When most people wander into the drugstore in search of toothpaste, the preferences they keep in mind don’t tend to align with what a dentist thinks about when choosing toothpaste. Most people think about taste, how that one says “Whitening”, how this one says “Tartar Control”.

Here is what you should know about toothpaste – straight from the Dentist!

More Is Not Better

We suggest using a pea-sized amount of toothpaste when brushing your teeth. The more toothpaste we use, the more foam it creates; this may feel like we’re cleaning more, but all this foam means you can’t see where you’re brushing.
Tip: Choose a Low-Foam toothpaste.

The Result Is Up To You

Did you know you can still clean your teeth without toothpaste? Just by using the toothbrush and water, you can still clean your teeth. Toothpaste has all sorts of good things in it to kill bacteria and keep your break smelling nice, but the results are up to you. Just putting toothpaste on your teeth doesn’t clean them – you are the machine that cleans them. You have to do the work to achieve the results!
Tip: Dentists recommend brushing for at least 2 minutes twice per day!

Don’t Be Abrasive

Many common toothpastes are highly abrasive, meaning that the toothpaste contains a lot of abrasives that are supposed to help clean the teeth. However, what these toothpastes with high abrasiveness actually do is strip away tooth enamel which results in a sensitivity to cold and hot, as well as sweets.
Another problem abrasive toothpaste cause is wearing away the tooth at the gum line which leads to structural compromises and may require fillings.
Tip: Toothpaste abrasiveness is measured by the Relative Dentin Abrasivity (RDA). Choose toothpaste with a lower RDA rating to prevent future problems and restorative dentistry. You can find an RDA Index here.

Get Enough Flouride

Almost all toothpaste include fluoride. Fluoride mixes with tooth enamel to prevent tooth decay. It also mixes with your saliva to protect your teeth from bacteria that would otherwise stick to your teeth such as plaque and sugar.
Tip: Besides brushing your teeth twice a day, drink plenty of water and consider using a mouthwash as well!

Phase Out Triclosan

Trilcosan can be found in a lot of consumer products these days, including toothpaste. Its main function is to prevent bacterial contamination. However, certain studies are showing that triclosan can alter hormone regulation as well as contribute to making bacteria resistant to antibiotics. Triclosan is currently being phased out of toothpaste.
Tip: We suggest avoiding toothpaste that contains triclosan; check the list of ingredients of toothpaste boxes to be sure!

If you have any more questions about choosing a toothpaste, ask us! Call (604) 566-7777 for more information or too book an appointment today!