Anti-Tartar Toothpastes

There are lots of dental products available at your local grocer or drug store. It’s tough to pick the one that’s right for you.  In an effort to keep gum disease at bay, many manufacturers have researched and developed anti-plaque, anti-tartar home care products and some even advertise these to be the be-all and end-all for the prevention of periodontal disease.  Crest and Colgate are two that have garnered quite a bit of attention.  But are you guaranteed healthy gum tissue if you brush with Crest Tartar Control toothpaste every day?  Crest, Colgate, and other major brands have added soluble pyrophosphates, a substance that seems to slow the accumulation of tartar.  So they may be worth a try.  But some research allows that brushing with no toothpaste at all can outdo the anti-plaque brands – if you’re brushing the right way!  The whole idea is to mechanically disrupt the bacteria colonizing on your teeth, bacteria that regroup every 24 hours.  That is to say, brush your teeth at least once every 24 hours.  But good toothbrushing technique is not something you’re born with.  It takes some practice.  And even if you’re doing it right, you’ll still need professional cleanings by your hygienist to clear out debris beneath the gumline where your tooth brush just doesn’t reach.  The next time your in our office, ask for a refresher course on how to best care for your teeth at home.