Dental Tips: A Guide on Choosing Toothpastes

"Every individual’s teeth are unique with respect to the condition they are in. Therefore, it is important that the choice of a toothpaste be made after due consultation with a qualified dentist. A dentist first examines the oral condition of an individual and only then recommends a specific type of toothpaste, which will prove effective in remedying the issues that require resolution.

Some toothpaste brands have ingredients that prove effective in tartar control, whereas others are used for desensitizing sensitive teeth.

It is important that the toothpaste used by you, is approved by the American Dental Association
(ADA). ADA grants approval to only those toothpaste brands that meet its criteria for effectiveness, safety, and scientific support for claims made through toothpaste advertisements.

To such approved brands of toothpastes, ADA grants a certification that contains ADA's Seal of Acceptance.

Some toothpaste brands may meet ADA's criteria of safety and effectiveness. However, their manufacturers may choose not to apply for ADA's approval. Therefore, their performance will not have been really tested and verified as meeting minimum norms set by ADA. So, their toothpastes cannot be always relied upon to give the requisite performance.

Toothpaste brands that contain fluoride are good for teeth as they help prevent cavities in teeth. However, some of these brands are specifically not meant to be used by children below six years. This is because such children tend to swallow toothpaste. Further, too much fluoride in toothpaste can result in discoloration of permanent teeth.

Besides all these medically significant factors, personal preferences also do play a role in the choice of toothpaste brands by people. Some people like a spearmint flavor, whereas others like some other flavor. Gel-based or paste-based brands all compete for people’s attention. Some people change brands periodically for variety.

Toothbrushes are also available in the market in umpteen brands, designs, colors, head size, and bristle types. Hard bristle toothbrushes need to be used with caution as they may be harsh on gums. Soft bristles are good for teeth as well as gums.

Head size of a toothbrush should be large enough to clean teeth quickly, but should be sufficiently compact so as to easily move about in the mouth, without causing injury to gums. Choose a head size that is comparatively smaller in the case of children.

Bristle contour is another factor that merits attention. It should be chosen based on the advice of a dentist. Different types of bristle contours help effectively clean differently shaped and conditioned teeth and gums.

In any case, toothbrushes need to be replaced by new ones at least every three months, as by then the bristles have lost their contour. They will be worn, look misshapen or frayed. In no case should toothbrushes be dipped in hot water, as then the life of bristles is reduced and their shape and contour goes easily out of form."


Reference Link: http://www.dental-tips.com/basics/hygiene/oral-health-and-care-a-guide-on-choosing-toothpastes.html