Dr. Stephanie Sfiroudis, DDS, MS
Nassau County Periodontist
99 Hillside Ave. Suite A. Williston Park, NY 11596
(516) 747-1145
Nassau County Periodontist
99 Hillside Ave. Suite A. Williston Park, NY 11596
(516) 747-1145
Choosing the Best Toothpaste
Choosing the Best Toothpaste for Your Needs
Which Toothpaste is Best for You?
Toothpaste (Dentifrice) helps remove the sticky film that forms on your gums and teeth, otherwise known as plaque, therefore, it should be a vital part of your daily oral hygiene routine. Toothpaste is available in a variety of forms including gel, pastes and powder forms as well as different flavors including spearmint and cinnamon, etc. A good toothpaste protects against tooth decay as well as addresses your special needs. Some special dental needs include:
Fluoride Toothpaste - All ADA approved toothpastes contain the naturally occurring mineral, fluoride. Fluoride helps remove plaque, which can lead to gum disease, and helps strengthen tooth enamel to safeguard against tooth decay. For more than 50 years, fluoride has been influential in the reduction in cavity occurrence and tooth decay. Brushing and spitting, without rinsing, allows more time for the fluoride to work, which is especially beneficial to individuals who are prone to cavities. Prescription cavity fighters are also available.
Whitening Toothpaste - Individuals plagued by yellow or stained teeth may benefit from whitening toothpaste. Contrary to popular belief, whitening pastes do not contain bleach. Alternatively, they contain gentle abrasives that helps remove stains and deter the buildup of future stains. However, they may not be as effective on more mature stains. Opt for products that include modified silicone abrasives, which will not damage the teeth.
Sensitive Teeth Toothpaste - Brushing too harshly can lead to sensitive gums and exposed roots, which can cause teeth to be easily irritated by cold or hot temperatures, etc. Toothpastes that contain potassium nitrate or strontium chloride have desensitizing effects. These compounds work by obstructing pathways that connect nerves to the inner part of the teeth, which helps reduce the pain. Sensitive teeth toothpaste can take up to 4 weeks to provide relief.
Tartar Control Toothpaste - Tartar (Calculus) is bacterial plaque that has hardened. Once tartar has formed, the only way to remove it is to visit your hygienist. Tartar control toothpastes include tartar-fighting ingredients such as zinc citrate or pyrophosphates that prevent plaque from hardening. Toothpastes containing multiple anti-plaque agents have been proven to be even more effective than those with only one plaque fighter. Some tartar control toothpastes also contain triclosan, an antibiotic which destroys some of the bacteria in the mouth.
All Natural Toothpaste - ADA approved, all natural/herbal toothpastes can be just as effective as traditional toothpastes. Just be sure it includes the ADA seal to ensure it is effective.
Denture Toothpaste - Regular toothpaste is just as effective for regular teeth as it is for dentures. However, effervescent tablets have been shown to clean dentures more effectively than brushing.
Children's Toothpaste - A fun toothpaste can encourage your child to brush longer, which can greatly increase their oral health. Toothpastes formulated for children contain mild ingredients that will not burn or irritate their delicate mouths. To instill good oral habits in your child, opt for sparkly, fruit flavored toothpaste to entice them to want to brush their teeth.
Some fun toothpastes to get your child to brush their teeth include:
Please contact Dr. Stephanie Sfiroudis for a free consultation regarding any questions or concerns about your periodontal health.
- Cavity protection
- Stained teeth
- Teeth sensitivity
- Tartar control
- Dentures
- Children's toothpaste
Fluoride Toothpaste - All ADA approved toothpastes contain the naturally occurring mineral, fluoride. Fluoride helps remove plaque, which can lead to gum disease, and helps strengthen tooth enamel to safeguard against tooth decay. For more than 50 years, fluoride has been influential in the reduction in cavity occurrence and tooth decay. Brushing and spitting, without rinsing, allows more time for the fluoride to work, which is especially beneficial to individuals who are prone to cavities. Prescription cavity fighters are also available.
Whitening Toothpaste - Individuals plagued by yellow or stained teeth may benefit from whitening toothpaste. Contrary to popular belief, whitening pastes do not contain bleach. Alternatively, they contain gentle abrasives that helps remove stains and deter the buildup of future stains. However, they may not be as effective on more mature stains. Opt for products that include modified silicone abrasives, which will not damage the teeth.
Sensitive Teeth Toothpaste - Brushing too harshly can lead to sensitive gums and exposed roots, which can cause teeth to be easily irritated by cold or hot temperatures, etc. Toothpastes that contain potassium nitrate or strontium chloride have desensitizing effects. These compounds work by obstructing pathways that connect nerves to the inner part of the teeth, which helps reduce the pain. Sensitive teeth toothpaste can take up to 4 weeks to provide relief.
Tartar Control Toothpaste - Tartar (Calculus) is bacterial plaque that has hardened. Once tartar has formed, the only way to remove it is to visit your hygienist. Tartar control toothpastes include tartar-fighting ingredients such as zinc citrate or pyrophosphates that prevent plaque from hardening. Toothpastes containing multiple anti-plaque agents have been proven to be even more effective than those with only one plaque fighter. Some tartar control toothpastes also contain triclosan, an antibiotic which destroys some of the bacteria in the mouth.
All Natural Toothpaste - ADA approved, all natural/herbal toothpastes can be just as effective as traditional toothpastes. Just be sure it includes the ADA seal to ensure it is effective.
Denture Toothpaste - Regular toothpaste is just as effective for regular teeth as it is for dentures. However, effervescent tablets have been shown to clean dentures more effectively than brushing.
Children's Toothpaste - A fun toothpaste can encourage your child to brush longer, which can greatly increase their oral health. Toothpastes formulated for children contain mild ingredients that will not burn or irritate their delicate mouths. To instill good oral habits in your child, opt for sparkly, fruit flavored toothpaste to entice them to want to brush their teeth.
Some fun toothpastes to get your child to brush their teeth include:
- Toothpaste decorated with their favorite superheroes
- Tasty flavors like berry, bubble gum and watermelon, etc.
- Toothpastes with a pump
- Toothpaste with swirls and sparkles
Please contact Dr. Stephanie Sfiroudis for a free consultation regarding any questions or concerns about your periodontal health.
Patient Testimonials
“I chose Dr. Sfiroudis as my Periodontist, and I couldn't be happier with my choice and my new implants.”
“I chose Dr. Sfiroudis as my Periodontist, and I couldn't be happier with my choice and my new implants.”
-Kerri S.
Wantagh, NY
Wantagh, NY
Dr. Stephanie Sfiroudis, DDS, MS
99 Hillside Ave. Suite A.
Williston Park , New York 11596
Phone: (516) 747-1145
Williston Park , New York 11596
