Frequently Asked Dental Questions: Choosing a Toothpaste

Almost everyone has a question about some aspect of their oral health, but plenty go unasked. People assume we’re too busy, or worry the question sounds silly. It never does. So we’ve gathered one of the most commonly wondered-about questions and answered it here, with more to come in future articles.

A quick aside worth knowing: one toothpaste doesn’t necessarily suit the whole family, young children, for instance, may need a different type.

What's the best type of toothpaste?

Toothpaste is a basic necessity, which makes each of us a target for marketing, and that can make the claims hard to sift through. The reassuring news is that, with so many options, there’s almost certainly one that suits you. But here’s the key point: if you’re not consistent with brushing and flossing, no toothpaste will rescue your smile. What you put on the brush matters far less than actually using it.

That said, if you’re rethinking your choice, here are a few things to weigh up.

Fluoride or fluoride-free

Some toothpastes contain fluoride and some don’t. Fluoride is widely studied and regarded as safe and effective at protecting against decay, and it’s the option most dentists recommend. If you have personal reasons for preferring not to use it, a fluoride-free natural toothpaste is an alternative, though it’s worth discussing the trade-offs with us.

Flavourings and sensitivities

Some people react to ingredients in toothpaste, so it’s worth reading the label if you have known sensitivities. The classic minty flavour is a plus for many and something to avoid for others, so choose what genuinely suits you.

Sensitive teeth and abrasiveness

If your teeth are particularly sensitive, look for a desensitising toothpaste, which often contains compounds that help block pain signals from the teeth. And if tooth wear is a concern, note that the abrasives that lift stains can be gentler in some products than others, a baking-soda toothpaste, for instance, is often less abrasive while still effective at removing surface stains.

Still wondering?

Choosing a toothpaste can feel like a casual grocery-aisle decision, but the right one is a genuine factor in good oral health. If you’d like a recommendation suited to you, just ask, or get in touch with TMJ Therapy Centre to book a visit.