Which Toothpaste Is Best For Me?
by Dr. Rita Dargham D.M.D.
Read Which Toothpaste Is Best For Me? by Dr. Rita Dargham D.M.D. to learn more about Grove Smiles® Dentistry and our Dentistry office in Coconut Grove, FL.
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As we walk down the dental hygiene section of our chosen store, we are surrounded with so many choices in toothpastes. But which toothpaste is really the best for me?
This quest can be stressful enough. To add to the stress, do you find that your bathroom cupboards are now filling with many half used tubes of toothpaste in your constant search for the best toothpaste that will do all the magic in one easy brush?
If so, learn what some of the simple and common basic ingredients are and what they are designed to do in regards to optimal oral health.
The Dental Dictionary
Here is a list of basic ingredients that you might want to look out for when researching toothpastes:
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate – This chemical helps create foam when you brush your teeth making your teeth feel especially squeaky-clean. If you have sensitive gums or are prone to getting canker sores, you may want to try a toothpaste that doesn’t include this chemical as it is harsh on your mouth.
Tetrasodium Pyrophosphate – This ingredient helps keep the tartar from building up on your teeth. While this is normally not a big deal, the active ingredient can only work if it is dissolved in a stronger chemical, which can affect people who are sensitive to high pH levels.
Silica – This is the slightly abrasive material that is used to polish the teeth. Most whitening toothpastes include this ingredient and it is probably why your dentist will advise you to take a break from whitening toothpaste every now and then. If you are noticing more sensitivity in your teeth and gums, take a break from whitening toothpastes and go to your dentist instead for a professional cleaning.
Saccharin – Saccharin is an artificial sweetener that is used to balance the bitter flavor that toothpaste would be without it. Even though it sounds like it’s a type of sugar, it doesn’t actually harm your teeth or cause decay. The only worry about saccharin is that it has conflicting reports on safety (Saccharin was linked to cancer in studies done in the past) and young kids may end up swallowing a lot of toothpaste accidentally.
We Can Help!
These days, you can find all sorts of different toothpastes (whitening, tartar control, breath control, advanced, sensitive teeth, enamel health, etc.). There are also many “natural” toothpastes to add to your confusion.
To help you find the toothpaste that works best for you and that you are most comfortable with feel free to call us at Grove Smiles Dentistry at 305-858-0505 or make an appointment here with Dr. Stephen J. Parr who has been practicing in the Coconut Grove, FL area for over 30 years.
For Your Health,
Dr. Rita Dargham D.M.D.
