What kind of toothpaste should I use?
Let's "Chew the dental facts with Dr. Louis A. Hassell, Cuspids, Inc."
With so many toothpaste products on the market, which one should I use? Here are some helpful tips:
- I tell my patients to use any toothpaste as long as it has fluoride.
- Use enough toothpaste to cover the head of your brush.
- If you are sensitive or allergic to some of the ingredients in conventional toothpastes, I recommend Biotene. Biotene has fewer ingredients and is less irritating. It is, however, more expensive and can cost between $4 - $7 per tube.
- If you are looking to make your teeth look a bit whiter use the products with "Whitening" on the label. These products can range in price from $2.99 - $13.99 for products such a "Brite Smile". Keep in mind that these toothpaste remove stains from your teeth and should not be confused with "whitening" or "bleaching" which is done in the dental office.
- If you like organic products, Toms is a popular product and can be purchased over the Internet or in specialty stores such as Whole Foods or EarthFare. And, I've even seen Toms in Wal-Mart.
- Out of toothpaste? Use baking soda. Simply wet your toothbrush, place a little baking soda in your hand and dip you toothbrush in the baking soda. Baking Soda, however, should not take the place of toothpaste.
Next time we'll take a look at mouthwashes.
CHEWING THE FACTS
A PUBLIC SERVICE
OF
CUSPIDS, INC.
Dr. Louis A. Hassell, DDS
3796 Ashley Phosphate Rd.
North Charleston , SC 29418
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