Talking with a family dentist about how to practice good oral hygiene is a great way to ensure a healthy set of teeth and gums. One topic that family dentists often discuss is toothpaste. The use of toothpaste is a necessity for good oral health in both children and adults.
There are a few tips and recommendations that family dentists often provide to patients who are looking to improve their oral hygiene routine. This information can be helpful to families looking to improve their oral and dental health. Ready to learn more?
4 Tips from a family dentist about toothpaste
The following toothpaste tips from a family dentist should be taken into consideration.
1. Use toothpaste at least twice a day
Family dentists state that using toothpaste at least twice a day is necessary in order to maintain good oral health. Patients — both children and adults — should brush their teeth after every meal or at least twice a day, using toothpaste.
The agents in toothpaste help to remove bacteria, reduce staining and lower the chance of cavities forming. Children and adults eat a lot of things throughout the day that can cause a buildup of bacteria, which can only be washed away through the use of toothpaste.
2. Do not overuse whitening toothpaste
A lot of adults use a whitening toothpaste to lighten their teeth and remove stains. While family dentists do not oppose the use of whitening toothpaste, they do make it a point to remind patients to limit the use of it. Toothpaste that has whitening agents can strip the enamel if it is overused. Additionally, sensitivity can occur which can be uncomfortable.
Family dentists also recommend that only adult patients use whitening toothpaste. Children should avoid this kind of toothpaste as their teeth are still growing and developing, and the whitening agents can be too strong and potentially harmful.
3. Sensitivity toothpaste can be helpful
Some people experience sensitivity to hot and cold things, such as soup or ice cream. When sensitivity occurs, family dentists often recommend a toothpaste that helps reduce the sensation. A lot of store-bought toothpaste can be used to reduce sensitivity and some family dentists can even prescribe a special toothpaste.
4. Use a pea-sized dab of toothpaste when brushing
There is a common misconception that a lot of toothpaste should be used when brushing; however, family dentists actually state differently. Children should use a very small amount of fluoride-free toothpaste when brushing. Adults should use no more than a pea-sized amount of toothpaste.
Too much toothpaste can actually do damage to the teeth by demineralizing the enamel and weakening the strength of the tooth.
Get started with a family dentist
Tips on toothpaste are just one of the many things that family dentists have to offer. Any questions or concerns about general dentistry tips, such as brushing techniques or oral hygiene routines, should be addressed by a family dentist. Contact our office today.
Request an appointment here:http://dentistinsanclemente.comor call Nina Basti DDS at(949) 201-4719for an appointment in our San Clemente office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Recent Posts
For individuals with crooked or misaligned teeth, a dental provider may recommend wearing braces as a corrective treatment. Patients may be able to choose between clear braces or metal braces, depending on the condition of the teeth and mouth. Though the overall goal of straightening the teeth is one reason many pursue braces, there are…
Patients who are ready to take the step and get dentures now have more options than would have had in the last five to 10 years.As dental technology continues to advance, patients who have one or more missing teeth now have several options for them to choose from with their dentist.For individuals that are ready…
Dental fillings can last a long time, but they are not life-long restorations. Most fillings will need to be replaced after around a decade, with some types lasting longer than others. If you are wondering whether it is time to replace your old dental filling, be aware that as long as it is continuing to…
A dental implant is the gold standard in dental restorations. It can replace an entire tooth structure from the crown to the roots. This tooth replacement can enhance your oral function and health. Here are the details on how a dental implant can improve your quality of life.Research shows that oral structures work together to…