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Does it Really Matter What Toothpaste I Use?

toothpasteA good oral hygiene routine, preventative care, is something that should be a part of everybody’s life. Taking care of your teeth regularly will reduce the likeliness of you ever developing an infection or serious disease, and the chances of you developing cavities. Brushing your teeth with any type of toothpaste is certainly better than not doing it at all. However, the topic of the best type of toothpaste is a conversation that seems to come up again and again.

If you’ve been scratching your head about if the type of toothpaste you use really matters, then you’ll appreciate this collection of information on the topic. Are all toothpastes really created equal? 

Fluoride vs. Non-Fluoride Toothpaste

Fluoride is a beneficial and naturally-occurring mineral that actually protects the teeth from plaque build-up and the development of cavities. It works as a sort of protective barrier that goes just one step further in providing more protection in between brushing. While most adults should use fluoride toothpaste, it is not recommended for children until they are at least two years old. This is because fluoride shouldn’t be swallowed and younger children may take a little longer to learn to spit the toothpaste out.

However, some adults elect to go fluoride-free as well. While this is not a typical option, sometimes it is the right one. This choice is typically made because of their exposure to fluoride in their drinking water. Most municipal water is treated with fluoride, and sometimes people think that they are already getting enough of it via that route.

However, it is important to understand that fluoride is most effective when it is applied directly to the teeth. If you’re concerned about whether or not you and your family are getting enough fluoride, your dentist will be able to provide an assessment. It’s best to consult your dentist before choosing to totally eliminate fluoride from your dental routine.

Dentist Recommendation

If you take a stroll down the toothpaste aisle, you’ll quickly see that there are many, many options to choose from. How do you know which one is right for you? Fortunately, dentists have collaborated to form a unified list of the most recommended toothpastes based on ingredients and any specialized treatments that they offer.

Crest Pro-Health

This particular toothpaste is accepted by the ADA in six categories. It not only whitens teeth, fights cavities, and protects against tooth sensitivity, but it also prevents gingivitis and combats bad breath.

Sensodyne ProNamal Gentle Whitening Toothpaste

This type of toothpaste is ideal for individuals who struggle with tooth sensitivity. It can be difficult or people with sensitive teeth to whiten their teeth, but this toothpaste gives them that chance.

Arm and Hammer Dental Care Advance Cleaning Mint Toothpaste with Baking Soda

This option is created for repair in mind. If your teeth could use more protection against plaque build-up, then this is a fine choice. The mint flavor is subtle and refreshing.

Colgate Total

Colgate Total is a comprehensive formula that fights plaque for up to 12 hours. There are various types of Colgate Total that promote teeth whitening, reduce sensitivity, and even deep clean your teeth and gums.

Tom’s of Main Natural Anticavity Fluoride Toothpaste

Some patients prefer a more natural approach to teeth cleaning. If this sounds like you, then you’ll appreciate this all-natural toothpaste that includes fluoride.

dental floss

Importance of Brushing and Flossing

While the best type of toothpaste may take some time to narrow down, regular brushing and flossing should always be part of your health routine. Not only will this help combat regular issues like cavities and staining, but it could also help you avoid severe dental infections and diseases. Your teeth are such an important part of your health, and it’s certainly worth your time to make your oral health a priority.

 

 Additional tips for quality oral hygiene:

  • Schedule regular dental visits
  • Avoid foods and drinks that cause cavities
  • Change out your toothbrush every three months and between illnesses
  • Take notice of any changes in your teeth or gums
  • Avoid chewing on ice, pen caps, or other hard objects
  • Use a mouthguard when participating in contact sports
  • Use additional products such as a water pick or mouthwash
  • Reach out to your dentist right away if you suspect disease or infection

Doing these simple things can go a long way in promoting your oral health and keeping your smile looking its absolute best.

 

Schedule Your Appointment

If you would like to learn more about which toothpaste is right for you, please reach out to our office. At Lockhart Dentistry, we work with our patients to come up with a plan that is right for them. Our knowledgeable staff is ready to answer your questions and schedule you in for your initial appointment. We look forward to helping you achieve the smile you deserve.

Give us a call today at (317) 849-9715.  

 

We'll give you a reason to smile!


