When you shop for a new tube of toothpaste, what is the first thing you look for? If you said “price” or “flavor” you’re certainly not alone. Here at Stellar Kids Dentistry in Mukilteo, Mill Creek, and Everett, Washington, we know how important it is to align your dental care needs with your family’s budget and tastes. But that doesn’t mean they’re the only factors to consider when shopping for toothpaste.
For the best oral health care possible, we always recommend tailoring your toothpaste to your specific needs and dental deficiencies. The right toothpaste for adults is often different from the best toothpaste for kids. Fortunately, our pediatric dentists have appropriate toothpaste recommendations for your whole family.
Best types of toothpaste for…
Cavity Prevention
Cavities are common in people of all ages, but children are especially vulnerable to tooth decay. This occurs for many reasons, including diet and oral hygiene habits, but the natural makeup of baby teeth is at the top of the list. Milk teeth have thinner protective enamel than permanent teeth, so plaque and bacteria have plenty of opportunities to cause cavities.
To combat tooth decay, look for toothpastes containing fluoride. This naturally occurring mineral strengthens your bones, including your teeth, which helps prevent cavities. Many toothpastes containing fluoride have the words “cavity prevention” or “anti-cavity toothpaste” on the tube.
Braces
Brushing with braces can be extremely challenging for people of all ages, but especially adolescents and teens. It’s crucial to brush around each bracket for a clean, healthy smile. Fortunately, the best toothpaste for cavity prevention also works for braces. Look out for toothpastes containing fluoride, which can help prevent enamel erosion in those with braces.
Yellow Teeth
Yellow teeth in children should always be examined by a pediatric dentist, but in adults it’s often the result of stains. For adults and older teenagers with tooth discoloration, a whitening toothpaste can effectively eliminate new stains. Most whitening toothpastes explicitly advertise their brightening effects, so they should be labelled in the toothpaste aisle.
Sensitive Teeth
While sensitive teeth are more common with age, children aren’t immune to the condition. In fact, many children experience tooth sensitivity when their new permanent teeth start to erupt. In adults, sensitive teeth typically stem from enamel wear, which leaves the teeth exposed. There are many types of toothpaste for sensitive teeth, including Sensodyne.
Oral Hygiene Tips for Children and Adults
No oral hygiene routine is complete without the right toothpaste, but that isn’t the only factor to consider. Along with high-quality toothpaste that cares for your family’s teeth, you should:
- Floss at least twice a day, but preferably after every meal.
- Schedule a dental exam and teeth cleaning twice a year.
- Rinse with fluoride mouthwash.
- Talk to your kids’ dentist about any changes to your child’s oral health.
- Schedule an orthodontic evaluation for your child by age 7.
For more information about the best toothpaste for children, teens, and adults, don’t hesitate to reach out to the experienced dentists at Stellar Kids Dentistry. Call the location nearest you or book an appointment online to learn more!