Choosing the right toothpaste for your smile.
Walk down any toothpaste aisle and you’ll find dozens of options: whitening, sensitivity relief, enamel repair, charcoal, fluoride-free, natural, kids’ formulas — it’s no wonder many people ask,
“Which toothpaste should I actually be using?”
The truth is, the best toothpaste for you depends on your oral health needs, not just the label. Here’s how to make the right choice — and what to look for (or avoid).
✅ What to Look for in a Toothpaste
No matter your age or dental history, most people benefit from using a toothpaste that includes the following:
- ✔️ Fluoride
This mineral strengthens enamel and helps prevent cavities. It’s especially important for children, adults prone to decay, and those with early signs of enamel wear.In Canada, the Canadian Dental Association (CDA) recommends fluoride toothpaste for all ages (starting with a rice-sized amount for babies and toddlers).
- ✔️ CDA Seal of Recognition
This seal means the product has been reviewed and approved by the Canadian Dental Association for safety and effectiveness. - ✔️ Your Dentist’s Input
Some people need toothpaste for specific conditions (like sensitivity, gum disease, or dry mouth). Your dentist or hygienist can help you choose the best one for your mouth.
🧪 Choosing Toothpaste Based on Your Needs
- 😬 For Sensitive Teeth
Look for: Toothpaste containing potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride
Popular options: Sensodyne, Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief
Helps reduce pain from hot, cold, or sweet foods by blocking nerve signals - 🦠 For Gum Health
Look for: Antibacterial ingredients like stannous fluoride
Popular options: Parodontax, Crest Gum Detoxify
Helps reduce bleeding, inflammation, and plaque buildup at the gumline - 🦷 For Cavity Prevention
Look for: Fluoride toothpaste with 1,000 ppm or more of fluoride
Most mainstream toothpaste brands (like Colgate, Crest, and Oral-B) offer effective fluoride protection.
Note: Kids under age 6 should use a children’s formula with lower fluoride, as recommended by your dentist. - 🌟 For Whitening
Look for: Toothpaste with gentle abrasives or peroxide
Best for: Removing surface stains (not changing the natural colour of your teeth)
Avoid: Whitening pastes that feel gritty or claim “charcoal” — they may wear down enamel - 😮💨 For Bad Breath
Look for: Toothpaste with zinc, triclosan (in some brands), or stannous fluoride
Helps neutralize odour-causing bacteria.
Pair with brushing your tongue and flossing for best results. - 🧴 For Dry Mouth
Look for: Toothpaste labelled “SLS-free” and formulated for dry mouth
Popular options: Biotène, Colgate Hydris
Avoid: Toothpaste with sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), which can irritate dry or sensitive tissues
⚠️ Toothpaste Ingredients to Be Cautious Of
- Charcoal: May be abrasive and wear down enamel
- SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate): Can cause irritation or mouth ulcers in some people
- Natural or fluoride-free toothpastes: May feel appealing, but lack the cavity-fighting power of fluoride
Always check with your dentist before switching to a non-fluoride product — especially for children or cavity-prone adults.
Final Thoughts
The best toothpaste is the one that supports your unique oral health needs and helps you brush effectively twice a day. If you’re unsure what to choose, bring your current toothpaste to your next visit — we’re happy to review it with you!
Need help picking the right toothpaste or managing an oral health concern? Book a visit today — our team is here to help you find the best tools to care for your smile.