Finding the right toothpaste starts with recognizing the special needs of your teeth and mouth. The toothpaste that is right for someone else may not be right for you.
So many choices of types and brands of toothpaste in supermarkets. Which one should be chosen? The following are several types of toothpaste based on their respective contents and uses.
Several Types of Toothpaste According to the Content and Benefits
Toothpaste with fluoride
Fluoride is the most important mineral that should be contained in every toothpaste. This mineral is useful for renewing minerals in the area of the tooth that is starting to be damaged by acids. In addition, it can help the enamel or outer layer of the teeth remain strong and protected from damage caused by acids from food processing in the mouth.
Anti-corrosion toothpaste
At first, tartar is plaque or a layer of bacteria on the teeth which then hardens and is difficult to clean. If not cleaned regularly, it can lead to buildup that will lead to gum disease.
Some toothpastes claim to contain ingredients such as pyrophosphate and zinc citrate that can prevent tartar from forming. It also contains the antibiotic triclosan which helps kill bacteria in the mouth.
But on the other hand, actually tartar can only be removed by a dentist and cannot just by brushing your teeth. Even anti-corrosion toothpaste can actually cause teeth to become sensitive to cold. For plaque, all toothpastes can definitely remove plaque if you brush your teeth with the right technique.
Toothpaste for sensitive teeth
Toothpaste which usually contains potassium nitrate or strontium chloride is usually recommended for people whose teeth are easily sore when exposed to food that is too hot or cold. The ingredients in it help block the nerve channels in the teeth. But keep in mind that the best way to treat sensitive teeth is actually to do treatment. Not to reduce pain.
Toothpaste that contains whitening
Toothpastes that claim to whiten teeth generally contain laxative ingredients that work to remove stains from teeth and coat them so they look brighter. Although in general, whitening toothpastes are relatively safe to use on a daily basis, using them too often can risk damaging tooth enamel.
There are also toothpastes that contain baking soda which is claimed to work to remove stains on teeth. But actually this material actually loses its benefits when exposed to water. In addition, this type of toothpaste can actually only remove stains on the surface of the teeth, but cannot change the original color of the teeth.
General Guide
The following are some general guidelines for choosing toothpaste for yourself and your family:
- Make sure the toothpaste brand is registered with the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM) so that it is tested for safety and effectiveness.
- Know the needs of you and your family. For toddlers, avoid toothpaste with a mint flavor.
- It's okay to try a few different brands of toothpaste to find which one feels right for you.
Another effective way is to ask a dentist who knows the health of your teeth for the right toothpaste for you.