Which toothpaste should you choose? What really matters
In short: you stand in front of twenty toothpastes and the truth is the only essential is fluoride. Almost any adult toothpaste has it. The rest (whitening, for gums, for sensitivity) is chosen according to what you need. And a secret: technique cleans more than the brand of toothpaste.
The one thing it can’t lack: fluoride
Fluoride is the ingredient that really protects against cavities: it strengthens the enamel and slows wear. Almost all adult toothpastes contain it in a good amount, so that covers the essentials. If a toothpaste doesn’t have fluoride, better leave it.
The “special” ones: according to your case
- For sensitivity: if cold/heat bothers you, they help soothe (although it’s worth knowing why you have sensitivity).
- For gums: useful if you’re prone to gingivitis, as support for good hygiene.
- Whitening: they keep teeth white by removing surface stains, but they don’t truly whiten; some are abrasive, best not to overuse.
You don’t need them all at once: choose according to what affects you.
The amount: less than you think
In the ads they put loads of paste covering the whole brush. In real life, a pea-sized amount is enough for adults. For young children, much less (a smear), with a toothpaste whose fluoride suits their age, supervised so they don’t swallow it (fluoride in children).
What cleans most isn’t the toothpaste
It’s the technique. A good toothpaste with poor brushing cleans little; brushing done well with a normal toothpaste cleans a lot. Spend the two minutes and do it well (how to brush); the toothpaste is the supporting act, not the star.
Not sure which toothpaste or brush suits your mouth? We’ll tell you clearly at the clinic, without selling you anything. The first visit is free: book an appointment.
Frequently asked questions
What's the most important thing when choosing a toothpaste?
That it contains fluoride. It's the ingredient that really protects against cavities, and almost all adult toothpastes have it in the right amount. The rest (flavour, whitening, gums…) is secondary and chosen according to your needs.
Do whitening toothpastes work?
They help keep teeth white by removing surface stains, but they don't truly whiten the tooth like a professional treatment. Some are a bit abrasive, so it's best not to overuse them and to alternate with a normal fluoride one.
How much toothpaste should you use?
Less than the ads suggest. For adults, a pea-sized amount. For young children, much less (a smear or a grain of rice), with a toothpaste whose fluoride is suited to their age and always supervised so they don't swallow it.
Can we help with your case?
Free first consultation and diagnosis in Bilbao, no commitment.
