If you’ve been to buy toothpaste recently, you’ll be aware that there are hundreds of different products to choose from, so how do you know which toothpaste is best for you?

Choosing the right toothpaste

If you go to a chemist or a supermarket or you browse online for toothpaste, you will find that there is a huge amount of choice, so how on earth are you supposed to narrow down this array of options to just one tube of toothpaste?

There are lots of different brands, types, flavours and colours of toothpaste and often, the choice you make will come down to these factors: the amount you want to spend, the brands you trust, the flavours you like and the kind of additional features you are looking for in a toothpaste, such as whitening or enamel protection, for example.

When you are choosing a toothpaste, it is best to go for a recognised brand and look out for features that cater to your needs. If you have sensitive teeth, for example, you should use a sensitive toothpaste. Some people prefer specific flavours, such as peppermint or spearmint, while others prefer specific types of toothpaste, such as gel.

If you have questions about choosing toothpaste or any other oral hygiene products, our friendly dentists and dental hygienists can help.

How much toothpaste should I use?

You should follow the recommendations on the product; as a general guide, children should use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste, while adults should use enough to cover the brush head. If you have young children, it is best to use children’s toothpaste, as these products contain less fluoride than adult toothpastes.

How often should I clean my teeth?

You should brush your teeth twice a day, every day for at least 2 minutes each time using fluoride toothpaste. Brushing regularly helps to keep your mouth clean and free from harmful bacteria and plaque.