Kya Aapke Toothpaste Main Namak Hai? What toothpaste to use?

Toothbrush has evolved over the years from the twigs to synthetic and electronic options. Soft to medium bristle toothbrushes are preferred according to specific oral care needs. Toothpaste is a dentifrice used in paste or powder form to clean and whiten the teeth. Brushing twice a day is recommended to maintain good oral hygiene. There are many toothpaste available in the market which are fluoridated sugar free recommended for age group 6yrs and above. A normal paste contains the following contents Abrasive agents, Thickeners, Humectants, Flavouring agents and Detergents.

One recommends brushing with eruption of first primary teeth. Children above 6 yrs are advised toothpaste which contain fluorides. Fluoride strengthen the teeth enamel and prevent tooth decay. Children with high risk for cavities are recommended brushing twice with fluoridated toothpaste.

Various toothpaste available in the market such as:

Whitening: These prove to whiten the teeth with its regular use. They contain abrasive agents and certain chemicals which abrade the fine stains on the enamel. Regular use can damage the enamel structure as the abrasive mechanism is more.

Fluoridated: The recommended fluoride content is 1000 ppm. These toothpaste are used in children who are at high risk for cavities. They can be used at the age of 6 and above. Fluoride play an important role in Caries prevention.

Desensitising: These toothpastes are recommended when the teeth are sensitive to cold and heat. It contains potassium nitrate or strontium chloride. These chemicals block the nerve pathway thus relieving the tooth sensitivity.

Toothpaste for oral prophylaxis: Certain pastes available in the market which prove removal of plaque and tartar. They contain chemicals such as pyrophosphates and zinc citrate. Some toothpaste also contain antibiotics such as triclosan which help reduce or kill bacterial content in mouth. Low bacterial count prevents no plaque and tartar formation and also reduces cavity formation.

Gum-care: These toothpaste reduce plaque and tartar along the gum line thus maintaining tight contacts between teeth and gums. These pasted have potassium nitrate and sodium fluoride. They halo in prevention of gingivitis, bad odour thus maintaining healthy gingiva and good oral prophylaxis.

There are also some disadvantages when used in excess amount:

  • Gum or mouth irritation due to excessive use of fluoridated toothpaste can cause pitted or stained teeth.
  • Patients could be allergic to the various contents of the toothpaste.

Selection or the choice of paste differs from individual to individual. Children should prefer sugar free less fluoridated toothpaste while adults depending upon their gum health, tooth sensitivity and overall oral hygiene should consult their dentist for an appropriate toothpastes use. It is highly recommended to use only a pea size toothpaste along with a standard brush for single use for at least 2 mins. Younger children should be monitored by their parents, guiding them with proper brushing technique or as advised by their dentist. Care should be taken that children do not swallow the toothpaste.

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