Some choices in life aren’t as easy as they first appear. Take choosing a toothpaste for example. “That’s easy,” you may say. “One is as good as another.” In truth, however, toothpastes can differ greatly in terms of the benefits they offer. Here are some tips from a family dentist in Ellington for making this important decision.

The Absolute Essentials

Whichever toothpaste brand you choose should have these important features:

• It should have the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of acceptance on its packaging. This is important because many so-called “natural” toothpaste brands have ingredients which have not been proven safe through standard scientific testing.
• It should contain fluoride. Thousands of studies by researchers across the globe have confirmed that fluoride is both safe and effective in the concentrations used by toothpaste manufacturers. Fluoride plays a major role in preventing cavities and enhancing overall dental health. If you have any concerns about this topic, then consult your family dentist in Ellington.
• It should be an established brand made by a reputable manufacturer. Toothpaste costs so little per use that trying to save a few pennies with an off-brand product makes almost no economic sense. If you’re concerned about the cost of major brands, then look for money-saving coupons online or in your local paper.
• It should be age-appropriate. Some toothpastes are best reserved for older children and adults because of certain ingredients they contain, such as abrasives and whiteners. You’ll find this information on the packaging or at the company website. What about Specialty Features?

You can find a wide variety of “advanced” toothpastes on today’s market that make all sorts of specialized claims. But are these products safe and effective? Here are some helpful guidelines to keep in mind:

• Some of the ingredients in specially toothpaste may irritate the user’s teeth and gums. Examples include additives used to promote whitening. People with special sensitivities may be better off avoiding these products.
• There’s nothing wrong with a toothpaste being both effective and pleasant to use. For example, some people prefer “minty” gel-type products to traditional formulas. This is perfectly fine as long as the product has the ADA seal of acceptance and the user experiences no adverse effects.

Do Whitening Toothpastes Really Whiten Teeth?

Many toothpaste manufacturers say that their products whiten teeth. But do these claims stand up to the evidence? It’s important to remember that no non-prescription product can whiten teeth in the same way that dentist-prescribed products can. However, some over-the-counter toothpastes do contain mild abrasives that can help to polish the teeth and remove mild surface discolorations.

What about Baking Soda?

Many older Americans grew up using baking soda, also known as “sodium bicarbonate.” The biggest drawback to using baking soda to brush your teeth is that it contains no fluoride, a crucial ingredient for aiding tooth re-mineralization and preventing cavities. For this reason, most dentists recommend sticking with an established brand.

When all is said and done, the type of toothpaste you use is less important than how often you use it. Brushing after every meal is a practice that all of us should cultivate. So give your teeth and gums the care they deserve and see your dentist every six months to enjoy maximum dental health.

About the Author

Doctor Warren Zahner earned his DMD degree from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine. He opened his Ellington clinic in 1989 and has served the people of our area with pride and distinction ever since. You can reach his office online or by calling (860) 870-9031.