When it comes to oral health, one of the easiest ways to make sure your smile is getting everything it needs is to choose the best toothpaste for your teeth. Despite advertisements and marketing ploys, not all toothpastes are created equal, and it’s important to choose one that will keep your smile bright without harming your mouth.

Look for the American Dental Association Seal

You should ideally be brushing and flossing twice a day, so while you need a toothpaste that checks all the “oral health” boxes, it should also be one you generally like. There are tons of different options when it comes to toothpastes, which can make shopping for one a little overwhelming. A good starting place is to look for the seal of the American Dental Association (ADA). The FDA does not require toothpaste manufacturers to meet any certain standards, but the ADA conducts extensive testing to ensure any toothpaste with the seal meet ADA standards and are true to their claims.

Choosing Toothpaste Based on Your Needs

Maybe your teeth are a little yellow, or maybe they’re a little sensitive. Maybe they are just fine the way they are and you’re just looking to keep your mouth in tip-top shape — there’s a toothpaste for all these needs. For sensitive teeth, look for a formula designed to relieve sensitivity. If you drink lots of coffee or tea and struggle with discoloration, look for a toothpaste designed to whiten. You should always be looking for a toothpaste that contains fluoride, though, no matter your needs. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that helps to slow tooth decay and prevent cavities.

Toothpaste Ingredients to Avoid

Remember being a kid and almost wanting to swallow your toothpaste because it was so sickly sweet? Well, that should be the last thing on your mind if you’re an adult — your toothpaste should not be too sweet, as this indicates lots of added sugar and flavors.

Cornerstone Family Dentistry in Nashville, TN

If you’re struggling to decide on a toothpaste that’s right for you and your family, give us a call at Cornerstone Family Dentistry. Our bilingual staff can offer help and insight into any of your oral health questions, and we are always taking on new patients. If you or your family is in need of a teeth cleaning or comprehensive exam, fill out our new patient paperwork today.