Cheap Vs. Expensive Toothpaste
November 28, 2023 9:00 am When you walk down the toothpaste aisle at your local supermarket, does it sometimes feel like you’re overwhelmed by options? There are numerous toothpaste brands claiming to whiten, brighten, strengthen, and protect your teeth. Some come with a heftier price tag than others. So, it’s natural to wonder: is expensive toothpaste really better than the cheaper alternatives?
Check the Ingredients
The best way to determine if a toothpaste is effective is to review the active ingredients. The main thing you want to be sure is in your toothpaste is fluoride, which helps prevent tooth decay and maintain good oral health. Find a toothpaste with fluoride that is American Dental Association approved. After this, any extra benefits are often personal preference.
One ingredient that has become popular on the market these days is active charcoal. Although very trendy, charcoal toothpaste can actually be too abrasive for your smile, wearing away your teeth’s outermost layer of enamel. Be cautious if using charcoal toothpaste so you don’t accidentally cause tooth sensitivity or future cavities.
Consider Your Specific Toothpaste Needs
Many people choose a whitening toothpaste, hoping to see dramatic results and a brighter smile. Whitening toothpaste, such as Arm & Hammer, can help remove surface stains from coffee or wine. However, if you want longer lasting whiter teeth, a professional teeth whitening treatment will be more effective.
If you have sensitive teeth, you might pick a toothpaste specifically designed to alleviate associated symptoms, such as Sensodyne or Colgate Sensitive. Sensitivity toothpaste typically contains ingredients that help desensitize nerve endings in the teeth and reduce discomfort. It often costs a couple dollars more than a basic toothpaste, but can be very helpful.
Other toothpastes may address enamel erosion (Pronamel), which could be a plus if you drink acidic beverages. Others help with gum swelling (Paradontax), which may be beneficial after periodontal therapy. Less commonly, if you are very prone to cavities, our dentist may prescribe you a prescription toothpaste, such as Prevident 5000. If you find a toothpaste that works especially well for your needs, you might find it worthwhile to spend a few extra dollars on your preferred brand.
Comprehensive Dental Care in Bellevue, WA
In short, you may have wondered if expensive toothpaste is really better. Beyond ensuring your toothpaste has fluoride, there are few reasons to shell out the big bucks for a special kind of toothpaste. The savvier investment for your oral health would be to purchase a high-quality electric toothbrush to keep your smile shining bright. What’s most important is to maintain a proper oral care routine including brushing and flossing twice a day and scheduling regular cleanings and exams at Bellevue Dental Oasis! If you have additional questions about which toothpaste to use, just give us a ring.
Image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0
Categorised in: Dental Tips