From whitening to relief from sensitive teeth, toothpastes offer a confusing array of benefits. With so much choice available, it can be difficult to know which toothpaste is right for you. Use this information to cut through the confusion and learn about the ingredients that are in your toothpaste.

Fluoride

Fluoride is a natural mineral that helps to strengthen teeth against decay. According to Australian guidelines, adults should brush with a toothpaste that contains fluoride every day to protect their teeth. Most mainstream toothpastes marketed to adults contain fluoride.

Despite its benefits for teeth, fluoride can be harmful if you swallow large amounts of it. That’s why you should always spit out toothpaste after brushing. Young children often swallow toothpaste instead of spitting it out, so the recommendation is to use only a pea-sized blob of low-fluoride toothpaste to clean the teeth of children aged up to six.

Triclosan

Certain brands of toothpaste contain triclosan, a chemical that kills oral bacteria. Studies show that using a toothpaste that contains triclosan reduces swelling in the gums (gingivitis) and helps to prevent plaque build-up on the teeth. If your dentist notices that you have signs of gum disease, they might suggest you use a toothpaste that contains triclosan.

On the other hand, many people avoid triclosan because animal studies suggest it can cause thyroid problems. Research is still ongoing into the risks, but most dentists agree that the small amounts of triclosan in toothpaste are probably safe.

If you are not sure whether triclosan is necessary or safe for you to use, ask your dentist for advice. Dentists can also give general advice to help you prevent gum disease, such as showing you the correct flossing technique to remove plaque.

Whitening Ingredients

Most whitening toothpastes contain mildly abrasive ingredients, such as calcium carbonate or magnesium carbonate. These ingredients scrub against your teeth as you brush, dislodging the stains and therefore gradually whitening your smile.

Some toothpastes also contain bleaching agents, such as hydrogen peroxide, which is the chemical dentists use to remove stains during professional teeth whitening procedures. Toothpastes that contain hydrogen peroxide are safe for most people to use, but they sometimes cause sensitive teeth.

Instead of hydrogen peroxide, some toothpastes contain carbamide peroxide. This ingredient breaks down into hydrogen peroxide, so it has the same effects as toothpastes that contain that ingredient.

You will probably have to use a whitening toothpaste for several weeks before you can clearly see the effects. If you are looking for a faster way to get a whiter smile, ask your dentist about professional teeth whitening treatments, which can produce an instantly noticeable effect.

Desensitising Ingredients

If you have sensitive teeth, look for a toothpaste that contains potassium nitrate. This ingredient blocks tiny openings in your teeth, protecting the nerve inside the tooth from painful stimuli, such as hot drinks or ice cream.

Sensitive teeth can be a sign that your tooth enamel has been worn down, which means that it is not thick enough to properly protect the inner parts of your teeth. Grinding your teeth can wear away enamel and so can the acids found in some foods and drinks.

As well as using a sensitivity relief toothpaste, it is a good idea to see your dentist to find out what is causing your sensitive teeth and get appropriate treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Toothpaste

What does fluoride do in toothpaste?

Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and protects teeth against decay. It works by making teeth more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria and sugary foods. Most adult toothpastes contain fluoride because it is considered one of the most effective ingredients for preventing cavities.

Is fluoride toothpaste safe to use every day?

Yes, fluoride toothpaste is safe for daily use when used correctly. Adults should brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and spit it out after brushing. Young children should use only a small pea-sized amount of low-fluoride toothpaste to reduce the risk of swallowing too much fluoride.

What ingredients are used in whitening toothpaste?

Most whitening toothpastes contain mild abrasives such as calcium carbonate or magnesium carbonate to help remove surface stains. Some products also contain bleaching ingredients like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide to help whiten teeth over time.

How long does whitening toothpaste take to work?

Whitening toothpaste usually takes several weeks of regular use before noticeable results appear. The speed of whitening depends on the type of stains, the ingredients in the toothpaste, and individual brushing habits.

Can whitening toothpaste cause sensitive teeth?

Yes, some whitening toothpastes can cause temporary tooth sensitivity, especially those containing hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. If sensitivity becomes uncomfortable, it is best to stop using the product and speak with a dentist.

What toothpaste is best for sensitive teeth?

Toothpaste containing potassium nitrate is commonly recommended for sensitive teeth. Potassium nitrate helps block signals from the tooth nerve, reducing pain caused by hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks.

Why are my teeth sensitive?

Sensitive teeth can happen when enamel becomes worn down or gums recede, exposing the inner parts of the teeth. Common causes include teeth grinding, acidic foods and drinks, aggressive brushing, and gum disease.

What is triclosan in toothpaste?

Triclosan is an antibacterial ingredient found in some toothpastes. It helps reduce plaque build-up and gingivitis by controlling harmful oral bacteria. Some dentists may recommend it for people with gum disease concerns.

Is triclosan toothpaste safe?

Current research suggests that the small amounts of triclosan used in toothpaste are generally safe for most people. However, some people choose to avoid it because of concerns raised in animal studies. If you are unsure, speak with your dentist about whether triclosan toothpaste is suitable for you.

How do I choose the right toothpaste?

The best toothpaste depends on your dental needs. Fluoride toothpaste is recommended for cavity protection, whitening toothpaste helps remove stains, and desensitising toothpaste can reduce tooth sensitivity. A dentist can recommend the most suitable option based on your oral health.

Should children use adult toothpaste?

Young children should use a low-fluoride toothpaste designed for children, especially if they are likely to swallow toothpaste while brushing. Adult toothpaste may contain higher fluoride levels than recommended for younger children.

When should I see a dentist about tooth sensitivity?

You should see a dentist if tooth sensitivity becomes frequent, severe, or suddenly worsens. Sensitivity can sometimes indicate enamel erosion, tooth decay, cracked teeth, or gum problems that may require treatment.

How to Find the Right Toothpaste for You

If you are still not sure which toothpaste you should buy and use, contact Dental Smile Clinic today. During a check-up with one of our friendly dentists, you can find out about your particular dental needs and get advice about which toothpaste is right for you.