26 Nov Toothpaste: Making the right choice (part II).

Anti-gingivitis, desensitizing, whitening… oh, my!

(This is part two in a series written to help you navigate the sometimes overwhelming number of toothpaste choices in the grocery aisle.)

Let us help you choose the right toothpaste.

In part one we talked about two essential elements of your toothpaste choice: ADA approval and fluoride inclusion. We also outlined why those two elements are so important. I alluded to the reality that the final factor of your decision is left to personal preference. I would like to clarify that it is personal preference in alignment with your individual dental care plan.

Preventative Oral Care

At Integrity Dentistry we work hard to provide you with a dental care plan that helps alleviate dental issues you are currently facing, as well as equips you to be preventative in your oral care.  This dental care plan is part of what makes Integrity Dentistry so unique. We are not just treating the problems you have, we’re equipping you to avoid problems in the future!

Discussion about your dental care plan.

Preventative care is an important practice at Integrity Dentistry and can assist you in avoiding painful problems and expensive dental procedures. After all, the best way to overcome a problem is to complete avoid it in the first place!

So many choices!

Here are several of the most common toothpaste types and a short explanation of what they offer. After you read through this summary, you should be well-equipped to take on that toothpaste aisle!

• Anti-gingivitis: This specific type of toothpaste helps reduce oral bacteria and can be quite effective in combating gingivitis.

• Desensitizing: De-sensitizing toothpaste works by blocking the tooth’s pain signal to the nerve. Switching to this specialty form of toothpaste could be the key to enjoying some of your favorite foods again (ice cream, anyone?).

• Tartar control: This common type of toothpaste helps prevent the buildup of hardened plaque, or tartar, from forming on your teeth. Keep in mind though; a regularly scheduled, professional dental cleaning is the only way to completely remove existing tartar and the damaging bacteria it harbors.

• Whitening: Whitening toothpaste works to help you maintain the natural color of your teeth by using abrasive polishing or chemical agents to remove stains or make your teeth look whiter. When choosing whitening toothpaste, we recommend choosing one that provides good enamel protection. Some whitening agents may compromise the integrity of your enamel; this will ultimately make it easier for discoloration to reappear. Also, if you already have sensitive teeth, we recommend steering clear of this type of toothpaste as it can increase sensitivity.

Now you are ready to choose.

Reading through the list above, you should be able to make an educated decision on your next tube of toothpaste. Keep in mind both your desired benefits and the overall dental care plan you’ve worked out with Dr. Retrum.

Still unsure?

Remember, our staff is always eager to assist you!

When you schedule your next dental check up with Dr. Retrum, be sure to mention you have questions about dental hygiene products!