comes to buying toothpaste is deciding what one is
the best for you. With so many brands to choose from you almost need to have a
degree in toothpaste to make a selection.
Buying fluoride toothpaste is imperative with
fluoride toothpastes, gels, and powders regulated by the FDA or Food and Drug
Administration. All of these products will have a drug facts panel somewhere on
the packaging.
Look for toothpastes, gels, and powders that
carry the American Dental Association seal of approval. You can find a complete
list of toothpastes that are ADA approved on the American Dental Association website.
If your teeth are sensitive, look for
toothpaste that contains strontium chloride of potassium nitrate.
In order to fight the buildup of tartar or gingivitis,
your dentist recommends toothpastes with ingredients such as tirclosan, pyrophosphates,
or zinc citate.
If you are still unsure what toothpaste, gel
or powder is best for your needs, schedule an appointment with your dentist
today.
