A Guide to Toothpaste ADA Approved

Are you tired of sifting through countless types of toothpaste, only to be unsure which is the best choice for oral health? 

If you're looking for toothpaste that is effective and backed by scientific research and approval, look no further than ADA-approved toothpaste. 

In this guide, we'll take a deep dive into everything you need to know about toothpaste that’s ADA-approved, including:

• What ADA approval is and why it matters
• How to identify an ADA-approved toothpaste brand
• Primary ingredients in an ADA-approved toothpaste
• Choosing toothpaste for your preferences & needs: whitening, teeth sensitivity, tartar control, organic, kids
• FAQs
• Our top picks for ADA-approved toothpaste on the market today

Whether you're a toothpaste novice or a seasoned pro, this guide has everything you need to know about choosing the right toothpaste for you –let's get started!

What Is ADA Approval and Why Does It Matter?

The American Dental Association (ADA) is a professional organization that sets high standards for oral healthcare products. To gain ADA approval, kinds of toothpaste must have met specific safety and efficiency standards to be certified by the organization. 

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Not all toothpaste brands have done this process, so if you are looking for the safest and most effective option, an ADA-approved toothpaste is your best bet. 

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As well as providing assurance of the effectiveness and safety of a product, ADA approval also ensures that a certain level of quality has been achieved, meaning that you can trust that the product will do what it promises.

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How to Identify an ADA Approved Toothpaste Brand

To identify an ADA-approved toothpaste, look for a logo with the ADA's Seal of Acceptance on the packaging. 

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This logo shows that the toothpaste meets the organization's standards for safety and effectiveness. All ADA-approved toothpaste must be re-evaluated every three years to maintain approval.

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You can also find out more information about ADA-approved products by visiting its website at MouthHealthy.org, where you can search for products that have been given the seal of acceptance. It is important to only buy ADA-approved toothpaste to ensure that your oral hygiene routine is as safe and effective as possible.

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Ingredients in ADA-Approved Toothpaste

Several ingredients are commonly found in ADA-approved toothpaste. Here are the major ones:

_{Fluoride Toothpaste}

_{This is the most critical ingredient in ADA-approved toothpaste. Fluoride helps strengthen and protect teeth from decay and cavities.}

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_Abrasives 

_{These tiny particles help remove plaque and stains from the surface of teeth. Common abrasives include calcium carbonate, silica, and baking soda.}

_Humectants

_{These ingredients help to keep the toothpaste from drying out and hardening. Common humectants include glycerin and sorbitol.}

_Binders

_{These ingredients help to hold the toothpaste together and keep it from separating. Typical binders include cellulose gum and carrageenan.}

_Detergents

_{These ingredients help to create foam and spread the toothpaste evenly in the mouth. Common detergents include sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES).}

_{No Sugar Allowed}

_{Toothpaste that is ADA-approved must not contain artificial sweeteners or other fake sugars, which can harm oral health.}

It's important to note that the specific ingredients and their amounts can vary depending on the brand and type of toothpaste.

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Choosing the Right Toothpaste for Your Oral Health

Beyond using toothpaste with the ADA seal, choose the toothpaste you will use daily based on your priorities and preferences.

_{Whiter Teeth}

_{Whiter teeth can help boost your confidence while giving you a beautiful smile. There are many whitening toothpastes on the market today.} 

_{Although many people assume bleach is the main ingredient, whitening toothpaste actually contains abrasives or chemicals that polish teeth and pull stains off the surface.}

_{TIP: Look for carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide as effective whitening agents.}

_{Tartar Control}

_{Controlling tartar is foundational to proper oral hygiene. We all have a layer of bacteria on our teeth called plaque, which can become tartar without consistent dental care.} 

_{Tartar buildup may ultimately lead to gum disease. Chemicals like pyrophosphates, zinc citrate, and a bacteria-killing antibiotic called triclosan are proven tartar fighters.}

