Strong and beautiful teeth are every person’s dream. That is why special attention should be paid to proper oral hygiene. Toothpaste is an integral part of daily dental and gum care. It can not only maintain oral health, but also reduce the manifestations of various dental diseases. And today we will tell you everything about toothpastes, how to choose, what to look for in the composition, where to buy them.
How many of us buy toothpaste? They make a shopping list, go to the hypermarket and take the first one they come across. If this sounds like you, then most likely you underestimate the role of toothpaste in your health. A good toothpaste protects against caries, ensures that teeth do not lose minerals, and most importantly, does not harm the enamel.
In this article we will analyze in detail the compositions of modern toothpastes and tell you how to choose the right toothpaste.
Prevention of caries
Caries is the most common disease in the world. This is a pathological process of destruction of hard tooth tissues. It begins with a white spot and ends with pulpitis and various septic processes with inevitable tooth loss.
The main cause of caries is bacteria that produce acids. They wash fluoride and calcium out of the tooth tissue and weaken it. Frequent consumption of sweets accelerates the development of carious bacteria: carbohydrates are a favorite environment for their reproduction. Teeth with thinned enamel are also at risk: through microcracks, bacteria penetrate into the dentinal tubules and begin to destroy the tooth from the inside.
The most important stage in effectively combating caries is early diagnosis of the problem and, of course, prevention. Remove plaque at least once every 12 hours, and visit the dentist every 6 months!
In addition to caries, the TOP 5 most common dental problems are:
- Raid.
- Unpleasant smell.
- Sensitive enamel.
- Bleeding gums.
- Color change.
ROCS Active Calcium
pros
- Strengthens enamel
- Reduces sensitivity
- Feeling clean
- Instant whitening
Minuses
- Not a very pleasant taste
- Expensive
From 200 ₽
Paste containing active calcium. This calcium is quickly incorporated into the structure of the teeth, restoring their shine. And also increasing resistance to caries. Low abrasiveness makes it possible to use the composition even for those who have increased sensitivity of teeth and gums.
Types of pastes
According to dentists, the best paste is the one that fully meets the needs of a particular person. Modern manufacturers have significantly expanded the range of their products. And now it is not just a means for cleansing plaque, but also an indispensable assistant in the fight against inflammatory processes, increased sensitivity of enamel, initial carious processes and many other problems. This is unconditional progress, but along with it another problem has appeared: an incorrectly selected product may not only not bring the desired result, but also cause harm.
But first, let's discuss the types of pastes. According to GOST 7983-99, all toothpastes are divided into:
- hygienic,
- therapeutic and prophylactic.
Hygienic pastes are designed for mechanical removal of food debris and plaque from enamel. They contain no drugs.
Therapeutic and prophylactic pastes are intended for the prevention of various oral diseases: caries, gingivitis, periodontal disease. Such pastes have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effects.
Frequently asked questions to the doctor
The best way to brush your teeth
Hello, I would like to know what is better tooth powder or toothpaste?
There is no universal product that could suit everyone. Compared to toothpaste, powder can be chosen based on the following points:
- It is more effective to remove tartar, plaque and other contaminants with a dry hygiene product. Even if the bristles of the brush are soft, the product will still cope with its task.
- Tooth powder not only whitens teeth, but also polishes them. After a few cleanings, you can notice the first result; you won’t be able to achieve this effect with paste.
- The powder strengthens tooth enamel and improves the condition of gums.
- Using the powder, you can normalize the acid-base balance in the oral cavity.
Thus, we can conclude that in many respects tooth powder is superior to toothpaste.
What helps with tartar?
Is it possible to find out which remedy is best for tartar?
The best remedy, according to many dentists, with which you can soften the stone is Belagel-R. It is used for preventive purposes, just apply the product to your teeth for a few minutes, then rinse your mouth and clean.
Which pasta is better?
Tell me, what is the best Russian toothpaste or is it better to give preference to foreign ones?
The best toothpaste made in our country is New Pearl Fluoride. It has a good whitening effect, refreshes the oral cavity, and contains a lot of calcium. The product cost is low. The only drawback that can be highlighted is that some people experience an allergic reaction after use.
Properties of toothpastes
When choosing a paste, it is important to pay attention to its abrasiveness, composition, consistency and taste. A properly selected paste will not only bring benefits, but will also make the cleaning process more enjoyable.
