What is the most essential item of your oral hygiene kit? The truth is, not one single product would be as effective without the others. Floss gets the trapped debris from between your teeth which your toothbrush can’t reach. Toothbrushes scrub and scour germs, particles, and plaque from all you’re your teeth’s surfaces. And then, there’s that old reliable tube of toothpaste. Toothpaste recipes have evolved over the years. Mass marketing has made it possible for anyone with a dollar or two in their pocket to pick up a tube of the flavored, breath freshening goo whenever needed. How clear are you on your toothpaste facts?
Fact #1: Toothpaste Expires
The American Dental Association (ADA) requires expiration dates on toothpaste. It’s not so much that toothpaste “goes bad” as it is that certain compounds are rendered less effective over time. There are many different recipes for toothpaste, but most are infused with some amount of fluoride. If you want fluoride to remain potent in your pastes and gels, simply follow those dates which are usually about two years after manufacturing took place.
Fact #2: There May be Detergent in your Toothpaste
Ideally, you aren’t swallowing your toothpaste, so should it matter that the brand you choose could contain the same compound used to make soaps bubble up and foam? Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) is the reason that your toothpaste foams as it mixes with your saliva and is agitated around by your toothbrush. SLS can also alter the way certain foods and beverages taste for a half hour or so after you brush your teeth.
Fact #3: Some Whitening Toothpastes are too Abrasive if you have Cosmetic Dental Work
Dental bonding, porcelain veneers, white crowns, and dental implants are all great because they can be treated just like natural teeth. In fact, they should be treated that way, including brushing and flossing twice a day. However, you may want to avoid highly abrasive toothpastes. These are often the brands that boast whitening power or baking soda as an additive. Porcelain can scratch over time, and it’s best to keep the environment in your mouth a bit gentler if you want your cosmetic dental work to last.
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At the Dental Centre of Conroe, we believe in providing the latest amenities and advanced technology to ensure every patient enjoys a comfortable experience. Whether you require cosmetic dentistry for an improved smile or dental prosthetics to replace lost teeth, we can help you and your family achieve beautiful, healthy smiles that last a lifetime. To schedule an appointment, call (936) 441-4600. We proudly service residents of Conroe, Willis, Montgomery, The Woodlands, Huntsville, and surrounding communities in the greater Houston area.
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