Confused about which toothpaste to use? Read this quick guide to what’s around and find out how they can improve your dental health.
Every trip to the supermarket leads to a new discovery of more and more varieties of toothpaste, and It’s hard to know which one to choose.
The following is a run down of what’s available and what they all offer. If you’re not sure what’s best for you, ask one of our dentists at the dental clinic Parramatta. They are happy to help.
FLUORIDE-BASED TOOTHPASTES
These are the regular toothpastes you would normally by from the supermarket. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral proven to reduce dental cavities in both children and adults.
Fluoride also protects teeth by helping to remineralise and strengthen enamel. While fluoride does improve dental health, there is some controversy over its possible toxic effects on the body. Ingesting too much fluoride can also cause fluorosis where tooth enamel becomes damaged through demineralisation.
TEETH WHITENERS
Teeth whiteners are seen increasingly in everyday toothpastes.
These toothpastes contain small amounts of hydrogen peroxide and can help to reduce discolouration and staining of teeth but won’t be as effective as professional teeth whitening. Our dentists in Parramatta offer a full range of cosmetic dentistry including teeth whitening.
SENSITIVITY TOOTHPASTES
Anti-sensitivity toothpaste can be very useful in relieving the discomfort of sensitive teeth and decreasing sensitivity over time with regular daily use.
Some sensitivity toothpastes contain sodium calcium phosphosilicate, a compound containing naturally occurring elements found in the body. These help to build a protective layer over teeth and help to remineralise them.
Other toothpastes contain potassium nitrate, which helps block the pain that gives you that uncomfortable nerve sensation.
TARTAR CONTROL
Tartar is the build up of plaque which sticks to the teeth and hardens. Tartar control toothpastes contain sodium pyrophosphate to help reduce build-up, but you should visit your Parramatta dentist on a regular basis to have it removed during your regular professional clean.
BAKING SODA
Baking soda, which is the same as bicarbonate of soda, has been used to clean teeth since the 1700s, and has many benefits for teeth.
The alkalising properties of baking soda reduce acidity in the mouth. This not only helps protect tooth enamel, but also promotes a healthy microbiome in the mouth.
Baking soda is only mildly abrasive and is enough to gently remove dental plaque and stains without damaging tooth enamel. It is also considered a natural whitener.
The other great thing about baking soda toothpastes is they are often very natural products that contain very few ingredients and do not use chemicals such as sodium lauryl sulfate and triclosan.
CHARCOAL
Charcoal is the new kid on the block and is being used more and more in dental products. Charcoal helps to naturally remove stains and whiten teeth. It also acts as an adsorbant, which means that it behaves like a kind of magnet attracting unwanted particles and bacteria in the mouth.
Charcoal toothpastes are also great to use if you suspect you have bad breath.
It’s important to note that toothpastes help protect enamel and prevent cavities, but what is most important is that your brushing technique is effective. Ask at dental Parramatta for advice on how to brush your teeth properly if you are unsure, or if you repeatedly suffer a lot of cavities.
HOW TO MAKE YOUR OWN TOOTHPASTE
INGREDIENTS
2 tbsp coconut oil
½ tbsp. baking soda
½ tbsp. xylotol
15 drops peppermint oil
- Melt the coconut oil slightly on the stove or in the microwave.
- Mix in remaining ingredients.
- Store in a glass jar.
- To use dip a clean spoon into the mixture and add to your toothbrush.
CHARCOAL TOOTHPASTE
You can make your own charcoal toothpaste by adding ½ tsp activated charcoal to the mixture.
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