The abrasiveness of the toothpaste determines the intensity of the impact on the enamel. The degree of abrasiveness depends not only on the number of abrasive particles, but also on their size. The larger they are, the more they polish the enamel. The number and size of particles form the abrasiveness index, which is indicated on the paste packaging by the abbreviation RDA.
Types of RDA:
- RDA 0 - for children under 2 years old.
- No more than RDA 20 - for children from 2 years old.
- RDA from 20 to 50 - for sensitive teeth and gums.
- RDA from 50 to 80 - for normal teeth.
- RDA from 80 to 110 - for polishing enamel if you need a slight brightening effect (they should not be used daily).
- Above RDA 110 - for intense brightening effects (not recommended for chips and cracks of enamel, as well as for increased tooth sensitivity).
Due to the fact that children's enamel is even more sensitive than adult enamel (the surface of a child's tooth is much softer and contains fewer minerals), the composition of a child's toothpaste should contain abrasive substances to a minimum. Among them are soda and titanium dioxide. Such elements can activate sensitivity and damage dental tissue in children.
When choosing a paste, pay attention not only to its purpose, smell or taste, but also to its composition!
What if there are problems with teeth?
A completely healthy patient and a patient with dental pathologies need different toothpastes. It is optimal for a doctor to recommend it, only then will the paste be an effective method of treatment. We will advise you on what to pay attention to when choosing care products so as not to harm yourself.
Sensitive teeth
Two types of care products help cope with this problem:
- with potassium nitrate or citrate - have a cumulative effect;
- containing arginine, strontium, NovaMin components - form a protective shell on the teeth. The result after use is noticeable immediately, but it is short-lived.
For effective treatment, the very cause of enamel sensitivity must be eliminated. This may be poor nutrition and calcium deficiency in the body, poor oral hygiene, worn enamel, smoking. A dentist can also help you figure this out.
Periodontal disease and other gum diseases
When choosing a paste for bleeding and periodontal inflammation, we most often focus on its natural composition and the presence of “medicinal herbs.”
But this is another misconception: chamomile, sage, oak bark have a psychological effect rather than proven medical effectiveness. The most they can do for you is to slightly reduce inflammation.
Aluminum lactate, chlorhexidine, triclosan, and tin fluoride have a real hemostatic effect. Look for these ingredients in the ingredients listed on the package.
If your gums are inflamed and bleeding, and instead of going to the dentist, you go to the pharmacy for a paste, even the right one, then the effect will be zero. At first, the symptoms will weaken somewhat, but then the bacteria will cause them again, acquiring resistance to the anti-inflammatory components of the paste.
So, first of all, you need a periodontist who will remove plaque and deposits, and also tell you about proper home oral hygiene.
Yellow enamel
There are two types of whitening toothpastes:
- enzymatic - contain pyrophosphates and polydone, as well as papain or bromelain enzymes;
- abrasive - with calcium carbonate, silicon dioxide or aluminum oxide.
Their effectiveness is approximately the same: they will remove stains from tea, cigarettes or coffee. Abrasives can be used no more than once a week: they have a very aggressive effect on the teeth, since they fight yellowness due to mechanical action. Enzyme - gently dissolve plaque and do not spoil the enamel, so coffee and cigarette lovers can use them constantly.
But to get rid of natural yellowness and achieve a snow-white Hollywood smile, you need to undergo professional teeth cleaning and whitening at the dentist.
What components to look for?
Calcium is the main element of the skeletal system. This mineral strengthens teeth and protects them from caries. Paste with calcium can eliminate caries in the initial stage.
Zinc citrate is an antiseptic that blocks the growth of bacteria and the hardening of minerals that form tartar.
Xylitol is one of the most effective natural components for protection against caries. Actively fights bacteria, restores enamel and increases its strength, moisturizes the oral cavity.
Papain and bromelain are natural enzymes that lighten enamel naturally. They give a more delicate and not as strong whitening effect as peroxides.
Natural extracts are natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic components that can be used daily. Effective complementary therapy for minor bleeding and inflammation of the gums.
Hydroxyapatite is a modern and effective means for restoring and renewing enamel. Fills microcracks and prevents the formation of caries.
Peptides are organic substances that restore damaged gum tissue by normalizing its functioning at the cellular level.
Is fluoride important?
