As your Local Redcliffe Dentist knows, there is a vast array of toothpastes available.  But how do you decide which one is right for you and your family’s needs?

Interestingly, toothpaste has been around for over 4000 years.  In the past people used sand, salt and even ground up bone to help remove food particles and plaque from their teeth.

Fortunately for us, toothpaste has evolved in both taste and texture since these early days!

The toothpastes of today contain a number of ingredients – including abrasives such as sodium alginate, chalk or baking soda and a foaming compound such as sodium sulfate.  There are antibacterial components such as fluoride which help protect teeth and gums and calcium phosphate can help remineralise enamel worn away from brushing.

So we have all seen the glitzy television advertisements regarding toothpaste – how do you choose the one for you?

Here are some of the key types of toothpaste available:

Tartar Control – these contain ingredients which prevent a build-up of hard calculus minerals on the teeth.

Whitening – contains abrasives that maintain tooth colour but shouldn’t be used long term.  If you have sensitive teeth, however,  chemical agents may cause irritation or a worsening of your symptoms.

Sensitive –  these toothpastes contain components to coat the porous surfaces of exposed tooth roots.

Natural – made from organic ingredients such as tea tree oil and calcium carbonate. When choosing natural toothpastes, it is important to understand what you are getting.  Natural toothpaste does not contain fluoride, which is proven for its cavity-fighting abilities.

Toothpaste for children – these are for toddlers and contain a lower concentration of fluoride (in case of swallowing).  Too much fluoride at a young age can cause discolouration of teeth.

So, as you can see there are many different types of toothpaste to choose from. If you are still unsure which one you should pick why not ask one of your local Redcliffe Dentists at John Street Dental for advice next time you come in for a visit.  Call 3284 4281 for an appointment or Book Online