As a rule, everyone chooses toothpaste based on their preferences and knowledge.
The exception is those who have received specific recommendations from a dentist.
If there are no serious chronic problems, then the main principle of choosing toothpaste is not to harm yourself in order to maintain healthy teeth for many years.
Usually pastes are divided into hygienic (universal), therapeutic and preventive, therapeutic. However, the composition of each type of paste is very diverse, no one can guarantee that any paste is safe for every person.
What a toothpaste should be able to do
At a minimum, we expect any paste to be:
- remove plaque;
- protect against caries;
- prevent the formation of tartar;
- have a pleasant taste;
- foam.
The packaging honestly indicates the composition, but, as a rule, in Latin and, naturally, no manufacturer will give away its secrets and one can only guess about the quantity of individual components.
What to look for when choosing a paste
To perform their functions, prophylactic pastes must contain abrasive substances (for effective cleaning of the surface of the teeth). A popular abrasive agent is calcium carbonate (chalk), but pastes containing silicon dioxide have a softer cleaning effect.
Medicinal pastes contain antiseptics to remove harmful microflora, most often sodium benzoate, chlorhexidine, triclosan.
Sodium benzoate has the most gentle effect, triclosan is the most aggressive. Experts do not recommend using pastes with this substance constantly (no more than two weeks).
Sodium laureth sulfate or sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS and SLES) are often used as foaming agents. These are aggressive surfactants that can destroy the natural protection of the oral cavity. Although the mucous membrane can be restored, it is better to use pastes with sodium coco sulfate, which is used in natural cosmetics.
Any paste contains flavor additives, flavorings, preservatives (to extend shelf life). The main danger of these substances is the ability to cause allergies, individual intolerance to any substances.
Important points
It is important to remember that even with the right toothpaste, only regular and thorough brushing of teeth can give good results.
The brushing technique is also important: the movements should be vertical (sweeping), without excessive force. Massage the gums only in the absence of inflammation (bleeding gums) with a soft brush.
For reference
Toothpaste is an oral hygiene product in the form of paste, gel or powder, which is used to clean teeth from plaque in order to prevent caries.