In fact, this is the only substance that can truly prevent tooth decay, which has been confirmed by many years of research. But an excess of fluoride can lead to fluorosis - light spots will begin to appear on the teeth. As Marina Kuznetsova explains, the concentration of fluorides in pastes is not so high as to cause pathology; on the other hand, if there is enough fluoride in drinking water, then there is no need for an additional source. Therefore, through special services, you need to find out what the concentration of fluoride in water is in your region, and based on this, decide whether you need a paste with this microelement or not. As a rule, little fluoride is added to ordinary toothpastes, and there is no need to worry that such prevention may lead to fluorosis. Another thing is the pastes that are sold in pharmacies, but you need to buy them on the recommendation of a doctor.
Toothpastes - how to choose the right one
A good oral care product should not only be effective, but also be as safe as possible. Some manufacturers saturate their products with components, a high concentration of which can cause serious harm to human health in general.
Products based on plant components do not contain harsh chemicals and provide gentle cleansing. Essential oils and extracts of medicinal plants must be supplemented with surfactants (surfactants) - without them, high-quality cleansing is impossible. It’s another matter if the surfactants themselves are of a plant nature, and then we can confidently call the product completely natural. This is a good choice for children as well as adults!
Criterias of choice:
- A type of pasta.
As mentioned above, you need to choose a product based on individual needs and indications. If there are no problems with your teeth and gums, a prophylactic paste would be the best option. If there are problems with the enamel or the condition of the mucous membrane, it is worth considering treatment and preventive options. But in this case, you must first consult a dentist.
- Ingredients included.
Be sure to read the ingredients carefully before purchasing. If there are allergy sufferers in the family, it is important to make sure that there are no components that can provoke allergic reactions.
- Degree of abrasiveness
The presence of abrasive particles ensures high-quality mechanical cleaning of plaque and allows you to return your teeth to their natural whiteness. On the other hand, too long exposure of this kind leads to injury to the enamel, its thinning and hyperesthesia.
- Taste and smell
As for taste and smell, these criteria are left to the discretion of the user. Sometimes a too strong taste can cause unpleasant sensations or even gag reflexes - this also needs to be taken into account.
Adult toothpastes
Such toothpastes have the ability to eliminate pathogenic bacteria and freshen breath. Prevents the appearance of plaque and tartar.
✅Toothpaste “Comprehensive care” LAVERA
The toothpaste contains organic echinacea and calcium, which have an anti-inflammatory effect on the gums and improve the health of the oral cavity.
The highly effective fluoride-free formula is rich in natural minerals, gently cleanses, protects the oral cavity from bacteria and freshens breath! With regular use, it prevents the appearance of tartar. Suitable for children. Does not contain fluorine and microplastics.
The German brand Lavera is the first in Germany among organic cosmetics! And the Germans, as you know, know a lot about the quality of natural products!
The naturalness and safety of the product is confirmed by the international standard NATRUE.
✅Refreshing toothpaste “Mint” COSLYS
Toothpaste, thanks to its 100% natural formula with calcium carbonate and aloe vera, gently cleanses teeth and prevents plaque.
Stevia extract, menthol and mint essential oil provide a pleasant, refreshing taste. Does not contain fluorine, titanium dioxide and synthetic dyes.
The French brand Coslys not only produces natural cosmetics, but also cares about reducing its eco-footprint.
The naturalness and safety of the product is confirmed by the international standard COSMOS ORGANIC.
Unflavored toothpastes
Such pastes are suitable for pregnant women, people with various taste intolerances and for homeopathic treatment. They do not contain mint and do not cause nausea.
✅Organic toothpaste for pregnant women (for allergy sufferers) AZETA BIO
The toothpaste was created specifically for pregnant women and people with various taste intolerances. Its delicate, special taste does not cause nausea.
Thanks to its special formula with aloe and xylitol, it perfectly protects and cares for tooth enamel and gums. And Barbados aloe extract provides a mild soothing and antibacterial effect.
Clinical studies confirm that regular use of toothpaste reduces the formation of plaque and the number of microorganisms that cause caries. The naturalness and safety of the product is confirmed by the international standard AIAB bio eco cosmesi.
✅Toothpaste “Zero Balance” SPLAT
Hypoallergenic toothpaste is odorless and has a subtle sweet taste. Great for protecting against tooth decay and keeping your breath fresh.
Active components: silver in active form (a powerful antibacterial component and antiseptic), potassium glycyrrhizinate (an active component of licorice root, which has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects), perilla seed extract (suppresses the growth of cariogenic microorganisms, preventing the formation of caries).
Clinically proven effectiveness after 4 weeks of use:
36.3% anti-caries effect - 36.3%, cleansing effect - 63.6%, anti-inflammatory effect - 37.5%.
