At the very least, buying toothpaste with the American Dental Association (ADA) accredited logo means it has been independently tested, meets any labeling requirements, and contains fluoride, a mineral that keeps enamel firm and prevents tooth decay.
If your teeth are sensitive, the toothpaste marked for this can help relieve pain. These products contain minerals, such as barium chloride and potassium nitrate, that block tiny tubules in the nerves that cause nerves. You usually need to use toothpaste for a few weeks to feel the improvement because minerals need to accumulate over time.
If your dentist says that you have excess tartar (which may cause tooth decay), look for tartar control toothpaste that contains pyrophosphate, which can help reduce accumulation. According to ADA, some new formulas have the antibacterial ingredient triclosan, which is often found in liquid hand sanitizers and can help reduce gingivitis, tartar build-up, and bad breath.
If your teeth look dirty, toothpaste sold as "whitening" can help brighten your smile. These pastes usually contain tiny crystals or mild chemicals that can loosen debris and remove small stains. Those baking sodas work the same way.
