If you’re like most people, you’ve probably spent considerable time in your drugstore’s dental care aisle feeling overwhelmed by the huge selection of available toothpaste. From whitening to sensitive to natural toothpaste, it’s hard to know which choice is right for you. As one of the most trusted family dentists in Rush, NY, Diane M Evans DDS believes proper preventive care is the cornerstone of a great smile, and here she provides some tips for choosing the best toothpaste for your oral hygiene regimen.

5 Tips for Selecting the Best Toothpaste

1. Check the Ingredients

When looking for a new toothpaste, start with the ingredient list. Make sure it includes fluoride, which is essential for cavity prevention. Sweeteners help make products palatable, but steer clear of ones with sugar in them. Instead, look for artificial sweeteners such as sorbitol or saccharin.

2. Consider Whether a Special Formulation Makes Sense for You

If you’re a coffee or tea drinker, or just generally unhappy with the shade of your teeth, consider a whitening toothpaste. However, if you have sensitive teeth, it’s important to know that these contain chemicals, which can cause some discomfort. If this is an issue for you, consider toothpaste for sensitive teeth instead.

3. Look for the ADA Seal

The American Dental Association (ADA) has rigorous guidelines for what it considers acceptable ingredients in toothpaste. If your toothpaste has an ADA seal, you can rest assured knowing it meets all requirements. Products without the seal may contain either active or inactive ingredients, which can be harmful to your teeth, so read the label carefully.

4. Understand the Pros & Cons of Natural Toothpaste 

With the increasing popularity of “organic” and “natural” products, you may be tempted to choose a natural toothpaste, but beware. Natural products generally don’t contain fluoride, so you’ll be omitting this essential component of tooth protection. However, these might be the best choice for someone who has allergies to common toothpaste ingredients. If you choose a natural product, drink fluoridated tap water or speak with your family dentist about how to prevent cavities.

5. Talk With Your Family Dentist

Don’t hesitate to ask your dentist to recommend the best toothpaste for you. With their extensive experience and knowledge of your specific dental care needs, they’ll recommend the best products for your unique situation.

Adequate preventive care is essential for maintaining your oral health. In addition to choosing the best products for home, schedule regular checkups with Diane M Evans DDS. This trusted family dentist is dedicated to providing comprehensive dental services in a friendly, comfortable environment. To make an appointment today, call (585) 321-1460, or visit the website for more information.