Children's toothpastes
Children's teeth are especially susceptible to tooth decay because tooth enamel is not yet as strong as that of adults. In addition, caries of primary teeth has a direct impact on molars.
Children's toothpaste should not contain fluoride and its derivatives! According to statistics, about 30% of toothpaste is swallowed by young children while brushing their teeth, so children's oral care products should be as safe as possible.
Children are allowed to use adult toothpastes from the age of 14; until this time, parents must buy special children's products.
You can read more about caring for baby teeth in the article “TEETH CARE FROM CHILDHOOD - DENTIST’S ADVICE.”
The requirements for this category of pastes are special. This is exactly the case when you cannot trust only one package. The components in the composition must be gentle.
Foaming agents in children's toothpastes should be contained in minimal quantities or completely absent. Flavoring and aromatic additives should be natural ingredients.
✅Children's toothpaste “Strawberry-Cherry” SPLAT
The toothpaste is intended for children from 2 to 6 years old. The innovative LUCTATOL® system based on licorice extract and lactic enzymes destroys cariogenic bacteria and blocks their further development.
The effectiveness has been clinically proven: cleansing effect - 41.7%, remineralizing effect - 34%, anti-inflammatory effect - 48.4%.
Intensive strengthening of enamel is ensured by calcium hydroxyapatite (nHap).
Active ingredients: grape seed extract (effective in combating the cariogenic bacterium Streptococcus mutans), L-Arginine (helps strengthen enamel), Aloe Vera gel (has an anti-inflammatory effect)
✅Organic toothpaste with xylitol “Raspberry” AZETA BIO
The toothpaste is suitable for children from 3 to 7 years old. Specially designed for gentle care of delicate gums and tooth enamel. The natural remedy prevents the development of osteoporosis because it helps increase bone density.
Xylitol promotes calcium absorption and improves enamel mineralization. The substance stimulates saliva production and reduces plaque deposits.
Aloe juice extract has an anti-inflammatory, astringent effect, soothes irritated gums and aphthae.
Sorbitol has an anti-caries effect, which is associated with a decrease in the production of organic acids in the enamel.
Environmentally friendly composition and packaging made from renewable and recycled materials.
The naturalness and safety of the product is confirmed by the international standard AIAB bio eco cosmesi.
Compound
When choosing a paste, first of all you need to read its composition. It may contain natural and artificial components.
Common synthetic ingredients include:
- an antiseptic to fight germs, most often chlorhexidine;
- thickeners such as paraffin;
- mint or menthol additives;
- fortified products;
- dyes;
- foam formers.
"Strawberry & red clay", complex toothpaste
Compositions with natural ingredients, which are found in most oral care products, are valued:
- For cleaning - salt, clay, chalk, silicon dioxide.
- For taste - sweeteners, usually sorbitol, xylitol.
- Natural thickeners - gum, algae, food glycerin.
- Sodium citrate and zinc - remove plaque from the enamel surface and regulate acidity.
- Herbal infusions, extracts.
- Natural preservatives.
Blueberry & Charcoal, bioactive toothpaste
To prevent and treat diseases of the gums and enamel, medicinal herbs are added to toothpastes. The following herbs are most often found in formulations:
- Oak bark - relieves inflammation.
- St. John's wort, millennial, calendula, ginseng, chamomile, cloves - reduce sensitivity.
- Chitin and chitosan help in the treatment of periodontal disease.
- Rapa - fights excessive bleeding of gums.
"Kinotto & Lemongrass", refreshing toothpaste
Toothpaste. Daily care and sensitivity reduction
Attention! Pastes with the addition of natural propolis have an antibacterial effect. Such compositions promote the healing of microcracks on the gums.
Review of the best products from top manufacturers
Before choosing and buying a product, it will be useful to familiarize yourself with the top popular manufacturers in the selected segment. Above we have already mentioned such well-known companies as Colgate, Blend-a-Med, and Aquafresh - these are reliable manufacturers that you can trust. Now let’s look at a small rating of other brands with the best reputation and proven effectiveness of their products.
Line "Lakalut"
One of the most popular brands in Russia and in the world. The German brand has proven itself well as a manufacturer of high-quality and safe oral care products. The line includes a standard antibacterial paste that is suitable for daily use. There are lactic acid salts here, which provide a pronounced anti-caries effect and help cope with inflammation.
