How Often Should You Change Your Toothpaste?
No, you do not have to change toothpaste frequently. As long as you use a Fluoride-based toothpaste recommended by the American Dental Association (ADA), you can use almost any toothpaste indefinitely. Whether you use a gel, paste, mouthwash-infused, or some other hybrid type, there are only a few reasons you might need to change toothpaste frequently.
How Frequently Should You Change Toothpaste?
Changing toothpaste frequently may have the opposite effect than you may think. The key takeaway is that if you like your toothpaste and it is ADA-approved, you don’t even need to change toothpaste unless the manufacturer stops making that particular type.
There is a multitude of choices on the shelves. Some have “whitening crystals.” Some advertise fresh, minty breath or unique ingredients for sensitive teeth. If you have a question about selecting the perfect toothpaste, discuss the matter with your dentist or orthodontist.
Does Toothpaste Expire?
The answer is that toothpaste may expire, but it does have a long shelf-life. Every tube has an expiration date stamped on the crimp at the end of the tube. Most dental professionals will tell you that you should replace that tube about two years after the date stamped on the tube.
The same general rule applies to toothpaste in pump containers and other delivery devices. After about two years, the components may begin to break down. In a family sharing the same toothpaste, the expiration date is not much concern. If you’re the only one in the house using your toothpaste, a single tube may last beyond two years.
Are There Differences in Toothpaste Brands?
Yes, each manufacturer has a special formula. These include different active ingredients, flavor selections, and inactive ingredients.
Things to look for when selecting a new toothpaste:
- ADA recommendation
- Contains Flouride
- A flavor choice you like
Whether you select toothpaste from Crest, Colgate, Oral-B, or any other available brand, the three items above are the most critical factors in making your selection.
There are several organic, natural products from companies such as Tom’s or Burt’s Bees. A common problem with all-natural products is they often contain no Fluoride. Due to that, they are also not ADA-recommended. If you opt to use one of these, it is recommended that you also use an ADA-recommended brand with Fluoride at least once daily, usually before bedtime.
Are There Differences in Toothpaste Types?
Yes, there are several different types of toothpaste. The standard pastes are usually white, minty, and available in almost every brand. Gels are a different type. These can be green, blue, red, or any other color under the sun.
The similarities in the types of toothpaste are easier to note. For instance, most will include a mild abrasive. This component helps to whiten teeth by removing surface staining. Heavy abrasives can cause tooth sensitivity and wear down the surface enamel over time. Most dentists will recommend a non-abrasive or mildly abrasive toothpaste.
Some toothpaste includes additional whitening agents that remove surface stains and provide a polished look to teeth. Ask your dentist for a recommendation if you want to brighten your smile a bit.
One of the main selling points of toothpaste is the flavor. These are often sweet, although they do not contain sugar and do not promote decay. Some are minty, bubble gum-flavored, and even strawberry-berry-super-duper-flavor blast. Although cinnamon was popular back in the day, it is more difficult to find lately.
Toothpaste also includes a cleaning agent or detergent. This ingredient allows it to foam, penetrating along the gum line and between teeth.
Many kinds of toothpaste contain Fluoride, but not all of them do. Check the label for added Fluoride and the ADA Seal of Acceptance. Fluoride helps fight cavities and is an integral part of a good oral care routine.
Other active ingredients in toothpaste fight plaque, gingivitis, and decrease the possibility of gum disease. Your dentist may recommend a toothpaste designed to reduce tooth sensitivity if you have sensitive teeth. Although these ingredients won’t solve all your dental problems overnight, regular use will help.
Selecting the Best Toothpaste
The best toothpaste for you is the one that you like well enough to use at least twice daily. Each session should be about two minutes long, using about 30 seconds on each of the four quadrants of your mouth.
You should be brushing at least two times a day thoroughly. That means two minutes of steady brushing and hitting all the surface areas of your teeth, including the tops and back. You should also be flossing at least once daily.
Does Charcoal Toothpaste Work Better?
No, charcoal toothpaste does not work better. Most charcoal-based toothpaste does not contain Fluoride. They are also very abrasive, which can damage the surface of teeth with regular use. If you have composite resin fillings or dental work such as crowns or veneers, the abrasiveness may scratch the surface area and allow staining to occur.
There are no scientific studies that confirm the claims of tooth whitening made by manufacturers of charcoal-based toothpaste and mouthwash. If you are tempted to try this latest trend, please check with your dentist or orthodontist before purchasing these products.
Best Toothpaste and Mouthwash for Braces
Look for products specially made for people with braces when selecting the best toothpaste and mouthwash. Choose a toothpaste that contains fluoride to strengthen enamel and fight cavities. Opt for a toothpaste with a mild abrasive action to effectively clean around brackets and wires. For mouthwash, select an alcohol-free option with anti-bacterial properties to help reduce plaque and maintain fresh breath. Look for a mouthwash that targets gum inflammation and promotes gum health. Remember, using the right toothpaste and mouthwash can enhance your oral hygiene routine and support optimal dental health during your braces journey.
Brushing Technique is More Important Than Toothpaste
The best toothpaste is the one you use. That sentiment bears repeating. You can purchase the best toothpaste on the shelf, but it won’t do you any good if you aren’t using it. It doesn’t matter if you’re 30 years old — if you want bubble gum flavored toothpaste, buy it and use it. Just make sure it has the ADA Seal of Acceptance and contains Fluoride.
Your technique is more important than the toothpaste you use when you brush. The proper technique is:
- Line up your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle in relation to your gums.
- Move the brush back and forth gently, being sure to concentrate on each tooth.
- Brush all the exposed surfaces of each tooth, overlapping onto the gumline.
- To clean the lingual (back) side of your front teeth, turn the brush vertically and use an up-and-down stroke.
Thorough brushing and flossing will keep your mouth fresh and clean.
Contact Hanson Place Orthodontics for More Info
For more information about how often you should change toothpaste or general oral care, please don’t hesitate to contact the orthodontic specialists at Hanson Place Orthodontics. For general questions, you can email us at info@hansonplaceortho.com to receive a timely response. You may also text or call us at (718) 622-2695.
