Choose a fluoride toothpaste; fluoride is the ingredient with the strongest evidence for preventing cavities, and the ADA Seal confirms a paste's claims were reviewed. Stannous fluoride also helps with gum health and sensitivity; potassium nitrate targets sensitivity. Whitening pastes remove surface stains, not deeper color. For children, use a rice-grain smear under age 3 and a pea-sized amount from 3 to 6.
Most toothpaste does the same core job. The differences are in fluoride type, add-on ingredients and abrasiveness.
Key ingredients
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Sodium fluoride or sodium monofluorophosphate | Cavity prevention |
| Stannous fluoride | Cavity prevention, gingivitis, sensitivity |
| Potassium nitrate | Sensitivity |
| Hydrated silica | Mild abrasive for cleaning |
| Hydrogen peroxide (low level) | Whitening support |
Most adult US fluoride toothpastes contain about 1,000 to 1,500 ppm fluoride. Higher-strength pastes are available by prescription.
Sensitivity
Sensitivity pastes work over time; use them twice a day for several weeks. Spit, do not rinse, to leave more active ingredient on the teeth. Persistent sensitivity needs a dental check.
Whitening pastes
Whitening toothpastes remove surface stains with abrasives or low-level peroxide. They do not change the natural shade of teeth like whitening strips or trays.
Abrasivity
RDA measures abrasiveness. ADA-accepted pastes fall within the ADA’s safe limit. Very abrasive pastes plus hard brushing can wear exposed root surfaces.
Kids
| Age | Amount |
|---|---|
| Under 3 | Rice-grain smear of fluoride toothpaste |
| 3 to 6 | Pea-sized amount |
Supervise young children so they spit rather than swallow.
This is general information, not dental advice. Browse toothpaste and rinse.
Common questions
Do I need fluoride toothpaste?
For cavity prevention, fluoride toothpaste is what the ADA recommends for most people.
What toothpaste is best for sensitive teeth?
Pastes with potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride, used consistently for a few weeks. See a dentist if sensitivity persists.
How much toothpaste should kids use?
A smear the size of a grain of rice under age 3, and a pea-sized amount for ages 3 to 6, per the ADA.
What is RDA on toothpaste?
Relative dentin abrasivity, a measure of how abrasive a paste is. ADA-accepted toothpastes must be within its limit.