Maintaining a bright, healthy smile doesn’t start and end at the dental clinic—it begins with the choices you make in your bathroom every day. At Jacksonport Dental Clinic, we often get asked: “Which toothbrush should I use?” or “Is this toothpaste okay for sensitive teeth?”—and rightfully so! With so many options on the market, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
So let me break it down for you—as your family dentist here in NE Calgary, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the right choices for your oral health.
Choosing the Right Toothbrush: Manual vs. Electric
- Manual Toothbrush
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- Good option for people who already brush thoroughly.
- Look for soft bristles—they clean effectively without damaging gums or enamel.
- Replace it every 3–4 months (or sooner if the bristles are frayed).
- Electric Toothbrush
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- Highly recommended for those with limited dexterity, braces, or inconsistent brushing habits.
- Studies show it removes more plaque than manual toothbrushes.
- Choose a brush with a timer and pressure sensor to avoid overbrushing.
Dr. Richa’s Tip: “If you have arthritis or kids who rush through brushing, an electric toothbrush makes a huge difference in getting that deep clean.”
What to Look for in a Toothbrush (Regardless of Type)
- Soft bristles only—hard bristles can cause gum recession.
- Comfortable grip—you’re more likely to use it properly.
- Small head—helps you reach all areas of your mouth.
Choosing the Right Toothpaste: Focus on Ingredients First
Let’s bust a myth: the best toothpaste isn’t always the most expensive or the fanciest—it’s the one that addresses your specific oral health needs.
1. For Cavity Protection Look for fluoride in the ingredient list. This helps strengthen tooth enamel and fight off decay.
- Examples: Colgate Cavity Protection, Crest Cavity Protection (available at Shoppers Drug Mart or Walmart Canada).
2. For Sensitive Teeth Choose toothpaste with potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride. These ingredients block pain signals from reaching the nerve.
- Examples: Sensodyne Repair & Protect, Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief, Pronamel by Sensodyne.
3. For Gum Care Look for antibacterial ingredients like stannous fluoride to reduce plaque and inflammation.
- Examples: Parodontax, Crest Gum Detoxify, Oral-B Gum Care.
4. For Whitening Choose options with gentle abrasives like hydrated silica.
- Examples: Crest 3D White, Sensodyne True White—safe for everyday use, especially if enamel-safe is mentioned.
Dr. Richa’s Tip: “If you use whitening toothpaste, limit it to once daily and alternate with a fluoride toothpaste. Whitening formulas can be abrasive if overused.”
Natural vs. Traditional Toothpaste
Natural options can be great—but make sure they still contain fluoride. Some brands skip this essential ingredient, leaving you vulnerable to cavities.
- Canadian examples: Tom’s of Maine Fluoride Toothpaste, Hello Fluoride Toothpaste (check availability locally).
For Children
- Use a fluoride toothpaste, but only a pea-sized amount.
- Look for fun flavours and child-friendly branding (e.g., Colgate Kids, Orajel Paw Patrol).
- Supervise brushing until around age 7–8.
Ingredients to Avoid (in most cases):
- Triclosan (banned in many regions)
- Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)—can cause mouth ulcers in sensitive individuals
- Charcoal toothpaste—often too abrasive for daily use
Dr. Richa’s Insight: “Always read the ingredient list. If you’re not sure whether a product is safe or right for you, bring it to your next visit—we’ll review it together!”
Still Confused? Ask During Your Visit!
At Jacksonport Dental Clinic, we’re more than happy to guide you through choosing the right oral care products based on your needs. Whether you’re battling sensitivity, want to prevent gum disease, or just need a product safe for your child—we’ve got you.
📍 Visit us at: 124-3730, 104 Ave NE, Calgary, AB T3N 0T1
📞 Call: +1 403-815-3040
🌐 Book Online: www.jacksonportdental.ca
We’re open 7 days a week—including Sundays—so there’s always a good time to come by.
Final Word from Dr. Richa: “Small choices lead to big smiles. Picking the right toothbrush and toothpaste might seem minor, but it can make a major difference in your oral health over time. Don’t underestimate it—and don’t hesitate to ask for advice!”
