In my experience, I have encountered many patients who have misconceptions about the use of toothpaste. Once, a patient who had been using the same brand of toothpaste for many years came to my clinic and complained that he had been feeling sensitive and uncomfortable lately. This patient thought that toothpaste was like shampoo and could be used forever once the right one was found. However, just as we need to adjust our shampoo to the condition of our hair, the needs of the mouth are changing, and the toothpaste should also be adjusted in due course. The case of this patient is not unusual. Many people believe that any toothpaste can be used for a long time as long as it is to clean the teeth. They don't understand the ingredients of toothpaste and the effects of toothpaste on oral health. As a result, I often need to take the time to explain why changing my toothpaste regularly can help improve and maintain oral health.
Why should you consider changing your toothpaste regularly?
Reduced adaptabilityLong-term use of the same brand or type of toothpaste, the oral environment may gradually adapt to its ingredients, so that the original effect is gradually weakened. For example, the antimicrobial ingredients in some toothpastes may initially have a noticeable effect on reducing plaque and periodontal disease, but over time, this effect may decrease. Changing needs and people's oral health are constantly changing. For example, whitening may be more focused when you are younger, and you may need more gum protection or anti-sensitivity protection when you are older. Oral needs vary from stage to stage of life, and the choice of toothpaste should be adjusted accordingly. In addition to the functional factors, taste and feeling of use are also reasons to consider changing toothpaste. With new products and flavours on the market all the time, trying new products can make everyday brushing more enjoyable and you may also find something that works better for you.
Antimicrobial resistance issues
Although not as obvious as antibiotics, long-term use of toothpastes containing specific antimicrobial ingredients can also lead to the development of resistance to some bacteria in the mouth. This is uncommon, but changing toothpaste can be a preventative measure to avoid potential resistance issues. In conclusion, changing toothpaste regularly can not only meet the diverse needs of oral health, but also improve the effectiveness and experience of daily oral care. Considering the different oral health needs and the continuous introduction of new products, it is a simple and effective way to maintain oral health by adjusting the type of toothpaste used.
How to choose toothpaste according to your needs
Anti-allergy toothpasteIf you often experience tooth soreness or are sensitive to hot and cold foods, you may need to use an anti-allergy toothpaste. These toothpastes contain potassium and nitrates, which are effective in blocking tiny channels that cause tooth sensitivity. Whitening toothpaste is a good choice for people who want to improve the yellow color of their teeth and want a brighter smile. Whitening toothpastes often contain mild abrasives or bleach to help remove stains from the surface of your teeth. Anti-cavity toothpasteAnti-cavity toothpaste is rich in fluoride, which can enhance the acid resistance of teeth and help prevent tooth decay. It is suitable for people of all ages, especially those who are prone to dental caries.
Total care toothpaste
If you don't have a specific oral problem, or want one toothpaste to solve multiple problems, a comprehensive care toothpaste is ideal. This type of toothpaste combines a variety of functions such as anti-cavities, anti-allergies, whitening, etc., and is suitable for daily use. Herbal toothpastePeople who prefer natural care methods may be more inclined to use herbal toothpastes that contain natural ingredients such as peppermint and tea tree oil. This type of toothpaste is not only effective in cleaning teeth, but also has a natural antibacterial effect. When choosing a toothpaste, be sure to check the product label to see if it contains the right ingredients for your needs. Also, avoid using toothpastes that contain irritating or harmful ingredients such as triclosan, etc., to ensure oral health. Finally, don't forget to consult your dentist regularly for more professional advice.
The correct way to use toothpaste
Choose the right toothbrush and toothpasteUse a toothbrush that meets your oral conditions, such as a soft-bristled toothbrush for sensitive gums and a hard-bristled toothbrush for removing heavy dirt from the tooth surface. Choose the toothpaste that suits your needs according to the previous categories. Squeeze the toothpaste correctly and squeeze out a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. Using too much toothpaste is not only wasteful, but it also doesn't add to the cleaning effect. The correct brushing position aligns the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the teeth, which helps the brush head to penetrate deep below the gum line to remove dirt and dirt. Brush your teeth gently from the gums to the tips of your teeth, avoiding a stiff horizontal brush, which will protect your gums and prevent enamel from wearing. It is recommended to brush your teeth for at least 2 minutes each time to ensure that all teeth are evenly cleaned.
How often and when to brush your teeth
Brush your teeth at least twice a day, especially once in the morning and once in the evening, as saliva production decreases at night and bacteria are more likely to multiply. It is best to rinse your mouth with water after each meal to reduce the retention time of food debris in your mouth. Post-brushing treatment: Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water after brushing, then floss or an interdental brush to clean between your teeth, and finally use a fluoride mouthwash to enhance your dental protection. With the correct execution of the above steps, not only can the teeth be effectively cleaned, but also the occurrence of gingivitis and periodontal disease can be prevented, thereby maintaining overall oral health. The right way to use toothpaste, along with regular dental check-ups, will greatly improve your oral health.