As more and more brands of toothpaste hit the shelves in stores, people find themselves wondering which toothpaste is best and what benefit a certain brand will bring. To simplify the choices, we will discuss the most common elements in all toothpaste and what they mean to you.
The Basic Job of Toothpaste
Toothpaste is an abrasive substance that is used to clean, polish and protect your teeth. With a proper toothbrush and a good brushing technique, toothpaste can remove harmful plaque, help to prevent disease of the teeth and gums as well as suppress bad breath. Most toothpaste formulations include fluoride to protect your teeth from decay even before the slightest indication of decay becomes visible.
Contrary to long time habits and commercials promoting toothpaste, you only need a pea sized amount of the paste on the upper half of your toothbrush. You should hold the brush at a 45 degree angle to your teeth and brush inside, outside and in between your teeth for a thorough cleaning.
Toothpaste containing potassium nitrate or strontium chloride are used to help reduce tooth sensitivity.
Whitening pastes make claims to whiten your teeth, which when used for a minimum 4-week period may show some improvement in color, but these pastes will not remove dark stains and cannot alter the natural color of your teeth. Since excessive use may damage tooth enamel, it is best to have your teeth whitened by a professional, your dentist.
Which Toothpaste is for You?
The most accurate answer is to ask your dentist. Your dentist knows the history of your oral health, and which commercially made toothpaste is best for you.
If you don’t have a dentist, call White Oak Family Dental in Calgary for a consultation and complete an oral exam before embarking on any treatments for whitening or cosmetic dentistry.
White Oak Family Dental has been practicing in Calgary for over a decade and the professionals are well known for their gentle and caring approach to even the most severe dental problems.
If your immediate dental concern is more than which toothpaste to use, call White Oak Family Dental today for an honest, caring, and gentle way to bring your teeth to a beautiful, bright, and healthy smile.
