A Quick Guide to Toothpaste
These days, options vary from whitening formulas to those designed to tackle plaque, freshen breath and provide fluoride protection.
You can even find specialized toothpastes aimed at individuals with sensitive teeth or specific cavity prevention needs. With so many choices, it’s essential to know what will work best for you.
Every toothpaste on the market seems enticing. We all desire bright white teeth and fresh breath and most of us want to avoid those dreaded cavities. But how can we tell if we're just falling for clever advertising. After all, trying three or four different toothpastes daily isn't practical!
But did you realise the true fact is that many toothpastes have the same basic ingredients – the extra element that gives them a marketing spin is often simply an added twist to the same standard recipe.
Most well-known toothpaste brands utilize a basic formula. Typically, this includes fluoride, which plays a crucial role in protecting your teeth from decay. Additionally, powdered calcium is often present, aiding in strengthening teeth and eliminating stains. Beyond these main ingredients, various flavorings and foaming agents are also included.
Dental health experts stress that a toothpaste with the basic formula should be suffice to maintain your teeth's health and prevent decay. However, it’s crucial to remember that toothpaste alone won’t do the trick - you do need to put in some effort too! Dentists recommend brushing twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste for at least two minutes each time.
Beyond that, your choice of toothpaste often boils down to personal preference. For instance, many adults opt for whitening toothpaste. It’s wise to consult your dentist before making a switch, as some whitening options can be quite abrasive and might actually harm your teeth instead of helping them. Also, keep in mind that everyone’s teeth are different, so what works for one person may not yield the same results for another.
HAPPY BRUSHING.
Dental Fillings
Fillings are a routine dental procedure and there are several types available.
White (composite) fillings are often more expensive than traditional options, so dentists typically recommend them only for highly visible areas.
Amalgam fillings, usually silver or black in color, are a classic choice and are made from a blend of metals. Many patients opt for amalgam fillings due to their durability and affordability.
When visiting your dentist, it’s worth asking about alternative filling options. Although some may be pricier than amalgam, options like composite resins, glass ionomer, or ceramic fillings offer mercury-free choices and may better suit certain areas of the mouth.
Mouth Ulcers
Mouth ulcers are painful, uncomfortable and quite frustrating as the exact causes aren't fully understood, there isn't a one-size-fits-all treatment solution.
Often, it is just a matter of managing the discomfort until the ulcer heals.
If you are experiencing significant pain, many find relief by gargling with soluble aspirin or using iced water as a rinse.
It's wise to steer clear of foods that could irritate the ulcers further, which typically includes hot and spicy dishes, as well as hot beverages.
However, there are a number of over-the-counter remedies available to help relieve the discomfort caused by mouth ulcers.
While brands may differ, most contain a gel with pain-relieving properties.
If you frequently suffer from mouth ulcers, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor as well as your dentist to seek further advice.