Which tootpaste for which need?

Toothpaste is a powerful tool for oral hygiene. Its ingredients, its active components and its use directly influence the health of your teeth and gums. Understanding the purpose of the different formulas means you can adopt a more effective, better-targeted daily care routine.

Tooth decay: enemy number one

Cavities remain the most common dental disease. Here are some of the causes: sugars, bacteria, and weakened enamel. Fluoride is an important ally in preventing cavities. Found in the majority of “anti-cavity” toothpastes, it strengthens enamel and encourages remineralisation, provided that it is present in sufficient quantities. Toothpaste containing 1,450 ppm* of fluoride is now the standard for adults, while for children up to the age of 6, it should not exceed 1,000 ppm. If in doubt, talk to your dentist; they will be able to tell you which fluoride concentration is best suited to your needs and personal situation.

When your teeth turn hypersensitive

A sip of cold water, a spoonful of ice… and the pain strikes. Nearly one in three adults suffers from sensitive teeth. It occurs when the dentine beneath the enamel becomes exposed. So-called “desensitising” toothpastes act like a shield: their active ingredients (potassium nitrate, strontium chloride) gradually block the channels responsible for transmitting pain. The results are not immediate but develop with regular use.

Bleeding gums: a warning sign

Gums that turn red or sensitive, or bleed when brushed, should never be ignored. These signs most often indicate inflammation, linked to the accumulation of dental plaque at the necks of the teeth. If left untreated, this irritation can develop into gingivitis and cause even greater damage to the supporting tissues. Specific “gum” toothpastes target the bacteria responsible while protecting already weakened tissues. They contain antibacterial active ingredients such as tin fluoride and cetylpyridinium chloride. But be careful: no formula can compensate for overly vigorous or improper brushing. Gentle brushing with a soft brush is essential to keeping gums healthy.

Tartar: when plaque hardens

Tartar is the result of dental plaque mineralising and turning into hard deposits on the teeth. Though invisible at first, it can gradually spread, particularly in areas that are difficult to reach with a brush. Once it has formed, it can only be removed with professional scaling. “Anti‑tartar” toothpastes play a preventive role: they slow down the mineralisation of plaque and limit the build‑up of these deposits. They contain active ingredients such as pyrophosphates, zinc, or sometimes zinc citrate. If used regularly, they help keep teeth cleaner and gums healthier, while complementing careful brushing and flossing.

Whiteness: aesthetics above all.

Coffee, tea, tobacco… over time, teeth can become discoloured. Whitening toothpastes promise a brighter smile, but without altering the natural colour of the teeth. They contain mild abrasive agents such as hydrated silica or calcium carbonate, which polish the enamel, as well as chemical active ingredients such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide in low concentrations. Moderate use is recommended: some products are too abrasive, and can weaken the enamel or irritate the gums.

Acidity and erosion: teeth under pressure

Sodas, fruit juices, frequent snacking… acid erosion progresses quietly. It attacks the enamel, making it thinner and more vulnerable. Some toothpaste formulas are specifically designed to protect teeth exposed to this risk, with remineralising agents and a suitable pH level. However, it is important to remember that one of the best allies for your oral health is a healthy, balanced diet.

The right toothpaste is essential, but also:

However targeted, toothpaste isn’t everything. Brushing twice a day for two minutes, daily use of dental floss or interdental brushes, and regular visits to the dentist remain essential. Toothpaste is a tool, but it is consistent habits that make the difference.

Composition, a criterion to be examined closely

Reading a toothpaste label is not wasted effort. Foaming agents, such as sodium lauryl sulphate, can irritate the mucous membranes, promote mouth ulcers and aggravate dry mouth. Other substances, such as titanium dioxide, used to whiten toothpaste, or certain antibacterial agents, have been assessed for their possible long-term effects. Titanium dioxide in particular has been classified as carcinogenic. Antibacterial agents are monitored for their cumulative long-term effects.

Choosing your toothpaste should not be left to chance, nor based on enticing marketing promises. The key is to identify the problem, adopt the right product and use it properly.

*ppm: parts per million. Represents the amount of fluoride found in toothpaste.