Smart Shopping: Which Dental Ingredients to Avoid

Are you struggling to decide what kinds of products you should be buying when you go to the store?

Are you worried that the products you invest in could actually be doing more harm than good?

You’re not alone! Deciding what products to buy for you and your family can be stressful. At Dr. DiStefano’s office, the premier family dentist in Howell, Michigan, we want to help educate you on what types of dental products you should avoid based on their ingredients.

• Buy products that are approved by the ADA: When shopping for dental products, make sure you look for the ADA seal of approval on the packaging. Products that aren’t approved by the ADA could be harmful to your teeth and gums.
• Avoid products that contain sodium lauryl sulfate. The American College of Toxicology says that this ingredient can cause irritation and canker sores.
• Avoid aspartame. You might be familiar with this artificial sweetener in foods, but it can also be found in some toothpastes. 

Talk to your dentist to find out what types of toothpaste, mouthwash, and types of floss are best for your needs. Your family dentist in Howell, Michigan might recommend that you stay away from certain products that could cause you more discomfort.

Looking For More?

If you’d like more information, visit our website, or call us today to speak with a member of our team! Dr. DiStefano’s office is the premier family dentist in Howell, Michigan and takes great pride in serving the community. Contact us today to find out how we can help you!

Ultimate Toothpaste Guide

You visit your dentist every six months on schedule, and take good care of your teeth in between.

You floss, and brush twice a day, and make sure you never skip a day of your dental routine.

Are you sure you’re doing everything you can to take great care of your teeth in between checkups? Did you know that the type of toothpaste you’re using could be the difference between a bad checkup and a great checkup with your dentist?

At Dr. DiStefano’s office, we want to help you take great care of your teeth in between checkups and save you time at the store. Take a look at some of the different categories of toothpaste listed below to figure out what kind will work best for you!

Different Types Of Toothpaste:

• Whitening Toothpaste: Almost every brand you’re familiar with offers a different type of whitening toothpaste. Be careful when you purchase this type – some products contain harsh materials to scrub away surface stains! Whitening toothpaste can cause sensitivity and is not recommended for people under the age of 18. If you want to whiten your teeth with toothpaste, talk to your family dentist in Howell, Michigan for safer, cheaper options!
• Sensitivity Toothpaste: Some people experience discomfort when drinking hot or cold foods. If you have this problem, consider getting toothpaste that’s made for sensitivity! This specially formulated toothpaste is less abrasive than regular toothpastes.
• Children’s Toothpaste: Many brands make toothpastes especially for kids that are specially formulated. These toothpastes can be swallowed (just in case your child accidentally swallows while brushing) and comes in kid-friendly flavors that contain less fluoride.
• Tartar Control: This type of toothpaste contains ingredients that work to break down plaque that has already formed on the teeth before it hardens. This toothpaste can be used as a preventative measure for people who are prone to developing tartar.

If you still have questions about what type of toothpaste you should be using, contact your family dentist in Howell, Michigan!

Let us know during your next checkup. We may be able to give you a sample of specialty toothpaste, or suggest which type would best suit your needs.