What’s the Best Toothpaste for Your Smile? – Brenda Copeland, DDS – Longview, TX
Toothpaste is an important part of our oral
health care regimen, for it enhances effective brushing habits and helps the smile feel and look clean. A dentist-recommended toothpaste helps prevent decay, removes stains and bacteria, and eliminates bad breath. With so many toothpaste choices, each one offering unique qualities, it’s important to choose brands or toothpaste types that will properly care for your dentition.
What Should I look for in a Toothpaste?
Online research will reveal the most popular, or top-rated toothpaste options when looking for a toothpaste, but these standards do not always align with dental interests. Toothpastes should be dentist-recommended and provide cavity protection and support for healthy enamel. Flavor, or whether the toothpaste includes whitening depends on personal preference, and has no effect on cleanliness. Unless individuals have allergies to specific ingredients, such as cinnamon flavoring, toothpastes from trusted brands such as Colgate® and Crest® are perfectly acceptable.
Individuals with sensitive teeth or gums may want to use toothpaste designed to be gentle on the smile. Abrasiveness is measured on a scale, called the RDA Index. Many toothpastes with additional whitening and tartar control have high levels of abrasion, which can weaken enamel against decay. If you have sensitive teeth, using a less abrasive toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush may help improve the look and feel of your teeth.
All-Natural Toothpastes
Made with ingredients that are safe for the body, all-natural toothpastes are tailored to individuals who wish to avoid allergies in traditional toothpastes. These are made from ingredients such as mint, bamboo extracts, tea tree oils, and other natural ingredients. Generally, they offer a less abrasive brushing sensation, and a milder taste. It’s possible to even purchase an all-natural toothpaste with added fluoride, offering similar benefits to known brands. Before you commit to one of these toothpastes, however, it’s important to double-check their health benefits and to see if they will support your smile.
Visit Dr. Brenda Copeland, DDS for your Dental Care Needs
Our Longview dental practice provides dental treatments to care for your teeth and oral health. We can also help you choose a toothpaste that matches individual dental needs for a clean, bright smile. Call us today for an appointment!