Medicine
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

How do I Choose the Best Toothpaste for Gingivitis?

A.E. Freeman
A.E. Freeman

The best toothpaste for gingivitis will remove plaque from the teeth and kill bacteria in the mouth that can lead to gum disease. It will contain a number of ingredients that kill microorganisms without being too harsh or abrasive on your teeth and gums. While some toothpastes promise extras, such as teeth-whitening powers, you really do not need to worry about the cosmetic extras when attempting to keep gingivitis under control.

Gingivitis is a type of periodontal disease that makes your gums feel irritated. They may appear red and swollen. When you brush your teeth or floss, your gums may bleed. Left untreated, gingivitis can progress to a more serious form of periodontal disease.

A toothbrush with toothpaste on it.
A toothbrush with toothpaste on it.

Gingivitis can be treated by a thorough cleaning at your dentist's office. The dentist will scrape all the plaque and tartar off of your teeth and gums, which can be painful. To keep gingivitis away, you need to exercise good oral hygiene at home as well.

Toothpaste for gingivitis should contain fluoride. The main purpose of fluoride is to strengthen your tooth's enamel, which keeps cavities away. Fluoride also prohibits bacteria from growing in your mouth, especially bacteria that feeds on acid, which are more prevalent right after you eat. The anti-bacterial properties of fluoride reduce plaque buildup, which can reduce the signs of gingivitis.

The stages of periodontal disease, including gingivitis.
The stages of periodontal disease, including gingivitis.

The toothpaste should also contain triclosan, an antibacterial agent. Toothpastes that contain triclosan reduce gingivitis, as the triclosan kills bacteria that causes the disease. Some people may be concerned about using a toothpaste with triclosan, as it may cause other health and environmental problems.

If you wish to avoid triclosan, look for a toothpaste for gingivitis that contains metals such as zinc. Zinc and some other metals have anti-bacterial properties and can reduce the amount of plaque in your mouth. While zinc acts differently than triclosan, it still reduces gingivitis.

Antibacterial mouthwash, which can help with gingivitis.
Antibacterial mouthwash, which can help with gingivitis.

In addition to using a toothpaste for gingivitis, you should also floss and use a suitable mouthwash. Look for an anti-bacterial mouthwash and use it twice a day, swishing it in your mouth for 30 seconds. Your dentist may prescribe a mouthwash for you. Many antibacterial mouthwashes reduce gingivitis by 30 percent.

Floss at least once a day to remove food particles and bacteria between your teeth. If you are uncomfortable with your flossing technique, ask your dentist for instructions. Use either waxed or unwaxed floss for the same results.

Discussion Comments

anon970448

Triclosan has been identified as too dangerous to wash ourselves with but we can ingest it several times a day? Colgate is the only US toothpaste still using this chemical. Just like Crest with its' use of polyethylene, and its' dangers, these companies are creating health concerns for cosmetic effects.

For me, it is time to find perhaps an older brand with no additives other than fluoride, and a gentle abrasive. The most important element is proper brushing technique.

candyquilt

@burcidi-- I've been using natural toothpaste for the past year and I really like it. After reading your comment, I check the ingredients and it appears to be mainly silica and calcium and some other natural plant extracts for flavor and to soothe the mouth.

I believe the calcium basically does the same thing as fluoride, it makes the enamel stronger and I guess the silica is kind of like baking soda that people have traditionally used to clean teeth. It says that silica cleans the teeth, polishes and whitens it as well. So I don't see why it wouldn't protect against gingivitis.

I'm very happy with my toothpaste, I honestly can't see any difference from the regular toothpastes other than the fact that it is all natural. I recommend it.

burcidi

I would like to know if organic herbal toothpastes can prevent gingivitis just as well as the regular ones?

I enjoy using natural, organic products and have been thinking about shifting over to herbal toothpastes. I have found several different brands at the organic store and they all claim to fight gingivitis but don't have any of the ingredients I'm familiar with.

I wouldn't want to to put my health at risk if it doesn't provide adequate protection against gingivitis.

Does anyone know about this? Have you tried it and would you recommend me to use it? Thanks!

ddljohn

You should also look for the approval of the American Dental Association when buying toothpaste. It usually says something like "ADA approved" or has the ADA seal on it. The ADA doesn't approve any toothpaste which does not help prevent gingivitis, so that's a definite way to make sure that you are buying the right product.

Another way is to check the ingredients list like the article mentioned. I believe there is only two toothpaste formulas for gingivitis that ADA recognizes, so all ADA approved toothpastes have one formula or the other and you will see same or similar ingredients in them.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • A toothbrush with toothpaste on it.
      By: manipulateur
      A toothbrush with toothpaste on it.
    • The stages of periodontal disease, including gingivitis.
      By: Alila
      The stages of periodontal disease, including gingivitis.
    • Antibacterial mouthwash, which can help with gingivitis.
      By: design56
      Antibacterial mouthwash, which can help with gingivitis.
    • Toothpaste for gingivitis should contain fluoride, which helps strengthen tooth enamel.
      By: Subbotina Anna
      Toothpaste for gingivitis should contain fluoride, which helps strengthen tooth enamel.
    • Gingivitis can be treated with a thorough cleaning at the dentist's office.
      By: yanmingzhang
      Gingivitis can be treated with a thorough cleaning at the dentist's office.
    • Untreated gingivitis may cause the lymph nodes to swell.
      By: Barabas Attila
      Untreated gingivitis may cause the lymph nodes to swell.