Let’s pick the right toothpaste!

Choosing the right toothpaste is essential for  your dental care routine. However, with the availability of so many brands of toothpastes around us, it is becoming difficult to judge which one is right for you. Let’s see what the experts say we should look for.

Here’s What to look for….

IDA Seal of Acceptance

Look for the Indian Dental Association’s seal of Acceptance logo. It indicates that a toothpaste has met the IDA’s criteria for safety and effectiveness. It also means that the products on-package labeling and claims have been verified.

Fluorine content

It’s important for a toothpaste to contain Fluoride because it’s a very effective in preventing cavity. Look for the compounds like Stannous Fluoride, Sodium Fluoride or Monofluoride Phosphate(MFP). All IDA-accepted toothpastes contain Fluoride.

Tartar Control

Tartar-control ingredients (like Pyrophosphate) can help to minimize the build-up of dental calculus (hardened plaque) but won’t help to remove tartar that’s already formed.
Sometimes using tartar-control toothpaste causes increased tooth sensitivity.

Extra Whitening

A toothpaste may make whitening claims but don’t expect much in the way of results.
Toothpastes whiten teeth by way of removing surface stains. They do not change colour of teeth.

Abrasives

All toothpaste formulations include abrasives. They help to remove debris and surface stains from teeth. Some of the abrasives used are, Silica, Calcium Carbonate and Aluminium Oxide. Too much abrasives are a bad thing. IDA-accepted toothpastes lie within reasonable limits.

Anti-microbial action

Triclosan is an antimicrobial that is sometimes added to toothpaste. It can help to reduce dental plaque, gingivitis and bad breath. There are, however, some safety concerns about the use of this compound. The FSA is investigating.

For Sensitive teeth

When used over time, toothpastes formulated “for sensitive teeth” can help to combat tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, air and touch. Look for formulations that contain strontium chloride or potassium nitrate.

SLS-Free

There’s some evidence that the foaming agent Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) may increase canker sore frequency. If you suspect that this is true for you, consider using a SLS-free toothpaste.

Understanding the facts before choosing will reflect on your dental health. Read the label carefully before you make a purchase!

About the Author  
Dr. Runuk Bhandari 
SRV Dental Clinic