What Type of Toothpaste Should You Use?

by Kevin Smith Author

The toothpaste aisle in your grocery store has so many options that it can be tough to make a decision on anything else but price. What type should you buy? There are pastes, gels, breath fresheners, tubes in various shapes and sizes, but which one is the healthiest for you? Surely, all those products can't do the same thing and offer you the same level of results, right?

If a Fairbanks dentist has recommended a specific product to you, buy that exact one. That brand and type of toothpaste is the right product for your oral needs, coming from someone who has actually seen the inside of your mouth and knows just what to do to maintain its health.

If you want better oral health and more results for your money, and don't know which brand your dentist recommends, consider this guide to the various types of toothpaste, and which one may be right for you.

Whitening

Whitening toothpaste is slightly abrasive, which allows them to remove surface stains on your tooth enamel, polishes them, and helps prevent future stains from building up. However, they can't reverse the effects of previous stains. Your dentist may offer you an effective whitening treatment in-office.

Cavity Prevention

If you've had several fillings in your life and seem to have new cavities every single time you visit the dentist, it may be wise to invest in cavity prevention toothpaste. These types of products help coat your teeth with fluoride, preventing acidic and sugary foods from forming holes in your enamel.

Sensitivity

Sore or sensitive gums are usually caused by root infections or other signs of poor tooth care. However, if this doesn't apply to you and your gums are still sensitive or prone to bleeding, then you should consider a desensitizing toothpaste. This will prevent those sores associated with eating cold or acidic foods.

Tartar Protection

Tartar is the hardened form of a plaque, or bacterial and food chemical buildup on your tooth. Most tartar protection toothpaste work to prevent the buildup of hard tartar on your teeth. Plaque looks yellowish or brown and can lead to serious oral health problems.

For more information, you should find a Fairbanks dentist and talk to them about your oral health needs. She or he can recommend a product that's right for your specific needs. There's a good chance that you've been using the wrong toothpaste for several years. Using an appropriate product according to your dentist's recommendations can have a significant effect on your oral health.