What toothpaste should I use?
Choose a fluoride toothpaste with the ADA Seal that you will use twice a day. We have fluoride-free options for patients who prefer them.
The short answer
The American Dental Association recommends brushing with a fluoride toothpaste. Choose one that carries its Seal of Acceptance, in a flavour you like enough to use twice a day.
For the brush, read what to brush with.
What to look for on the box
Four things to check
Does it list fluoride?
Fluoride is the ingredient that helps prevent decay. It is listed as an active ingredient.
Does it carry the ADA Seal?
Products with the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance meet rigorous standards for safety and effectiveness, as evaluated by the ADA’s Council on Scientific Affairs.
Is it for a need you have?
Sensitivity, tartar, whitening and gum care pastes are all on the shelf. Pick one that matches a need you have.
Will you use it twice a day?
Flavour and texture matter, because a paste you like is one you will keep using.
Fluoride, and the fluoride-free option
Fluoride helps prevent decay. The American Dental Association recommends brushing with a fluoride toothpaste, and the American Academy of Pediatrics gives the same advice for children.
Some patients prefer to avoid fluoride. We have fluoride-free options available. If that is you, say so at your visit.
Sensitivity, whitening and the rest
- Pastes made for sensitive teeth are one option. Sensitivity that is sharp, in one tooth, or getting worse needs a dentist’s look, since it can come from a cavity, a crack or worn enamel.
- Whitening toothpaste mostly polishes away surface stain and does not change the colour of the tooth itself. How it compares with strips, gels and trays is in professional vs over-the-counter whitening.
- Tartar-control pastes can slow new tartar forming. They do not remove tartar that is already there; that takes a professional cleaning.
- The American Dental Association says there is no evidence that dental products with charcoal are safe or effective for your teeth. Ask the dentist about any paste you are unsure of.
How much to use
The American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics advise a little fluoride toothpaste, about the size of a grain of rice, for children under 3, and a pea-sized amount for children 3 to 6. For anyone older, ask the office how much suits you.
Spit out the extra. The American Academy of Pediatrics says children do not need to rinse their mouths with water after brushing.
Next step
If you are unsure which paste suits your teeth, or you have sensitivity or a child who is just starting to brush, call the office and ask.