What are tooth pastes! According to the American Dental Association (ADA), “Toothpastes are pastes, gels or powders that help remove plaque, a film of bacteria that forms on teeth and gums.” These make the brushing action of your toothbrush more effective.
ADA approved toothpastes have scientific evidence that it is safe. Toothpaste can have many uses such as cavity fighters, enamel repair, whitening toothpaste and reduce sensitivity in your teeth.You also have the natural toothpastes.When choosing toothpaste make sure that they contain fluoride, a very important consideration.
Ingredients of a toothpaste, and what they are for:
Fluoride: By far the most important ingredient of all. Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay by reinforcing enamel minerals and slowing down enamel breakdown. Always ensure your toothpaste has fluoride.
Abrasive agents: Remove plaque and stains without damaging enamel. They are mild acting and some of the whitening toothpastes may contain more abrasives. Please check the ingredients before buying.
Detergent: This ingredient creates a foaming action in the toothpaste. People with increased risk of getting mouth ulcers, should avoid toothpaste that contains Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS).
Anti-drying agents: This agent prevents water loss in the toothpaste, so that the toothpaste does not dry up and get hard. Most toothpastes have it.
Thickening agents: These act as binders to stabilize the toothpaste.
Flavouring agents: Flavouring and artificial sweeteners give the toothpaste a pleasant taste. No health benefits here.
Types of toothpaste:
Tartar/ Plaque Control: Fluoride works best to remove plaque, but with time, plaque build-up on your teeth and gums will harden into tartar. Tartar control toothpaste helps prevent tartar, however regular thorough deep cleaning by your dental team is highly recommended.These types of toothpastes can also help control bad breath. Look for a toothpaste that contains fluoride, along with pyrophosphates and zinc citrate.
Strengthening toothpaste: This usually refers to strengthening your enamel. Thesetoothpastes contain fluoride and are less abrasive.
Whitening Toothpaste: We all want our teeth to be sparkling white, but many of the foods and drinks we consume stain our teeth. Whitening toothpaste usually contains abrasives to remove stains, and does not contain any bleaching agent. The professional teeth whitening either in the dental surgery or at home whitening procedures have better result in lightening your teeth. Be careful with these!
Sensitive Toothpaste: This type of toothpaste contains desensitizing ingredients to help reduce the pain. It may, however, take several weeks of use before you get relief. These toothpastes have to be used in a regular basis to see consistent effect.I have recommended sensitive toothpaste multiple times to friends and family, including my mum and dad.
Natural Toothpaste:These toothpastes contain only natural ingredients. However, all dental professionals recommend toothpaste which has fluoride in its minimal concentration for effective oral hygiene. Please consult your dental professional before using these on regular basis.
Always select tooth paste which are age appropriate. It is recommended to use toothpaste when your child’s first tooth appears. Always use right amount of toothpaste as per the age of the child. For example, a smear of toothpaste until 3 years of age, and a pea-size amount for older children.
Finding the perfect toothpaste for you or your family is usually daunting. With so many different types available in a supermarket aisle, we are spoilt for choices. Hope this guide helps to make the right choice.