There are many varieties of toothpaste on store shelves these days, but how do you choose the right one for you? Not every toothpaste is right for everyone. Once you take into account your personal oral health, choosing a toothpaste is easy. Read on to learn about the benefits of different types of toothpaste to discover which one is best for your teeth.

1. Fluoride Toothpaste

According to Riverton, Utah dental, Fluoride toothpaste contains a natural mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and therefore prevents tooth decay and cavities. Everyone can benefit from a toothpaste containing fluoride, but older adults and people who regularly drink acidic beverages like coffee, tea, and juice will especially appreciate the remineralization effects.

2. Tartar Control Toothpaste

Plaque, the layer of bacteria that builds up on teeth, can harden into tartar if not brushed away. This can lead to gum disease over time. If you don’t have time to brush after every meal, consider a tartar control toothpaste to reduce your risks.

3. Sensitivity Toothpaste

If your teeth are sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods, you know the intense pain and discomfort that even an everyday meal can cause. Luckily, there are many toothpastes on the market now that help with tooth sensitivity. They work by blocking the pathways from your teeth to the nerves in your mouth so that you can no longer feel the pain. One word of caution: while these toothpastes work great for sensitive teeth, they could take as long as a few weeks to really take an effect.

4. Whitening Toothpastes

Whitening toothpastes contain tiny particles or chemical agents that scrub plaque off the surface of your teeth. This also helps remove stains and yellowing. According to most dentists, these polishing ingredients are no harsher on teeth than regular brushing methods, so no need to worry about your enamel.

5. Gum Protection Toothpastes

While some people suffer from cavities, others are more prone to gum disease. If your gums are red or bleed when you brush, try an anti-gingivitis toothpaste. They help reduce the amount of bacteria in your mouth and can stop or even reverse mild forms of gum disease.

6. Natural Toothpastes

As long as they are ADA approved, natural toothpastes are often just as effective as regular varieties. These are perfect if you are concerned about the environment or if you worry about brushing your teeth with a product that contains a bunch of ingredients you cannot pronounce.

The list above contains the basic types of toothpaste on the market, but there are many different brands and varieties of each. You can find loads of flavors from cinnamon to fruit to different types of mint. Toothpastes also often do more than one thing and even come in “total oral care” varieties. It all depends on what benefits you are looking for and what oral health problems you suffer from or want to prevent.