Expensive toothpaste is better

Okay, so I’ve been using Crest my whole life. You know, the classic. It’s… fine. But I keep seeing ads and reading articles about these fancy toothpastes that cost like, $20, $30, even $50 a tube! Things like Boka, Apa Beauty, or even some of the "natural" ones like Davids.

I guess my question is, are they actually better? Like, tangibly better? Is there a real difference in whitening power, enamel strengthening, or even just overall gum health? I’m willing to spend the money if it’s a significant upgrade, but I don’t want to get sucked into just good marketing.

I have pretty normal teeth, I think. I brush twice a day, sometimes floss, but I could be better about that. I drink coffee and the occasional red wine, so stain prevention is definitely a plus. I don’t have sensitive teeth, but I do worry about enamel erosion. Has anyone actually tried these expensive toothpastes and noticed a real difference compared to regular drugstore brands? And if so, which ones would you recommend, and why? I need specifics!

Answer

Expensive toothpaste is not necessarily better than less expensive toothpaste. The effectiveness of toothpaste hinges primarily on its core ingredients and their concentrations, rather than solely on its price tag. Here’s a breakdown of why price isn’t the definitive indicator of quality:

Key Ingredients and Their Roles:

• Fluoride: Fluoride is the most crucial ingredient in toothpaste. It strengthens tooth enamel, making it more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria and sugars in the mouth. This process, known as remineralization, helps prevent cavities. Both expensive and inexpensive toothpastes typically contain fluoride, usually in the form of sodium fluoride or stannous fluoride. The concentration of fluoride is what matters most. Most toothpastes contain around 1350-1500 ppm (parts per million) of fluoride. Any toothpaste with this amount is effective, regardless of price. The American Dental Association (ADA) and similar organizations in other countries provide a seal of acceptance for toothpastes that meet specific safety and efficacy standards, including fluoride content.

• Abrasives: Abrasives help remove surface stains, plaque, and debris from the teeth. Common abrasives include hydrated silica, calcium carbonate, and dicalcium phosphate. The abrasiveness of a toothpaste is measured by its RDA (Relative Dentin Abrasivity) value. Too much abrasiveness can damage enamel over time, while too little may not effectively clean the teeth. Both expensive and inexpensive toothpastes contain abrasives, and the effectiveness depends on the type and concentration used.

• Detergents: Detergents, such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), create a foaming action that helps distribute the toothpaste throughout the mouth and loosen debris. Some people are sensitive to SLS and may experience irritation or canker sores. SLS is commonly found in both expensive and inexpensive toothpastes. Alternatives like cocamidopropyl betaine are available, and some toothpastes marketed as "sensitive" or "natural" may use these alternatives.

• Humectants: Humectants, such as glycerin, sorbitol, and xylitol, prevent the toothpaste from drying out. These are standard ingredients in most toothpastes, regardless of price. Xylitol also has the added benefit of inhibiting the growth of Streptococcus mutans, the bacteria primarily responsible for tooth decay.

• Flavoring Agents: Flavoring agents improve the taste of toothpaste and encourage regular use. Common flavoring agents include mint, cinnamon, and fruit extracts. These are typically used in both expensive and inexpensive toothpastes.

• Thickeners: Thickeners, such as cellulose gum and xanthan gum, give the toothpaste its texture.

Why Price Doesn’t Guarantee Better Performance:

• Marketing and Branding: A significant portion of the price of expensive toothpaste goes towards marketing, advertising, and branding. Companies may invest heavily in creating a premium image, which doesn’t necessarily translate to superior cleaning or cavity prevention.

• Novel Ingredients (with Limited Evidence): Some expensive toothpastes contain novel ingredients marketed for specific benefits, such as whitening, sensitivity relief, or gum health. While some of these ingredients may have some efficacy, the scientific evidence supporting their superiority over standard ingredients is often limited or inconclusive. The effectiveness is also dependent on the concentration and formulation.

• Formulation Differences: Differences in formulation might exist, such as slightly different abrasive types or the inclusion of specific polymers. However, the core function of cavity prevention remains largely dependent on fluoride concentration.

• Subjective Preferences: Some people may prefer the taste, texture, or feel of more expensive toothpastes. These are subjective preferences and do not necessarily indicate better oral health outcomes.

When Expensive Toothpaste Might Be Justified:

• Specific Needs: If you have specific oral health needs, such as severe sensitivity, a history of extensive dental work, or a strong preference for natural ingredients, a more expensive toothpaste formulated to address these concerns may be worth considering. For example, a toothpaste with a very low RDA value might be recommended for someone with thin enamel.

• Professional Recommendation: If your dentist recommends a specific toothpaste based on your individual needs, it’s important to follow their advice.

Conclusion:

Focus on the ingredients and their concentrations, particularly fluoride, and look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance (or equivalent) to ensure the toothpaste has been tested for safety and efficacy. A less expensive toothpaste with the right ingredients can be just as effective as a more expensive one in preventing cavities and maintaining good oral hygiene.