Page 23 - MAYO CLINIC Head to Toe e-magazine 293700

23 Choosing toothpaste and mouthwash

Fluoride provides the best defense against tooth decay Other claims
you may find in toothpaste and mouth-rinsing products include:
• Plaque control 24

Some products claim to remove plaque or kill bacteria that can cause
plaque But all toothpastes remove some plaque if you brush and
floss well
• Tartar control
Anti-tartar pastes can help prevent a buildup of tartar, but no
toothpaste can remove tartar — that takes a professional cleaning
In addition, an anti-tartar paste may increase your teeth’s sensitivity
to cold
• Desensitizing pastes

These products contain chemicals that block pain perception in your
teeth Sensitive teeth may be a sign, however, of a problem that
needs treatment, not cover up
• Baking soda pastes

Baking soda is a mild abrasive and stain remover, but when wet it
loses some of its stain-removing power
• Mouthwashes and rinses
Using a mouthwash or rinse can complement dental care by protect-
ing surfaces you may have missed when brushing and flossing

25

22 Mayo Clinic