Tips for choosing the best whitening toothpaste

If you have yellow or stained teeth, you may be looking for toothpaste that can restore your smile. There are many toothpaste brands on the market that can gradually whiten your teeth. However, choosing the best one for you can be challenging.

Toothpaste advertising is all over the place and you may feel overwhelmed when making a decision. To get you started on the right path, you should look out for certain key ingredients that every whitening toothpaste should contain.

Consider the following factors while toothpaste shopping.

1. The active ingredient

All whitening toothpastes operate via a bleaching agent. The bleaching agent is what works on your teeth to remove stains and the yellow coating. Peroxide is the most common bleaching agent used in whitening toothpaste.

Depending on how extensively your teeth are stained, you should select a toothpaste with the appropriate peroxide concentration (consult your dentist to get the actual number). Higher concentrations will yield faster and better results.

2. How powerful is it against germs?

Another important factor to consider is how powerful the toothpaste is against germs. Plaque and tartar are a leading cause of stained or yellow teeth. When germs and bacteria accumulate in your teeth and gums, they produce deposits of plaque that eventually cause staining.

Make sure your toothpaste has pyrophosphates that can fight plaque and keep your teeth in good hygienic condition. Proper hygiene is essential during the whitening process. 

3. Consider fluoride content

Strong teeth are better candidates for whitening. In fact, decaying teeth, loose teeth, or infected gums all interfere with your smile. Make sure your toothpaste has adequate fluoride content. Fluoride strengthens the teeth, fights cavities and keeps your gums healthy. Brushing with fluoride-rich toothpaste at least twice a day will help keep your teeth strong.

4. Sensitivity is also important

Some whitening toothpastes tend to cause sensitivity in your teeth. If you have highly sensitive teeth, look for toothpaste brands that are rich in baking soda.

Baking soda is lowly abrasive and causes minimal irritation to sensitive teeth. Just make sure there's enough peroxide content to remove those stubborn stains.

5. Consult your dentist 

It's also a good idea to consult your dentist when looking for a whitening toothpaste. Your dentist knows the current state of your teeth and what you'll need to do to restore a bright smile.

Dentists can help you select a toothpaste brand that's powerful enough against stains, yet gentle enough on sensitive teeth. Visit an office that offers cosmetic dentistry for more information.


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