In our last blog, we talked about using the best toothbrush for optimal oral health. All of us at Creekview Dental in Woodbury also think it’s important that our patients know how to choose the best toothpaste to keep their smiles healthy.
With so many options to choose from, selecting the right toothpaste can be a pretty overwhelming task. From pastes to gels, flavors to fluoride and whiteners, how can you be sure you’re using the right toothpaste?
Using toothpaste is important to help maintain optimal oral health in Woodbury. Although toothpaste comes in a variety of forms, there are some common ingredients in most toothpastes:
- Abrasive agents like calcium carbonate to help remove food, bacteria, and some stains.
- Flavoring which is often added to make toothpaste taste better.
- Substances like glycerol that helps prevent the paste from drying out.
If you have a higher risk of developing cavities, you should look for a toothpaste with fluoride. Fluoride is important in the fight against tooth decay and cavities, and helps protect your teeth by making tooth enamel stronger. Dr. John Haag sometimes recommends prescription-strength fluoride toothpaste for patients with a history of extensive cavities. This toothpaste must be purchased at a dental office.
Whitening toothpastes don’t actually whiten your teeth. They contain more abrasives than non-whitening toothpastes so they remove stain more effectively. The increase in abrasives can actually cause your tooth enamel to wear away more quickly.
Patients with medical or periodontal problems may benefit from an all natural toothpaste. Cancer patients frequently experience mouth sores from chemotherapy. This is caused by a decrease in the body’s ability to replace the cells of the mucous lining at a normal rate. Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetics are more susceptible than non-diabetics to developing serious gum disease that can lead to tooth loss, as are people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In all cases, the harsh additives found in conventional toothpastes exacerbate the conditions that make it more difficult for people living with these medical conditions to maintain optimal oral health.
If you are looking for the peace of mind that chemical-free products provide, we recommend Tooth & Gums Paste and Tonic from Dental Herb Company. This all natural toothpaste and rinse do not contain alcohol, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) or any other chemicals. The precisely calculated proportions of oils and herbs work synergistically to establish an environment that reduces oral bacteria, promotes healing and maintains healthy teeth and gums. We carry these products at our dentist office. Ask our dental hygienist, Liz, about them at your next checkup!
Don’t forget to keep up with your professional dental cleanings at Creekview Dental in Woodbury. If you’re due for your professional exam or teeth cleaning, give us a call and schedule your appointment today!
