When it comes to choosing toothpaste, the job can be really confusing- especially when you have a variety of toothpaste available in the market. So, when buying toothpaste, it is better to first consider your oral needs and then invest in the right product.
Fluoride-based toothpaste
Yes, fluoride is an essential element in any toothpaste. It doesn’t matter whether you use your toothpaste in gel, powder or paste form, what matter more is the fluoride content in the toothpaste and the ability of the toothpaste to clean your teeth and protect them from cavities. Fluoride plays an important role in strengthening the enamel and fighting decay and toothpastes with the right amount of fluoride can be highly effective in removing stains, polishing the teeth and giving you a refreshing feeling.
Are your teeth sensitive?
If you have a problem of tooth sensitivity, you should consider using a desensitizing paste that contains potassium nitrate or strontium chloride. These types of toothpastes take around four to six weeks to yield results, so have patience and consult your dentist in case of any problems with the use of the toothpaste.
Shouldn’t it offer tartar control?
If a toothpaste advertises “tartar control”, it means it contains pyrophosphate. Even though this agent hasn’t been proved to remove tartar, it has been found to be linked with reducing the formation of tartar.
Proper dental care helps to maintain a person’s dental health and prevents periodontal or gum disease from developing. Proper dental care involves cleaning teeth correctly and regularly. If teeth are not cleaned every day, there is a great risk of tooth decay. Early signs of decay include visible holes in your teeth, pain when biting and feelings of sensitivity or pain in the teeth. When carbohydrates in food and drinks a person consume are not cleaned from the teeth regularly, they provide fuel for cavity causing bacteria. These bacteria can start forming plaque on teeth 20 minutes of eating. So, if you take snacks frequently, you may want to clean your teeth more often than twice a day. Cleaning teeth helps prevent cavity causing bacteria from progressing to gingivitis or gum disease.
When you brush your teeth, take enough time to do a thorough job. This can be achieved by the use of proper equipment. Fluoride toothpaste and a soft bristled toothbrush that fit in ones mouth comfortably should be used. Remember to brush the inside and chewing surfaces of the teeth as well as the tongue. Vigorous brushing should always be avoided as it can irritate the gums.
Keep the equipment clean by rinsing the toothbrush with water after brushing. The brush should be stored in an upright position. Brushes should not be covered or put in closed containers as this encourages the growth of bacteria.
It is also important to replace the toothbrush after a given period of time. Invest in a new toothbrush or a replacement head for your electric or battery operated toothbrush every three to four months.