_{Be aware that tartar control toothpaste may create sensitivity for some. If it does not cause sensitivity and you tend to have extra tartar buildup, tartar control toothpaste is a good solution.}

_{TIP: Toothpaste with more than one plaque-fighting ingredient are most helpful. Tartar can only be removed with professional dental cleaning, so be sure you get regular dental cleanings with your dentist twice a year.so make sure you’re getting regular dental cleanings with your dentist twice a year.}

_{Sensitive Teeth}

_{Do not allow sensitive teeth to cause you to brush less often.} 

_{If your teeth are sensitive to heat or cold or have sensitive gums, look for toothpaste with potassium nitrate or strontium chloride.}

_{TIP: Using toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth reduces tooth sensitivity over time.}

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_{Great Taste}

_{You can have it all – healthy toothpaste that also tastes great.} 

_{Artificial flavoring has been added to toothpaste today to make brushing enjoyable while removing every excuse we might invent to skip this essential habit. Mint, lemon-lime, cinnamon, and other flavors are on the market for adults.}  

_{All Natural Ingredients}

_{All-natural toothpaste is available without chemicals if you prefer a more organic lifestyle. Please make sure your choice has the ADA seal of approval.}

_{Toothpaste for Kids}

_{Many kid-friendly flavors and colors have been created to help kids enjoy developing great oral hygiene habits for life. When choosing toothpaste for your child, consider allowing them to choose it.} 

_{Giving your child a choice will naturally increase their motivation to brush and care for their teeth.}

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FAQs About ADA Toothpaste

_{Are all kinds of toothpaste ADA accepted?} 

_{Not all toothpastes are ADA accepted. To ensure you have chosen an ADA-approved toothpaste, check that it has the official seal on the packaging.} 

_{This seal certifies that the toothpaste meets accepted levels of safety and effectiveness for teeth cleaning and protection. Additionally, many ADA-approved toothpastes will list "ADA Accepted" or "The American Dental Association (ADA) Accepts" on the package as well.}

_{Kinds of toothpaste need to be tested every three years to maintain their ADA approval –it's important to double-check the packaging of any toothpaste you are using.}

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_{Are all toothpastes at the grocery store ADA approved?}

_{No, not all toothpastes at the grocery store are ADA-approved. To ensure that toothpaste is ADA-approved, look for the official seal on the packaging.}

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_{Is Crest ADA-Approved?}

_{Yes, Crest is an ADA-approved toothpaste.} 

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Top Picks for Toothpaste ADA Approved on the Market Today

Below we round up our top ADA-approved toothpaste picks by category: whitening, tartar control, sensitive teeth, all-natural, and top picks for kids.

_{Top Whitening Toothpaste Picks}

_{Crest 3D White Brilliance Toothpaste}

_{This toothpaste is formulated with a patented dual-action silica system that helps to remove surface stains and whiten teeth. It also contains fluoride to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities. The refreshing mint flavor leaves your mouth feeling clean and fresh.}

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_{Colgate Optic White High Impact White Toothpaste}

_{Formulated with 2% hydrogen peroxide, this toothpaste effectively whitens teeth by breaking down surface stains. It's also enamel-safe and contains fluoride to protect against cavities. In addition, the refreshing mint flavor gives you a long-lasting fresh breath.}

_{Arm & Hammer Advance White Extreme Whitening Toothpaste}

_{This toothpaste uses baking soda as its primary whitening agent, gently removing surface stains without damaging tooth enamel. It also contains fluoride to protect against cavities and a refreshing mint flavor to keep your mouth fresh.}

_{Top Picks for Tartar Control}

_{Crest Tartar Protection Toothpaste}

_{This toothpaste is specially formulated to help prevent tartar buildup, which can lead to gum disease and tooth decay. It contains fluoride to strengthen tooth enamel and protect against cavities. It also has a refreshing mint flavor that leaves your mouth feeling clean and fresh.}

