Types of Toothpaste and How to Pick One

These are some symptoms of gum disease.⁵

• Gums that bleed when you brush
• Red, swollen gums
• Gums that have pulled away from teeth
• Persistent bad breath or taste
• Permanent teeth that are loose or separating
• Changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
• Changes in the fit of partial dentures

Desensitizing Toothpaste

Teeth can become sensitive to triggers like temperature and pressure when the protective layers of enamel and cementum are worn down, exposing an inner part of the tooth called dentin.⁶ The dentin contains microscopic tubules that can allow triggers like temperature to affect the nerves within the tooth.⁶ Tooth sensitivity can be caused by tooth decay, fractured teeth, worn fillings, gum disease and more.⁶

Desensitizing toothpaste contains compounds that help block transmission of sensations from the tooth surface to the nerve.⁶ You won’t feel the effects right away, but following the directions on the package can help reduce dentin hypersensitivity.

In addition to desensitizing toothpaste, follow these brushing techniques to prevent sensitive teeth.⁷

• Use desensitizing toothpaste containing stannous fluoride or sodium fluoride with potassium nitrate.
• Brush with small, circular movements.
• Use a soft bristled brush and change it every two to three months.
• Brush your teeth at night before bed and one other time during the day.
• Brush an hour after you eat rather than right after. Some foods can soften your teeth enamel and make it easier to be removed with brushing.

Whitening Toothpaste

Teeth can lose their white luster over time for a variety of reasons. Teeth may stain from food, drinks or tobacco use.⁸ As you age, your enamel may thin and allow the yellowish dentin so show through.⁸ Additionally, if you’ve been hit in the mouth, your tooth may lay down more yellow colored dentin as a reaction to the trauma.⁸ Finally, some treatments like chemotherapy and some medications like antihistamines, antipsychotics and high blood pressure medicines may also cause the tooth to darken.⁸

Whitening toothpastes are formulated to help reduce stains through the use of mild abrasives that scrub the surface of the teeth.⁸ Whitening toothpastes may work on surface stains but probably won’t work for other types of discoloration, especially if your tooth discoloration is caused by medications or tooth injury.⁸ Consult a dental professional to determine if using a whitening toothpaste is good for you.

Occasionally, some people experience tooth sensitivity after using whitening products. If this happens, take a break from the toothpaste and consult your dentist about your whitening toothpaste for expert guidance—overuse of whiteners can damage tooth enamel or gums.

Check for the ADA Seal of Acceptance

As a good rule of thumb, always look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance on the packaging when choosing a toothpaste.²

The American Dental Association seal of acceptance will indicate that the toothpaste has been independently tested for safety and effectiveness.