Which Brand of Toothpaste Is Most Effective?
The most effective toothpaste, as dentists like to say, is the one that's used for brushing at least twice a day. Beyond that, certain types of toothpastes are better than others for addressing specific issues such as tooth decay prevention, tartar control, gingivitis remedy, whitening and sensitivity. Fluoride gets the strongest recommendation.
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Benefits
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Any toothpaste that contains fluoride and has been approved by the American Dental Association is a top product in preventing tooth decay. Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and can even reverse the early stages of damage by remineralizing these areas.
Expert Insight
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Bacteria on teeth creates plaque, which hardens into tartar if not brushed away soon enough. Tartar is irritating to the gums, causing an inflammation called gingivitis which can lead to worse gum disease. Tartar control toothpastes are actually removing plaque and not tartar, thus preventing tartar from forming. These toothpastes contain tetrasodium pyrophosphate or zinc citrate, chemical compounds that have been proven effective.
Consumersearch.com reported in 2008 that many dentists recommend avoiding tartar control toothpaste because it slowly wears down the enamel, which can result in sensitivity. It also can cause canker sores and irritate gums. Since plaque does not start to calcify into tartar for about 24 hours, brushing with a regular toothpaste at least twice a day and flossing at least once a day should prevent tartar buildup. -
Potential
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The only United States Food & Drug Administration-approved over-the-counter remedy for early-stage gingivitis is Colgate Total toothpaste, because it contains the antibacterial agent triclosan. Triclosan remains on teeth after brushing, continuing to kill bacteria. The ADA agrees that Colgate Total prevents and reduces plaque above the gum line, as well as gingivitis, and is effective at preventing tooth decay.
Considerations
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Some toothpastes are advertised as whiteners because they contain more abrasive material, or a bleaching agent. Research is inconclusive at best, with some extra-abrasive types showing minor success at stain removal, but the excessive abrasive can wear down tooth enamel.
Effects
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Many people have sensitive teeth which makes consuming hot or cold food and liquids painful. Effective toothpastes for this condition use potassium nitrate or strontium chloride to block tiny paths through the teeth which attach to nerves, typically under the gum lines. The ingredients can take up to four weeks to provide some relief and do not work for everyone.
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