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In this Article

• Toothpaste basics
• Fluoride toothpaste
• Tartar control toothpaste
• Toothpastes for sensitive teeth
• Whitening toothpaste
• Choosing the best toothpaste for you and your family
• Choosing a Toothpaste Index

Choosing the best toothpaste for you and your family

Here are some tips to help you choose the best toothpaste to meet your family's dental needs:

• Opt for ADA approval. Whatever your toothpaste needs, be sure to select toothpaste that has earned an American Dental Association seal of approval. Toothpastes that have earned this distinction have been evaluated for safety and effectiveness by an independent review board of scientific experts. All toothpastes earning the ADA seal contain fluoride -- the most important ingredient in any toothpaste.
• Be wary of imposters. In 2007, some toothpastes imported from China were found to contain a toxic substance, diethylene glycol. The FDA is currently advising against choosing toothpaste that says it was made in China.
• Consider your needs and the needs of your family members. As long as you select a fluoride-containing toothpaste, the best toothpaste is a matter of personal choice and preference. If you're committed to an all-natural lifestyle, you may want to opt for ADA-approved toothpastes that contain only natural ingredients. For people trying to instill good oral hygiene habits in your children, why not choose fruit-flavored toothpastes with sparkles to entice them to brush their teeth? Some people are eager to restore whiteness to their teeth with whitening toothpastes. Others like the feeling of brushing their teeth with toothpaste containing hydrogen peroxide or baking soda.

With so many different options and combinations available, you can experiment with different brands, varieties, and flavors to find the best toothpaste for you.

WebMD Medical Reference

Sources:

American Dental Association: "ADA Seal of Acceptance Program."

American Dental Association: "Keeping Teeth Bright and Healthy."

University of Maryland Medical Center: "Oral Health: Brushing and Toothpaste."

University of Maryland Medical Center: "Oral Health: Fluoride."

U.S. Food and Drug Administration: "FDA Advises Consumers to Avoid Toothpaste From China Containing Harmful Chemical."

Reviewed by Matthew Hoffman, MD, on July 10, 2008

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