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Daily care for your smile protects your teeth and gums from cavities, infections, and even gingivitis and gum disease. Part of that care involves using the right kind of toothpaste. In today’s blog, we’re looking at what our Richardson, TX, patients should take into account when picking a toothpaste!

Tips for Picking the Right Toothpaste

  1. Beware Whitening Toothpastes: We all want a brighter smile, and plenty of products offer solutions to discoloration. However, if the product contains whitening ingredients, that often means abrasive agents designed to scrub away discoloration. These same agents could inadvertently damage your enamel as well, leading to tooth sensitivity and a greater likelihood of tooth decay forming.
  2. Look for Fluoride: Make sure the product you choose contains fluoride. A natural occurring mineral fluoride helps strengthen your outer tooth enamel and protects your teeth against the onset of cavities. In fact, we often offer fluoride treatments for our younger patients to safeguard their smiles against cavities.
  3. Check for That ADA Seal of Acceptance: The packaging should contain the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance, which means the product offers quality oral care. Look for the seal on the box when shopping!

Am I Brushing Correctly?

You should brush your teeth twice each day, once when you wake up and again before going to bed. Each session should last no less than two minutes, providing plenty of time to adequately clean every available surface of your teeth. You should use a small amount to paste, about the size of a pea. You can choose an electric or manual toothbrush, as long as you clean your teeth for at least two minutes. We suggest opting for soft bristles, as brushing too rough with hard or medium ones could damage your smile. If you have any questions about brushing or about picking the right toothpaste, then contact our team today!

Do You Have Questions About Brushing?

We want to ensure you and your family practice good homecare! For more information, schedule a consultation by calling the Viva Dental Family Dentistry office nearest you at (214) 337-7800 (Dallas) or (972) 437-6000 (Richardson).