Price: from 180 to 300 rubles for whitening
Splat Lavendercept
Another popular, but this time a Russian brand, offering a wide range of products for various purposes. Lavandasept especially stands out among other Splat products - experts recommend it for sensitive teeth and gums. It copes well with pathogenic microflora, provides antiseptic treatment of tissues, and prevents the spread of inflammatory processes. There is also a small content of whitening components, but they have the most gentle effect and do not pose a threat to the health and integrity of the enamel.
Price: 130 rubles
Hygienic ROCS
A well-known Swiss brand that produces high-quality products with the most natural composition. It was the safety of the active components that helped this brand become so popular and in demand. By the way, the manufacturer’s assortment includes a separate line called “Antitabak”. The main component here is a special enzyme that helps loosen and dissolve tobacco and coffee deposits. Vitamin E provides additional strengthening of dental tissues and prevents their destruction, while baobab extract normalizes the acid-base balance in the oral cavity.
Price: from 260 rubles
PresiDENT "Antibacterial"
A safe composition, as close to natural as possible, is one of the features that distinguishes the products of this brand from similar products on the market. Provides gentle cleansing of plaque, prevents the growth of pathogenic microflora and the development of carious processes. Fluorine is present, but its concentration is minimal. It should also be noted that PresiDENT “Antibacterial” contains a fairly powerful antiseptic chlorhexidine, so experts recommend using it in courses of 2 weeks.
Price: 300 rubles
CREST paste
One of the best representatives of its segment, which is confirmed by numerous enthusiastic reviews from users on the network. The product is not cheap, but effective. Its regular use helps solve a whole range of problems: remove plaque and pigmented spots, whiten enamel (1-2 tones), prevent the development of caries, provide high-quality antiseptic treatment of tissues and freshen breath.
Price: from 650 rubles
SENSODINE line
Another brand with an impeccable reputation and numerous confirmations of the high quality, safety and effectiveness of its products. The products contain natural ingredients, so most of them are suitable for everyday use. They provide complete prevention of caries and inflammatory effects, promote the formation of a protective shell on the teeth and mucous membranes, which prevents the rapid growth of pathogenic microflora.
Price: from 160 rubles
Brand SILCA
The products of this German production are presented in a wide range. The variety of the line makes it possible to choose the option that best suits your specific needs. There are products here with a pronounced anti-caries effect, whitening agents, helping to strengthen the gums and get rid of bleeding. The range also includes preventative formulations suitable for daily use.
Price: from 70 rubles
Dentavit "Sensitive"
This product is suitable for brushing teeth with increased sensitivity - hyperesthesia. Active components help reduce swelling and pain, help restore the condition of not only the enamel, but also the gums. There are no aggressive chemicals that could pose a threat to the health of the oral cavity and the body as a whole. Dentavit “Sensitive” is the optimal choice in terms of price and quality.
Price: 130 rubles
Kobayashi with charcoal and mint herbs
Japanese paste is included in the rating of the best, and also has a powerful whitening effect. Its use allows you to achieve a pronounced and at the same time lasting result with minimal risk of damage to the enamel. The contents of the tube have an unusual black color because it is based on charcoal. It is a natural abrasive with a pronounced absorbent effect. Kobayashi is not suitable for daily use, but it always helps in cases where you need to significantly brighten your smile.
Price: from 450 rubles
"Apadent" with a filling effect
An excellent medicinal paste with nano-hydroxyapatite in its composition helps strengthen enamel and prevents the destruction of dental tissues due to carious processes. The manufacturer claims the filling effect of its product. The product saturates hard tissues with useful minerals and trace elements, provides surface mineralization, effectively relieves acute inflammation, and also prevents the development of caries and gum disease. Suitable also for dentures and sensitive teeth.
Price: from 1200 rubles
Medicinal Mexidol
The Mexidol product is devoid of fluoride and aggressive antimicrobial components. The basis is an active substance of the same name - it effectively eliminates acute signs of the inflammatory process, helps soften hardened dental plaque, and copes well with plaque and age spots from coffee and nicotine. Reduces swelling of soft tissues and normalizes blood circulation in the mucosa. Be sure to consult your dentist before purchasing.
Price: from 160 rubles
Russian brand "Forest Balsam"
Another Russian brand whose products are of high quality and affordable price. The natural formula ensures gentle cleansing of plaque and gentle saturation of dental tissues with beneficial microelements. Plant extracts help reduce swelling during gum inflammation and eliminate bleeding. The product perfectly freshens breath and protects teeth from pathological processes.
Price: from 80 rubles
