With so many dental care products (competing toothpastes,
toothbrushes, mouthwashes etc.) on the market today, how should you
decide which product to use? This document provides information to
help guide your decision-making among the various types of
available products.
Toothpastes
When purchasing a toothpaste for you or your child, select one
that contains fluoride. Toothpastes containing fluoride have been
shown to prevent cavities. One word of caution: check the
manufacturer's label. Some toothpastes are not recommended
for children under age 6. This is because young children swallow
toothpaste, and swallowing too much fluoride can lead to tooth
discoloration in permanent teeth.
It is also wise to select a product approved by the American
Dental Association (ADA). The ADA's Seal of Acceptance means
that the product has met ADA criteria for safety and effectiveness,
and that packaging and advertising claims are scientifically
supported. Some manufacturers choose not to seek the ADA's
Seal of Acceptance. Although these products might be safe and
effective, these products' performance have not been
evaluated or endorsed by the ADA.
Types of toothpaste (beyond containing fluoride) -
whitening toothpastes, tartar-control, gum care, desensitizing,
etc.
With the number and types of available toothpastes on the
market, the best strategy to selecting among these products might
be to simply ask your dental hygienist or dentist what the greatest
concerns are for your mouth. Also, be aware that your needs will
likely change as you get older. After consulting with your dentist
or hygienist about your oral health's greatest needs, look
for products within that category (for example, within the tartar
control brands or within the desensitizing toothpaste brands) that
have received the ADA Seal of Acceptance. Finally, some degree of
personal preference comes into play. Choose the toothpaste that
tastes and feels best. Gel or paste, wintergreen or spearmint all
work alike. If you find that certain ingredients are irritating to
your teeth, cheeks, or lips, or if your teeth have become more
sensitive, or if your mouth is irritated after brushing, try
changing toothpastes. If the problem continues, see your
dentist.
Manual toothbrushes
The main criterion to look for in manual toothbrushes is soft
bristles. Both adults and children should use a toothbrush that has
soft bristles. Harder bristles might cause gum tissue to pull back
from teeth, which can expose the tooth root and lead to increased
sensitivity to hot, cold, and sweet foods and beverages. Even
worse, receding gum tissue can ultimately lead to tooth loss if not
prevented or treated.