We brush our teeth every day, but most people do not stop to think about the toothpaste they use. It is a crucial part of our oral hygiene routines and is responsible for keeping the teeth and mouth clean and for optimal dental health. If we took a minute to think about the toothpaste we use, we might be surprised to learn that there is a lot we do not know about it.
Fluoride Toothpaste
Dentists recommend fluoride toothpaste because it strengthens the teeth and prevents cavities. Fluoride does so by bonding with phosphate and calcium ions in our teeth, thereby repairing them. The bonds created during this process are stronger and more resistant to cavities than enamel alone.
Toothpaste typically uses one of two fluoride formulas: stannous or sodium fluoride. Sodium fluoride is much more common, but stannous fluoride also does a great job of keeping your teeth healthy and strong.
Whitening Toothpaste
If you want your teeth to be white and your smile brighter, you might consider bleaching or whitening them. Bleaching products contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, and they change the colour of the teeth in addition to cleaning them. Whitening toothpaste, on the other hand, only cleans the enamel without changing the colour of the teeth, and it works best if you use it regularly.
Whitening toothpaste contains abrasives that remove stains on the surface of the teeth. Even though they work very well to make the teeth white, some abrasives can cause teeth sensitivity in people with weak enamel.
You should ask a dentist if you need clarification about the best whitening toothpaste for you. A private Northwick dentist will recommend one, and they might also do an initial whitening to give you a great start.
Toothpaste Ingredients
Your toothpaste contains various ingredients that work together to ensure excellent oral health. Toothpaste contains fluoride and abrasives as discussed above, with the amount of abrasive depending on whether it is whitening toothpaste.
Toothpaste also contains humectants. These are substances that are used to reduce the loss of moisture. They are used in toothpaste to keep it and your mouth moist so that they do not dry out. Some of the humectants used include sorbitol, propylene glycol, and glycerol.
A toothpaste has to taste great, so manufacturers add flavouring. Although they taste sweet, manufacturers do not add sugar to toothpaste, instead using sweeteners like saccharin. Lastly, they add a thickening agent to stabilise the toothpaste.
Speciality Toothpaste
A dentist can also prescribe or recommend speciality toothpaste depending on your needs. A common type of speciality toothpaste is desensitising toothpaste, recommended for those with tooth sensitivity. Doctors can also prescribe prescription-strength fluoride toothpaste for those prone to cavities and tooth decay regardless of what oral hygiene steps they take.
Toothpaste for Children
Children who are not old enough to spit should not use toothpaste that has fluoride in it. Instead, they should use toothpaste containing xylitol, a natural sweetener. Also, choose a toothpaste with a flavour your child will like so they use it as required.
There is so much to know about your toothpaste, but learning about its ingredients and different types is vital for choosing the right one. If you do not know which one is right for you, consult your dentist for guidance.
