Toothpastes containing Baking soda, Charcoal or artificial sweeteners all get my thumbs down. Baking Soda may have been used by our ancestors before the availability of commercial toothpastes but it has too much Sodium (Sodium Bicarbonate) and is too abrasive. Charcoal is also too abrasive and has systemic effects if too much is ingested.

Sensodyne and other De-Sensitizing toothpastes. These will work if used correctly in the correct situation. The tooth has a crystal-like structure with “pores” that can be seen when magnified by an electron microscope. These toothpastes fill and block these pores and thereby insulate against sensitivity. Often, it will take weeks of regular use before relief is felt. It will not help with cavities, fractures, or cracks in restorations. Additionally, you must use it 100%, because the application of other toothpastes, mouth rinses or certain citrus/carbonated beverages will remove this residual microscopic coating. In some patients, I have them brush with it and then apply it as an ointment.

Dental Floss – There are many choices. (Thick, thin, fuzzy, rayon, nylon, gor-tex, fiber, flavored, unflavored, medicated, plan, waxed, unwaxed) There are also floss “fingers” or y shaded tools to help get the floss between the teeth. It’s okay to try different types until you find what works best for you, or just ask the dentist.

Homeopathic or natural toothpastes and remedies:
My grandma’s advice to rinse with a warm salt water mix is repeated to some of my patients in particular situations. There are just too many products to review generally. Some are useful and others are very worrisome.

Dr. Alan Ross, Keene Family Dental, 67 Mechanic Street, Keene, NH 03431 Phone: 603-357-6767