It seems like new trends in health and beauty inundate online marketing and social media advertising, but it is tough to know which are reliable and which could actually harm your teeth. Many articles and advertising can appear legitimate but are really advertising a product with the sole intention of making a profit off of your smile.
If you want a dentist in Encinitas, CA who will demystify the mythology around oral health advertising and recommend products that will actually help you maintain a healthy smile, Scott M. Jordan, DDS, will always give you the straight news.
Marketers of charcoal toothpaste claim that charcoal whitens the smile and improves oral health. Little scientific evidence exists to back up this claim.
Rely on Science, Not Rumors
A recent study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association gives us answers about charcoal toothpaste.
Charcoal Toothpaste Is Unpredictable
Many of the results depend upon whether the charcoal toothpaste contains fluoride. One study resulted in no adverse side effects of charcoal toothpaste use, while two others reported the additional increased risk of caries (dental decay) and enamel abrasion.
What You Should Use
According to the American Dental Association, both children and adults should use fluoride toothpaste. Children should use a pea-sized amount, or even a small smear, to avoid swallowing until they get it right.
Toothpaste comes in a variety of flavors, but it’s really not about flavor, which is a personal preference. It should be nonabrasive, so using a whitening toothpaste on a regular basis might not be beneficial. Many of them contain rough substances designed to remove surface stains.
Children care more about toothpaste flavors, and marketing companies have taken notice. You can find berry, grape, mint, orange, and bubblegum to name a few. A fun toothbrush featuring your kid's favorite television character can help motivate them.
If you do not yet have a dentist in Encinitas, CA, we invite you to come in and meet the team. We believe you will find our staff at Scott M. Jordan, DDS, to be professional and friendly with both adults and children.