What is the Best Toothpaste? Our Top Picks

Have you found yourself browsing the toothpaste aisle, overwhelmed by the countless options available? With new toothpaste formulas and trends popping up every day, it can be challenging to determine which one is best for you.

In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of toothpastes available and provide our top picks based on their benefits and effectiveness.

What Makes a Good Toothpaste?

A good toothpaste should cater to your oral hygiene needs without compromising the health of your tooth enamel. 

Here are the key components to look for.

• Active ingredient: This is what your toothpaste “does.” Look for toothpaste with fluoride for preventing tooth decay, hydrogen peroxide for whiter teeth, or hydroxyapatite for rebuilding enamel.
• Texture and ingredients: Whether it’s gel or paste, with natural ingredients or calcium carbonate, the texture of your toothpaste can impact your brushing experience.
• Taste: Fresh breath is a large part of oral health. A pleasant-flavored toothpaste encourages regular use.

Let’s explore the different types of toothpaste and which one may be best for you.

Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste

Hydroxyapatite toothpaste is rising as a star in dental care, especially for people with sensitive teeth. It works by naturally rebuilding and remineralizing tooth enamel, offering a fluoride-free option for those concerned about fluoride use.

Studies have shown that hydroxyapatite can effectively repair early tooth decay and damage, making it an excellent choice for preserving your smile.

Toothpaste With Fluoride

Fluoride is a proven warrior against cavities. It works by not only reducing dental plaque but also reinforcing tooth enamel. 

Over the years, fluoride has gotten a bad reputation, but studies have shown that when used in the proper dosage, it is safe and effective.

Children under the age of 2 should not use a fluoride toothpaste since it is difficult for them to spit it out. Once your child is able to spit and rinse, they can use a pea-size amount of fluoride toothpaste. Ingesting too much fluoride can cause a condition called fluorosis, which may lead to permanent white spots on the teeth.

Whitening Toothpaste

Who doesn’t want a brighter, whiter smile? Whitening toothpaste typically contains several abrasive agents that scrub off surface stains and brighten your teeth. This is how marketers and advertisers can claim “teeth whitening,” by adding abrasive particles to their toothpaste. 

However, over time this causes recession of the gums, and the whitening toothpaste can also erode tooth enamel. If you want true teeth whitening results, consult Dr. Davis and his team for information on teeth whitening the right way.

Whitening toothpastes can only remove surface stains, and minimally at that. So, if you want true results, consider professional teeth whitening treatments like custom trays, and whitening with a proven product like Opalescence.

Sensitivity Toothpaste

Tooth sensitivity is a common issue that can be caused by different factors such as gum recession, enamel erosion, or exposed nerves and roots.

If you experience discomfort when eating or drinking hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages, a sensitivity toothpaste may help.

These types of toothpaste contain ingredients like potassium nitrate or strontium chloride that work to desensitize the nerves in your teeth, providing relief from sensitivity.

If you have sensitive teeth, make sure you tell your dentist, as this could be a sign of a more significant oral health issue.  Be sure to avoid all toothpastes that claim “whitening,” as this will only make your sensitivity worse.

Charcoal Toothpaste

Charcoal toothpaste has gained significant attention in recent years for its natural cleansing properties and ability to whiten teeth. However, while charcoal can remove surface stains, it is abrasive and wears away your enamel over time. It also causes recession of the gums over time, exposing roots that cause sensitivity.

We do not recommend using charcoal toothpaste. Instead, opt for hydroxyapatite toothpaste or non-abrasive toothpaste like a gel. Gel toothpastes are the least abrasive pastes out there. If your goal is to whiten your teeth, the best option is professional teeth whitening. Discuss with Dr. Davis and his team.

Purple Toothpaste

Purple toothpaste is a new trend promising to “color correct” and “brighten teeth” by neutralizing yellow tones. However, these claims are largely unproven and not recommended by dental professionals.

Your teeth will look white immediately after use, but as soon as you close your mouth and saliva touches your teeth, the “whitening effects” disappear.

If you really want brighter, whiter teeth, practice good oral hygiene and talk to your dentist about professional teeth whitening.

Power Road Dental Care – Your Partners in Oral Health

The best toothpaste for you is one that addresses your specific oral health needs. Whether it’s fighting cavities, reducing sensitivity, or keeping your smile in tip-top shape, there are many options to choose from.

Don’t let TikTok trends and marketing gimmicks sway your decision. Stick to toothpaste with proven active ingredients and consult with your dentist for personalized recommendations.

Remember, maintaining good oral hygiene habits, like brushing twice a day, flossing once a day, and regular dental check-ups, are just as important as selecting the right toothpaste.

If you are in the East Valley and are searching for ‘teeth whitening near me’ or ‘dentist in Mesa, AZ’, we can help. To book an appointment with Dr. Tyler N. Davis, call (480) 664-1438 or complete the online booking form.