Toothpastes: Whitening, Sensitive, Charcoal, SLS Free. What does it all REALLY mean

Everytime I go into the supermarket I am always curious to see how people pick toothpaste on the dental aisle. Like clockwork I always walk past there to see people just staring blankly at what feels like a million different options to pick from. I think they are hoping if they stare at it long enough they will hear it talk to them , “PICK ME,PICK ME”. As a dental hygienist, I often come across patients who are confused about the wide variety of toothpaste available on the market. From whitening toothpaste to sensitivity toothpaste, from fluoride free to SLS-free options, it can be overwhelming to know which one is right for you. Is it all marketing or is there a real difference in what each of these paste has to offer and could it be beneficial for you?

Let me give you a little backstory on toothpaste, the earliest evidence of toothpaste usage dates back to ancient Egypt around 5000 BC. The Egyptians used a mixture of crushed rock salt, mint, iris flowers, and pepper to create a primitive toothpaste. Similarly, other ancient cultures like the Greeks, Romans, and Chinese also developed their own versions of toothpaste using ingredients such as crushed bones, oyster shells, and various herbs. During the Middle Ages, oral hygiene practices were relatively basic. People used materials like ashes, burnt bread, and crushed charcoal to clean their teeth. These substances were abrasive and helped remove plaque, but they did not have any specific oral health benefits. In the 18th century, a breakthrough occurred when a British physician named Dr. William Addis invented the first modern toothbrush. This led to the development of tooth powders, which were used with the toothbrush for cleaning teeth. Tooth powders commonly contained ingredients like chalk, powdered fruit, or even brick dust. However, they were often gritty and did not have a pleasant taste. In the 19th century, toothpaste started to take a more recognizable form. In 1850, Dr. Washington Wentworth Sheffield introduced the first commercially produced toothpaste in a collapsible tube. The toothpaste contained soap, chalk, and essential oils. This invention made toothpaste more convenient and hygienic to use. In the early 20th century, advancements in dental science led to the inclusion of more beneficial ingredients in toothpaste. Fluoride, a mineral known for its cavity-fighting properties, was added to toothpaste in the 1910s. This marked a significant milestone in preventing tooth decay. Throughout the 20th century, flavorings and sweeteners were also introduced to make toothpaste more appealing.

All that to say, does it really matter which one you choose ? The answer is YES….. AND NO. For as long as I can remember I have always bought the cheapest toothpaste that had the best flavor. At the end of the day we all really striving for that minty fresh feel and fresh breath. Truth be told I even used to buy it at the dollar store until I realized that a lot of the times those products were expired. YIKES! I then went to a dental convention a few years back and am always enamored with how they market to dental professionals all the difference toothpaste out there and what they are capable of. Crest used to have a toothpaste called Night, needless to say I was intrigued, after all at night our salivary flow reduces… so it would make sense that this toothpaste would offer something different than its counterpart DAY. Afterall, it’s likely only HYGIENE FREAKS are the only people buying 2 different night and day toothpastes. After speaking with the rep for Crest he basically said it was mostly marketing and there was not a lot of difference between the two. I was outraged. I cannot stand being scammed for the purpose of a company making a dollar, so let’s dive into the difference and clear up the muddy waters.

WHITENING TOOTHPASTE

Whitening toothpaste is designed to remove surface stains and restore the natural whiteness of your teeth. These toothpastes contain mild abrasives that help to polish and brighten your teeth. However, it's important to note that whitening toothpaste cannot change the actual color of your teeth or provide dramatic results like professional teeth whitening treatments. If you have mild staining or want to maintain the whiteness of your teeth after professional whitening, whitening toothpaste can be a good option for you. I call these toothpaste BRIGHTENERS NOT WHITENERS. Compare it to a person with olive skin tone, getting that sun kissed glow after spending a day at the beach. This isn’t taking fair skinned, red headed Molly, to a brazilian golden brown complexion. It just doesn’t have the properties and ingredients to do that, and well Molly…. she’s just gonna end up BURNED! If you already have white teeth but just have had a couple too many Starbucks, this may help you get back to the brightness you desire.

My favorites are:

Colgate Optic White Professional series : https://amzn.to/3ugbcAX

Crest 3D White Brilliance 2 step kit : https://amzn.to/3UwiFq1

Crest Gum Detoxify + Whitening : https://amzn.to/3OAUhzL

SENSITIVITY TOOTHPASTE

Many people struggle with tooth sensitivity, which can cause discomfort or pain when consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks. Sensitivity toothpaste is specially formulated to help reduce tooth sensitivity over time. These toothpastes contain ingredients like potassium nitrate or strontium chloride, as well as combines with stannous fluoride or sodium fluoride which help to block the nerve endings in the teeth, and create micro layers of protection reducing sensitivity. There are many different types of sensitive toothpaste available on the market, I tell people that if one doesn’t work to try one with a different active ingredient.

Sensodyne Pronamel: https://amzn.to/49lVran Great for those with recession or abrasion

Sensodyne Sensitivty & Gum Therapy: https://amzn.to/3ur4xE0 - Great for those with gingivitis

Sensodyne Gum Detoxify : MY FAVORITE TOOTHPASTE : https://amzn.to/48dNt1U Great for overall clean combined with the Oral B iO leaves you with the “just elaving the dental office clean feleing “

3. SLS-Free Toothpaste:

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is a common ingredient found in many toothpaste brands. It is responsible for the foaming action that helps to distribute the toothpaste evenly in the mouth. However, some individuals may be sensitive or allergic to SLS, experiencing mouth ulcers or dryness. SLS-free toothpaste eliminates this ingredient and provides a gentler option for those who experience irritation or allergic reactions. If you have a history of mouth ulcers or dryness, switching to an SLS-free toothpaste could be beneficial for you.

Tom’s Botanically Bright: https://amzn.to/42x6hIx

Crest Densify: https://amzn.to/3UCcOiV

Burt Bee’s Complete Multicare: https://amzn.to/497xXWI

4. Fluoride Toothpaste:

Fluoride is a mineral that plays a crucial role in preventing tooth decay and strengthening tooth enamel. Most toothpaste brands contain fluoride, as it is considered one of the most effective ways to prevent cavities. Using fluoride toothpaste twice a day, along with proper brushing techniques, can significantly reduce your risk of developing tooth decay. It is important to note that children under the age of two should use fluoride-free toothpaste to avoid overexposure to fluoride.

Hello Mighty Multi tasker - 8 in 1 Fluoride toothpaste : https://amzn.to/3waoNdE

Crest Gum Detoxify : https://amzn.to/4bvOlSD

Crest ProHealth Anti Bacterial Protection: https://amzn.to/3w9L3Ed

When it comes to choosing the right toothpaste, it's essential to consider your specific oral health needs. Whitening toothpaste is suitable for those looking to maintain their teeth's brightness, while sensitivity toothpaste provides relief for those with tooth sensitivity. SLS-free toothpaste is a gentler option for individuals with mouth ulcers or dryness, and fluoride toothpaste is vital for cavity prevention. Remember to consult with your dentist or dental hygienist to determine the best toothpaste for your individual needs. Regular brushing, along with routine dental visits, will help you maintain a healthy and beautiful smile.