_{Colgate Total Advanced Deep Clean Toothpaste} 

_{This toothpaste provides 12-hour protection against germs and tartar buildup. Its unique formula actively fights bacteria along the gum line, which helps prevent tartar buildup and gingivitis. It also contains fluoride to protect against cavities and has a refreshing mint flavor.}

_{Arm & Hammer Advance White Extreme Whitening Toothpaste}

_{On the list again, this toothpaste not only whitens teeth but also helps prevent tartar buildup. Baking soda is a gentle abrasive that removes plaque and stains from teeth while neutralizing odor-causing compounds.}

_{Top Picks for Sensitive Teeth}

_{Sensodyne Pronamel Gentle Whitening Toothpaste} 

_{This toothpaste is specifically designed for people with sensitive teeth. It strengthens tooth enamel, helps protect against the effects of acid erosion, and gently removes surface stains for a brighter smile. In addition, it has a gentle mint flavor that won't irritate sensitive teeth.}

_{Colgate Sensitive Maximum Strength Toothpaste} 

_{This toothpaste provides fast and long-lasting relief from tooth sensitivity. It contains potassium nitrate, which soothes the nerves in the teeth and helps prevent pain caused by hot, cold, sweet, or sour foods and drinks. It also contains fluoride to protect against cavities and has a pleasant mint flavor.}

_{Crest Gum and Sensitivity Toothpaste}

_{This toothpaste not only helps relieve tooth sensitivity but also promotes gum health. It contains stannous fluoride, which helps prevent cavities, strengthens tooth enamel, and fights against plaque and bacteria that can cause gum disease. It also has a refreshing mint flavor.}

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_{Top All-Natural Toothpaste Picks}

_{These kinds of toothpaste are made with natural, plant-based, or organic ingredients and do not contain harsh chemicals or artificial additives. As a result, they effectively clean teeth, fight cavities and promote oral health while being gentle on the environment.}

_{Tom's Of Maine Simply White Clean Mint Toothpaste}

_{This toothpaste is formulated without artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors. Instead, it's made with naturally derived ingredients such as zinc citrate to fight plaque and baking soda to naturally whiten teeth. It also has a refreshing peppermint flavor.}

_{Burt's Bees Toothpaste}

_{This toothpaste is free of sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors. Instead, it contains ingredients such as xylitol to fight cavities and essential oils for a refreshing taste. Plus, it's cruelty-free and comes in eco-friendly packaging.}

_{Dr. Bronner's Peppermint All-One Toothpaste}

_{This toothpaste is made with organic and Fair Trade ingredients, including coconut oil, aloe vera juice, and essential oils. It's free of SLS and synthetic foaming agents. It effectively cleans teeth and freshens breath while promoting healthy gums.}

_{Top Toothpaste Picks for Kids}

_{Below are our top picks for ADA-approved toothpaste for kids.}

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_{Colgate Kids Toothpaste with Fluoride}

_{This toothpaste is specially formulated for kids and helps prevent cavities with fluoride. It comes in fun flavors like watermelon and bubblegum, making it more appealing to kids.}

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_{Tom's of Maine Natural Children’s Fluoride Toothpaste} 

_{This toothpaste is made with natural ingredients such as calcium and silica to gently clean teeth and prevent cavities. It's free of artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives and comes in kid-friendly flavors like strawberry and orange mango. The packaging is also eco-friendly, making it an excellent choice for environmentally-conscious families.}

_{Crest Kids Toothpaste with Anticavity Fluoride}

_{This toothpaste contains fluoride to prevent cavities and has fun flavors like bubblegum and strawberry. It also features famous cartoon characters on the packaging, which can encourage kids to brush their teeth.} 

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Conclusion

Choosing the right toothpaste is an important part of maintaining good oral health. We hope this guide has been helpful in understanding ADA guidelines and what qualifies a safe and effective toothpaste.

If you have any lingering questions about toothpaste, the American Dental Association, or your oral health, contact us at Greentree Dental Group in Upper Arlington, Ohio.

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