Toothpastes

Which toothpaste is the best?

The answer to this question really is up to the individual and what you personally need from a toothpaste. What works for you may not work for someone else, as we all have different teeth. There are many well-known brands out there to purchase, but not all brands are created equal. Some toothpastes are more natural, while others have a high chemical content. Some can be overly abrasive, and others can give advantages like minimising sensitivity or building enamel. Talk to your dentist about the best kind of toothpaste for your needs.

Do I need fluoride in my toothpaste?

Fluoride is important in toothpaste because it soaks into the enamel and counters bacterial acids that cause cavities. If you choose not to use a toothpaste with fluoride, you will need to actively make an effort to not consume foods and drinks that may cause cavities (containing sugar), as you will not have cavity protection through your toothpaste.

Are activated charcoal toothpastes more effective?

Charcoal toothpastes are very popular and trendy right now, but there is conflicting information on how good they are for your teeth. Some people find that while they are good at removing stains, they can be overly stripping and strip the teeth of enamel. This is because charcoal is highly abrasive, and can wear away the enamel right down to the dentin. If you are going to use a charcoal toothpaste, use it sparingly and combine it with another toothpaste to give your enamel better protection.

How do whitening toothpastes work?

Whitening toothpastes often contain carbamide peroxide, which works with your saliva to create molecular oxygen, which extracts stain particles from your enamel, giving you whiter teeth as a result. Whitening toothpaste won't harm the teeth, but may cause an increase in tooth sensitivity.