How to choose the right toothpaste

This can be as difficult as choosing Mrs or Mr Right – the good news is that you do not have to marry only one branded toothpaste! Changing brands does not mean cheating at all. This is an open relationship, and over the next few minutes I will show you the secret to dating the right ones.

• Fluoride is as important as the milk for the tea

When selecting a new brand or type of toothpaste, make sure you choose one that is fortified with fluoride. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that can be found in soil, water, and a variety of different foods. It helps remineralize the tooth and kill the bacteria! It can also help to reduce tooth sensitivity caused by having thin tooth enamel. For adults, I recommend brushing at least twice daily with a toothpaste containing 1,350-1,500ppm fluoride. Fluoride is your best match! It will keep you away from costly treatment plans and frequent  appointments on the dental chair 😊 

Whitening toothpastes?

Whitening toothpastes are not nearly as effective as in-practice whitening treatments. Nevertheless, they could potentially remove some superficial stains if you use the right brand, and if they’re used in the right way. To avoid damaging your teeth or irritating your gums, I invite you to schedule an appointment with your dentist or book an online dental consultation before you start to use a whitening toothpaste.

What About Charcoal Toothpastes?

Though toothpastes containing activated charcoal are becoming increasingly trendy, sort of a boutique mannequin model– great to show off, but what about their performance? They are too abrasive for everyday use, and many brands do not contain fluoride. A review in the British Dental Journal from early 2019 found that charcoal provides little protection against tooth decay. Also, keep an eye on the fact that they may also stain and wear down your enamel instead of whitening them.

Children’s Teeth😁

• Children Under 2 Years Old: Those little dinosaurs should use a rice-grain-size smear amount of fluoride-free toothpaste, as they are not old enough to understand toothpaste shouldn’t be swallowed! This eventually can lead to white or brown patches on their teeth due to excess of fluoride. Who brushes their teeth? Adults, accompanied, of course, by the child’s help.

• Children Aged 2 to 6 Years Old: welcome to the fluoride world! They only require a pea-sized amount containing at least 1,000ppm fluoride. Here we still require adult assistance to ensure that their teeth are cleaned effectively and that they are not swallowing their toothpaste. 

What If My Child Swallows the Toothpaste?  Swallowing a small amount of toothpaste won’t typically cause more harm than an upset stomach. If this occurs, have your child eat a snack or beverage that contains calcium, such as milk, yogurt, or cheese. The calcium binds to the fluoride, settling the stomach.

• Children aged 6-9 years old: Use a pea-sized amount of adult fluoride toothpaste, containing 1,350 fluoride and supervised brushing.  They can safely use an adult toothpaste variety rather than a child variety. 

• Age 9-onwards: I personally recommend to allow your child to brush their own teeth, although some supervision will still be necessary. For the most part, children should be able to do this independently. Make sure they’re brushing for two minutes and using a pea-sized amount of 1350-1500 ppm fluoride toothpaste, on a manual toothbrush. 

• Last tips to keep in your pocket

…As children get older, you will most likely get past the stage in which it’s hard getting them to cooperate with brushing. The goal now is consistency and maintaining regular brushing, especially as your child begins to brush their own teeth.

…The best thing you can do is ensure regular daily brushing at night time and one other time during the day. You can play a part by modelling good oral care behaviour as well. Showing that you engage regular brushing and flossing as part of your daily routine will help establish good oral habits.

Now we are all set up to start a fabulous brushing in the morning and night time!🤗🎉