5 Top Toothpaste Myths

Dr. Jay Jorgensen D.D.S.

1. Everyone should use only fluoridated toothpastes
Studies and research indicate a strong correlation between the use of fluoride and the reduction of dental caries. In fact, as a result of those findings, many schools began adopting fluoride programs and community water fluoridation was instituted.

Today, 67 percent of the U.S. public water systems use fluoride to help prevent decay. The decision to use toothpaste with or without fluoride should be determined mutually by you and your dental professional, taking into consideration your community water fluoride content and your risk for dental caries.

2. Toothpastes are essentially all the same
Toothpastes are NOT all created equal. Toothpastes carry various levels of abrasivity which, if too abrasive, can lead to sensitivity and premature wear on teeth. Many toothpastes contain colors and dyes that can stain; alcohol that is harsh and dries the mouth; saccharin and artificial flavorings.

Many high-quality toothpastes contain no artificial flavorings or dyes; they are alcohol-free and saccharin-free. They may contain safe and unique ingredients such as Xylitol and sucralose, herbs, essential oils and may offer fluoride and fluoride-free options. Read labels to ensure you and your family are using a toothpaste that is safe and effective and meets your individual needs.

3. Whitening toothpastes will whiten my teeth
Contrary to what advertisers lead us to believe, it is simply not possible for commercial whitening toothpastes to actually whiten teeth. Whitening toothpastes are not formulated with the same active ingredients or concentrations found in professional whitening systems.

These toothpastes are only able to remove some surface staining caused by foods and beverages through the action of abrasive agents. The high rate of abrasion found in most of these whitening toothpastes can lead to increased sensitivity and premature wear on teeth and cosmetic surfaces.

4.The more toothpaste I use, the cleaner my teeth
More is NOT better; it’s usually a waste. Toothpaste is designed to assist in cleaning and removing plaque, stains and food debris. Most of the cleaning action actually comes from the mechanical efforts your toothbrush provides, along with proper technique, and not how much toothpaste you’re using.

When overloading your toothbrush with toothpaste, most of it usually finds its way down the drain. Additionally, children using fluoridated toothpastes should always be supervised to apply a controlled amount of toothpaste and to avoid swallowing.

5. Using toothpaste will keep my breath fresh
Many commercial-brand toothpastes contain strong artificial flavorings that can very often illicit a mild to intense burning sensation, giving it a “fresh” feeling and providing a temporary cover-up for odorous bacteria. Simply because it feels strong in the mouth does not necessarily mean it is killing the bacteria responsible for bad breath.

There are toothpastes that contain ingredients that actually neutralize a specific group of bacteria referred to as Volatile Sulfur Compounds (VSCs). This group of bacteria is responsible for oral malodor. And, when these VSCs are neutralized, the bacteria becomes ineffective and longer lasting fresh breath is achieved — safely, effectively and without the burn!

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