 

Our Office

  • 8202 Clearvista Parkway, Suite 4C, Indianapolis, IN 46256
 

Testimonials

  • Gerald B.
    “Approximately 4:45 p.m., a crown came completely out. I immediately called Dr. Lockhart’s office to see if he was available. He was so 15 minutes later; I walked into his office. I was seen immediately; the tooth was prepped and recemented. Less than a half-hour after the tooth came out, it was back in, and I was on my way to the Pacer game. Great job!”
    Gerald B.
  • Steve E.
    “I’ve had several teeth extracted, and can say unequivocally this was the easiest one to date. The tooth was out before I knew it, no muss, no fuss.”
    Steve E.
  • Jessica C.
    “I am never disappointed with Dr. Lockhart’s service. I have been seeing him for my dental care for a few years now and it seems that my dental health has only improved since I began seeing him. I value how straight forward and honest he is with his patients. I would recommend him to everyone!”
    Jessica C.
  • Linda A.
    “Everyone is professional and so friendly. They take the time to explain the procedures, and make you feel very comfortable in a very relaxed atmosphere. If you don’t like going to a dentist for whatever reason, I suggest you try Dr. Lockhart!”
    Linda A.
  • Karen P.
    “At the doctor’s recommendation, an old silver filling was replaced with enamel. This accomplished two things. It provided an opportunity to assess the health of the tooth-as it is a deep and old filling. And secondly it improved the visual of the mouth by having a filling material which blends with the tooth color. Though no further care is needed at this time, it is valuable to know what may be necessary going forward which eliminates the dreaded element of surprise in dental care. Dr. Lockhart and his staff create a comfortable, caring environment which puts the patient at ease while undergoing what might otherwise be an anxiety filled procedure. All aspects of the office visit were professional, efficient and most important of all – painless.”
    Karen P.
  • Joseph O.
    “Great environment, courteous friendly and professional staff. I look forward to my dental visits because Danelle is welcoming and focused on my dental health and Dr Lockhart is always attentive and clear in his care and explanations.”
    Joseph O.
  • Heather B.
    “Above and beyond! Our son broke off a tooth on A Tuesday evening. Dr. Lockhart and his staff are not scheduled to be in the office on Wednesdays. We nevertheless called the emergency number he provided first thing Wednesday morning. Dr. Lockhart promptly returned our call and we made arrangements to meet at the office. Dr. Lockhart was very thorough with his examination. He and McKenzie took great care of our son and got him fixed up. Always the highest level of care and customer service. THANK YOU!”
    Heather B.
  • Anne M.
    “I highly recommend Lockhart Dentistry to all my friends. After 30 years I finally made the decision to get crowns and braces. In less then 6 months, my treatment is over and I can smile with confidence. Thank you Dr. Lockhart, and your wonderful staff. I truly wonder why I waited so long!”
    Anne M.
  • Kyle C.
    “Always a great and efficient visit. Extremely caring and have seen amazing progress for not being in a long time!”
    Kyle C.
  • Lawrence M.
    “Great dentistry ! Top notch all around.“
    Lawrence M.
  • Gregg J.
    “Experience and Tech Savvy. Dr Lockhart has more experience and is more technologically savvy than any dentist I’ve been to in my 54 years.”
    Gregg J.
  • Cassie R.
    “Happy to have found a dentist in my neighborhood for my entire family!”
    Cassie R.
  • Don G.
    “Nice place to visit but don’t want to live there. I generally do not like surveys or questionnaires and am only answering this one because I like you.”
    Don G.
  • Linda M.
    “When I think of Lockhart Dentistry, the terms “kindness, promptness, professionalism, and effectiveness” come to mind.”
    Linda M.
  • Thomas H.
    “Lockhart Dentistry is a step above all others. Great enthusiastic staff that genuinely enjoy their jobs. Ingrid goes out of her way to make sure each visit is enjoyable and she is very thorough in explaining what she is doing throughout my examination. Every appointment I have had has been on schedule, very little time spent waiting in lobby, which is very important to me from a work and family perspective. I like the fact that they have email and text reminders too!!!”
    Thomas H.
  • Clarence H.
    “Best Long Term Dental Care. My wife and I have been patients of Dr. Lockhart for over 20 years. From routine bi-annual cleanings and checkups to implants, crowns and partial bridges that I’ve had through the years; Dr. Lockhart and his team have always provided the very best of care.”
    Clarence H.
  • Dee B.
    "Highly recommend! I’ve been. With Dr Lockhart 25+ years….since he was at 71st and Shadeland. I had some serious issues that Dr Lockhart and his staff have helped me overcome. I can’t say enough great things about them (I even got my husband to join me there). Thank you so much to Lockhart Dentistry."
    Dee B.
  • Joan M.
    Routine 6 month cleaning and check. Have been a patient of Lockhart Dentistry since Doc came to Indianapolis. The entire staff is friendly and caring and works hard to make sure you are comfortable no matter what service is being provided.
    Joan M.
  • Nicole B.
    "Great place, people are friendly and very nice. Dr. Lockhart always has an alternative or solution to my issues. I love Danielle! I always ask for her to do my cleaning. My teeth always feel extra clean."
    Nicole B.
  • Laurie P.
    Wonderful experience! Very thorough and friendly!
    Laurie P.
  • Deborah W.
    "Dr. Bruce and his staff are amazing, kind, very caring. They take care of you like one of their own!"
    Deborah W.