From the Guidelines
The best toothpaste for preventing dental caries is one containing 1,500 ppm fluoride, as it has been reported to be slightly more efficacious in reducing dental caries in U.S. and European studies. When choosing a toothpaste, consider the fluoride concentration, as it is the most important ingredient for strengthening tooth enamel and preventing decay 1. Key characteristics of an effective toothpaste include:
- Fluoride concentration of 1,500 ppm for optimal caries prevention
- Availability of products with this concentration, although they may not be widely marketed in all areas
- Potential benefits for persons aged >6 years at high risk for dental caries While specific brands like Colgate, Crest, Sensodyne, or Tom's of Maine may be effective options, the primary consideration should be the fluoride concentration, rather than the brand name. Additionally, features like the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance on packaging can indicate that the toothpaste has been tested and proven effective. For individualized recommendations, consult with a dentist to determine the best toothpaste tailored to your specific oral health needs.
From the Research
Toothpaste Ingredients and Effectiveness
- The most important therapeutic substance used in toothpastes is fluoride, which adds to the effect of mechanical toothbrushing on dental caries control 2.
- Fluoride toothpaste reduces caries increment when compared with non-fluoride toothpaste, with higher concentrations associated with increased caries control 3.
- Triclosan/copolymer and stannous fluoride are other therapeutic substances used in toothpastes, which reduce dental biofilm, gingivitis, periodontitis, calculus, and halitosis 2, 4.
Concentration of Fluoride in Toothpaste
- A minimum of 1000 ppm F is recommended for fluoride toothpaste to reduce caries in children and adults 2.
- Higher concentrations of fluoride (1450 to 1500 ppm) may slightly reduce caries increments when compared to lower concentrations (1000 to 1250 ppm) 3.
- Toothpastes with 5,000 ppm F are favorable for preventing root caries 5.
Dentin Hypersensitivity and Toothpaste
- Fluoride toothpaste shows a fair effect on sensitive teeth when combined with dentin fluid-obstructing agents such as different metal ions, potassium, and oxalates 5, 6.
- A toothpaste containing 8% arginine, calcium carbonate, and 1450 ppm fluoride offers significantly increased efficacy in reducing sensitivity, compared to a market-leading toothpaste containing 2% potassium ion 6.
- A toothpaste containing 0.454% stannous fluoride effectively occludes dentinal tubules and provides a significant reduction in dentinal hypersensitivity after 8 weeks of product use 4.
Brand/Type of Toothpaste
- There is no specific brand or type of toothpaste recommended in the provided studies, as the focus is on the ingredients and concentrations of fluoride and other therapeutic substances.