Selecting The Best Toothpaste & What to Avoid

We’ve spent some time educating you on the best types of toothbrushes, which happen to electric toothbrushes, but we want to shift our focus over to the best types of toothpastes. This is because when you are purchasing toothpaste, you’ll generally see many different types from many different brands. Most of us don’t even bother reading the labels but choose the one that is the cheapest. However, the cheapest is not always the best.

What to Look For in Selecting the Best Toothpaste

Aspects that you’ll want to see in the toothpaste you decide to purchase are as follows.

ADA Seal of Approval

At the very least the toothpaste you decide to purchase should contain the American Dental Association’s (ADA) Seal of Acceptance. This means the toothpaste has met their criteria for safety and effectiveness. It also means the claims and advertising have been verified.

It Contains Fluoride

Fluoride is the one ingredient you want to see in your toothpaste. This is because fluoride has been shown in several studies to be effective at preventing tooth decay. Keep in mind that all ADA approved toothpastes will contain fluoride. Look on the back label for either fluoride, stannous fluoride, sodium fluoride, or monofluoride phosphate (MFP).

What to Avoid in Selecting the Best Toothpaste

Whitening Toothpastes

Regardless of the claims you’ll see, whitening toothpastes are only good at one thing: removing surface stains from the teeth. They will not change the actual color of your teeth. Professional in-office teeth whitening may accomplish that.

Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)

Some studies have shown that a toothpaste ingredient, lauryl sulfate (SLS), may increase canker sore frequency. We believe it’s best to stay safe than sorry so avoid toothpaste that contain this ingredient.

Tricolosan

This is another questionable ingredient that is added to toothpaste as a way to further reduce dental plaque, gingivitis, and bad breath. However, the FDA is still currently investigating the safety of this ingredient so we advise to avoid toothpastes that contain it.

Other Aspects To Consider

All other ingredients such as toothpastes for sensitive teeth, abrasives, and tartar control options may provide relief as intended, but it is not necessary. The only toothpaste you need should have two things: ADA approved and fluoride.