The majority of people find themselves completely in the dark when it comes to their knowledge concerning the toothpaste that they use on a daily basis. However, your dental health is among the most important elements of hygiene that must be maintained. Expand your power to take control of your oral health by exploring the following guide to the toothpaste that you use to achieve the deepest possible clean.
Most people are unaware of the role that each ingredient plays in different types of toothpaste. Instead, we tend to focus on brand names and prices. By understanding what each common ingredient does to contribute to oral health, you can make toothpaste choices that are better suited for your oral needs.
Mild abrasives are used in the majority of toothpaste in order to remove stains and debris. In most cases, silica gels and calcium carbonates are the abrasives being put to use. Many brands also use baking soda for the same purposes. Although, studies have not revealed that baking soda toothpaste is substantially more effective than any other form of a paste. People primarily gravitate towards these products because they prefer the taste over mintier varieties.
Fluoride is present in the vast majority of products at varying levels. Fluoride protects the enamel of the teeth and achieves re-mineralization for areas that have been subject to decay. The average toothpaste also includes flavoring agents, binders, and detergents. Detergents are the materials responsible for the foaming action and lathering that allows the product to better reach between teeth. In small amounts that are appropriate for brushing, none of these products are actually harmful.
Whitening toothpaste utilizes considerable levels of hydrogen peroxide in order to remove stains. Because these products have the power to change the shade of a tooth, they are generally stronger and more stringent than traditional toothpaste formulas. People who have exposed roots and are dealing with oral damage and decay should avoid using these types of products. On the other hand, toothpaste that is designed to be used by children is much less intense and mild. These mixtures use lower levels of fluoride and less-abrasive materials.
A considerable number of people suffer from tooth sensitivity, limiting the type and strength of toothpaste that they can use. Sensitivity can be caused by a number of issues related to both the teeth and the gums. However, people with an oral condition that is stemming from the teeth can find some relief with specially-designed toothpaste formulas. The varied brands dedicated to treating this condition use different mechanisms to provide relief. The most effective brands on the market today include Colgate Pro-Relief, Crest Sensi Repair, and Sensodyne.
In general, all toothpaste is rated on a scale based on its abrasiveness. Known as the “dentin abrasive index,” whitening toothpaste rate the highest.
Hopefully, this article helped to shed some light on what is contained in those mysterious tubes we use every day. Now use your newfound knowledge and make toothpaste choices that are best suited for your needs.