Brushing with the right Toothpaste is very important. For one, a toothpaste with the right brushing action remove plaque, which is a sticky film that grows in the teeth and causes cavities, gum disease and even tooth loss. Toothpaste also contains fluoride that makes the whole tooth structure more resistant to decay and repairs early decay before any visible damage is apparent. Special ingredients found in toothpaste help clean and polish the teeth, removing stains and making it look brighter. Finally, toothpastes help freshen the breath and give your mouth a clean feeling.

The Kind of Toothpaste to Use

It does not really matter what brand you use for as long as the toothpaste has fluoride. It also should not matter if it is in paste, gel or powder form, or if it contains flavor. All fluoride toothpastes effectively work in fighting cavities and plaque, and clean the tooth enamel. What is important, though, is that your toothpaste brand should have the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Approval, which says that the product’s safety and efficacy has been demonstrated in controlled clinical trials.

If you have teeth that are very sensitive to cold or hot temperatures, you might want to use a toothpaste that is especially designed for sensitive teeth. These desensitizing toothpastes contain potassium nitrate or strontium chloride that protect exposed dentin by blocking tubes in the teeth that are connected to nerves. These special toothpastes should be used for at least one month before any effects can be felt.

Toothpastes with hydrogen peroxide or baking soda give the teeth and mouth a clean and fresh feeling that can encourage you to brush more often. There are also tartar-controlling toothpastes that contain pyrophosphates to prevent tartar buildup on the teeth. We are also seeing products with advanced whitening formulas that safely remove stains for a brighter and shinier smile almost comparable to professional bleaching formulas administered by dentists.

The Amount of Toothpaste to Use

Contrary to what we see in toothpaste commercials, the amount that you need to effectively brush is not a heaping amount. A pea-sized amount on the top half of the brush should be enough; children under six years should be given a small dab of toothpaste only. Brush correctly by holding the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle, brushing inside, outside and in between the teeth, ensuring that the toothpaste foam covers all the teeth surfaces.

So, is brushing with a toothpaste enough to fight tooth decay and gum disease, and lessen your trips to the dentist? No. However, brushing after every meal will help (as well as flossing your teeth to remove food particles and plaque stuck in between teeth and the gum line). Studies have shown that plaque regrows on the teeth that are very clean in just three or four hours after brushing. Talk to your dentist or more tips on choosing the right toothpaste to keep your teeth protected.

You can read more articles related to teeth whitening and dental care here:

• Is It Possible to Cure Periodontal Disease?
• Dental Care for Children’s Teeth
• Know About Oral Surgery

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