There are many different kinds of toothpaste on the market today and with all the available choices, you may be looking for reasons to choose one type over another.
Medical News Today suggests considering the following factors when choosing toothpaste:
- Fluoride content.There are toothpastes that contain fluoride and those that are fluoride-free. The topic has been a controversial one and while the American Dental Association (ADA) and most dentists believe fluoride is safe and reduces cavities, some people may want to avoid fluoride in water and toothpaste.
- ADA approval.The ADA gives its stamp of approval to products that contain fluoride, are free of sugar flavoring agents, have ingredients that improve oral hygiene and when scientific evidence supports their safe use.
- Toothpaste ingredients. Labels list the ingredients, and people who are sensitive to certain chemicals can be sure to avoid them.
- Dental needs.Some people have particular dental needs. Perhaps they want to whiten their teeth. There are products that use abrasive chemicals to remove stains from the surface of teeth. For someone with sensitive teeth, this type of toothpaste could worsen their problem and a better choice would be one that contains de-sensitizing compounds such as potassium nitrate, which helps block pain. Prescription toothpaste is also available for sensitive teeth when over-the-counter (OTC) options are not effective enough.
- RDA level. Toothpastes vary in the degree to which they whiten or clean teeth. In fact relative dentin abrasivity (RDA) is a term used for rating to what extent the product is abrasive. Typically, the ADA considers safe products that are rated 250 RDA or less. A higher RDA can potentially harm your teeth.
- Tartar control. Some types of toothpaste are designed to control tartar, which is caused by plaque buildup. The types of chemicals that tartar control toothpaste often contains are zinc citrate and pyrophosphates.
- Natural ingredients. Holistic dentists often recommend toothpastes that contain natural ingredients, such as baking soda as an abrasive agent instead of chemicals. Natural toothpaste may be also preferable for patients who have concerns about fluoride.
Do You Have Questions About Dental Care?
Our dentists at Hutto Hippo Family Dental are glad to answer your questions and help you choose the right dental care for your needs.
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