It’s hard to imagine life without toothpaste. Since it was invented by the Egyptians in 4 AD, toothpaste has been a staple in our oral hygiene routine. But the team at Stellar Kids Dentistry in Mukilteo, Mill Creek, and Everett, Washington, know that finding the best toothpaste for you and your family is harder than it seems.
Most of us buy toothpaste based on sales and flavor preferences. However, with so many different types of toothpaste to choose from, it’s important to find one that helps you and your family achieve your oral health goals.
What is toothpaste?
Toothpaste is a paste or gel-like material that helps remove plaque, bacteria, and debris from your teeth and gums. It helps prevent cavities, gum disease, and other common dental concerns in children and adults.
While they typically contain the same basic ingredients, not all toothpastes are created equal. Depending on your current oral health practices and future goals, the type of toothpaste you use at home can make all the difference in the way your teeth look and feel.
Are there different types of toothpaste?
Toothpaste comes in many different forms, including pastes, powders, and gels. There are many different types of toothpaste to choose from, but the most common are:
Fluoride toothpaste
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that helps prevent tooth decay by strengthening your enamel. It’s recommended for both children and adults alike to protect your teeth from enamel erosion.
While drinking water and certain foods naturally contain fluoride, it works best to protect your oral health when applied directly to your teeth. With fluoride in your arsenal, you can wave goodbye to your next tooth cavity.
Children’s toothpaste
Tooth brushing likely isn’t your child’s favorite part of the day. Toothpaste in general typically doesn’t taste very appetizing for young children. Fortunately, there are plenty of kid-friendly toothpaste options to choose from.
Many types of children’s toothpaste come in fun packaging and sweet flavors to make brushing an enjoyable experience for your kids. Most children’s toothpaste doesn’t contain fluoride. If your pediatric dentist recommends fluoride for your child, you can use a rice-sized amount along with some toothpaste.
Whitening toothpaste
If you’re unhappy with yellow teeth that simply don’t sparkle when you smile, you’re not alone. Professional teeth whitening is one of the most popular services in cosmetic dentistry. But it isn’t your only option for a brighter smile.
Whitening toothpaste is effective at eliminating surface stains, but it’s important to choose a brand that doesn’t contain harsh abrasives to eliminate surface stains. The best whitening toothpaste contains either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide to remove stains without damaging your teeth.
Tartar control toothpaste
Tartar is hardened plaque — a sticky film of bacteria — that can form on your teeth. It’s difficult to remove without routine brushing and flossing. If your child is prone to tartar buildup, your Stellar Kids Dentistry dentist may recommend a tartar control toothpaste to prevent plaque and decay.
Toothpaste for tooth sensitivity
Do you sometimes wince when drinking a cold glass of water? If you’re struggling with tooth pain or tooth sensitivity, you may have dentin hypersensitivity. Tooth enamel protects your dentin from exposure, but enamel erosion from teeth grinding, cavities, or damage can leave your teeth sensitive.
A toothpaste for tooth sensitivity can desensitize your teeth to relieve pain and discomfort. Many products for tooth sensitivity also contain fluoride, which protects against tooth decay.
The best type of toothpaste is one that you look forward to using! To find out which type of toothpaste is right for you and your family, schedule a routine visit with Stellar Kids Dentistry or book an appointment online today!