First, when you buy toothpaste for you or your child, choose fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride toothpaste has been shown to prevent tooth decay. However, the prudent one is: Use only a very small amount for children under the age of 6 (the size of their nails). This is because the toddler swallows toothpaste and swallowing too much fluoride can cause discoloration of the permanent tooth teeth.
Choosing a product approved by the American Dental Association is also a wise choice. The ADA's acceptance certificate indicates that the product meets ADA's safety and efficacy standards, and that the packaging and advertising statements are scientifically supported. Some manufacturers choose not to seek proof of ADA acceptance. Although these products may be safe and effective, the performance of these products has not yet been evaluated or approved by ADA.
Next, when considering other properties of toothpaste (such as whitening toothpaste, tartar control, gum care, desensitization, etc.), the best advice for choosing among these products may simply be asking your dental hygienist or dentist what the problem is most concerned with. At this time for your mouth. After consulting your dentist or hygienist about the most important needs of your oral health, look for products that have received ADA certified seals (for example, in tartar control brands or desensitizing toothpaste brands).
Finally, a certain degree of personal preference comes into play. Choose the best toothpaste for your taste and feel. Gel or paste, wintergreen or spearmint can be used. If you find that certain ingredients may irritate your teeth, cheeks, or lips, or if your teeth become more sensitive or your mouth becomes inflamed after brushing your teeth, try changing toothpaste. If the problem persists, go to the dentist.
