While toothpaste is a valuable adjunct to a toothbrush in oral hygiene, it is the
correct brushing action that removes the plaque (a sticky mixture of bacteria, food and debris)
from your teeth.
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…it is the correct brushing action that removes the plaque (a sticky mixture of
bacteria, food and debris) from your teeth.
|
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Fluoride
Any brand of toothpaste that contains fluoride is acceptable. It makes no difference if the
toothpaste is a gel, paste or powder, or which flavoring agent is used. However, from an
individual motivational standpoint, and assuring its use, these characteristics may be
important.
Other than fluoride, which strengthens the enamel and fights decay, toothpastes contain abrasives
to remove stains and polish the teeth and ingredients to leave the mouth with a clean, fresh
feeling.
Sensitive Teeth
If your teeth are sensitive to hot or cold, choose a desensitizing paste with either strontium
chloride or potassium nitrate as an added ingredient. Expect it to take about four to six weeks to see
improvement.
Tartar Control
Brands of toothpaste that advertise "tartar control" usually have the active
ingredient pyrophosphate. While it will not remove tartar, studies have shown it will reduce
tartar formation up to 36 percent. Tartar (calculus) really can only be removed with a professional
prophylaxis (cleaning).
Abrasiveness
Many toothpastes now contain baking soda, which is less abrasive. This is advantageous for
reducing tooth sensitivity in people with gum recession or for those who have eroded their teeth
by rigorous brushing with an abrasive toothpaste.
Whitening
Bleaching teeth to make them lighter has become popular. If you desire a whitening toothpaste,
look for the active whitening agents of carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide. These
toothpastes serve best to maintain the tooth shade after bleaching procedures. Contact your dentist
to discuss bleaching.
Dentures
If you wear partial or full dentures, they will stain and absorb odors. Ask your pharmacist
or dentist to recommend an accepted denture cleaning paste and/or solution.
When brushing, it is not necessary to overload your brush with toothpaste. Squeeze a pea-size
amount on the top of the bristles. Correct brushing techniques will cause the paste to foam and
cover all of your teeth.
Related Oral Health & Wellness Information
Oral Health & Wellness Content provided by Dentalxchange
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