Getting braces is a big step for your smile, but it also means stepping up your oral hygiene game. Food gets trapped easily, and you need to be extra careful about preventing cavities and keeping your gums healthy. That’s where the right toothpaste comes in. It’s not just about minty breath anymore; it’s about protecting your teeth while navigating life with brackets and wires. So, what toothpaste is a winner for braces? Let’s find out.
Here’s a quick look at the best toothpaste options if you have braces:
- Best Overall: Colgate Ortho Defense Toothpaste
- Best for Sensitivity: Sensodyne Pronamel Gentle Whitening Toothpaste
- Best for Whitening: Crest Pro-Health Whitening Gel Toothpaste
- Best Fluoride Boost: ACT Anticavity Fluoride Rinse (used in conjunction with toothpaste)
- Best Natural Option: Hello Naturally Whitening Fluoride Toothpaste
Top 5 Best Toothpaste for Braces
1. Colgate Ortho Defense Toothpaste
Colgate Ortho Defense Toothpaste is formulated specifically for people with braces. It helps to protect enamel around the brackets and wires, making it a solid choice for everyday use.
Pros:
- ✅ Contains fluoride for cavity protection.
- ✅ Helps prevent white spots (decalcification) around braces.
- ✅ Has a mild flavor that’s not overpowering.
Cons:
- ❌ Some users may find the texture a bit thin.
- ❌ Not specifically designed for whitening.
- ❌ Can be harder to find in some stores compared to regular toothpaste.
Verdict: A reliable, everyday toothpaste specifically designed for braces. It’s a great choice for anyone looking for basic protection and cavity prevention while wearing braces.
2. Sensodyne Pronamel Gentle Whitening Toothpaste
If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity with your braces, Sensodyne Pronamel Gentle Whitening Toothpaste is a great option. It strengthens enamel and helps to gently whiten teeth.
Pros:
- ✅ Formulated to strengthen enamel, which is crucial when wearing braces.
- ✅ Helps to relieve tooth sensitivity.
- ✅ Gently whitens without being too abrasive.
Cons:
- ❌ Whitening effect is subtle.
- ❌ Some users might not like the taste.
- ❌ More expensive than some other toothpaste brands.
Verdict: Ideal if you have sensitive teeth and want a toothpaste that will protect your enamel while gently whitening. It’s a solid choice for those prone to sensitivity.
3. Crest Pro-Health Whitening Gel Toothpaste
Crest Pro-Health Whitening Gel Toothpaste provides comprehensive oral care, including whitening, which can be beneficial while wearing braces to combat staining. It also fights gingivitis, cavities, and sensitivity.
Pros:
- ✅ Provides whitening action to help combat stains.
- ✅ Protects against gingivitis, a common concern with braces.
- ✅ Contains fluoride for cavity protection.
Cons:
- ❌ Some users might find it too strong or abrasive.
- ❌ The whitening effect might not be dramatic.
- ❌ Taste can be a bit medicinal for some.
Verdict: Good all-around toothpaste if you’re looking for whitening and comprehensive oral health benefits. Just be mindful if you have sensitive teeth or gums.
4. ACT Anticavity Fluoride Rinse
While not a toothpaste, ACT Anticavity Fluoride Rinse is a valuable addition to your oral hygiene routine with braces. It provides an extra boost of fluoride to help prevent cavities, especially in hard-to-reach areas.
Pros:
- ✅ Provides extra fluoride protection.
- ✅ Helps reach areas that brushing might miss.
- ✅ Easy to use and incorporates well into your routine.
Cons:
- ❌ It is a rinse, not a toothpaste, so it must be used in addition to toothpaste.
- ❌ Some flavors might contain alcohol.
- ❌ Requires an extra step in your oral hygiene routine.
Verdict: A great addition to your routine, especially if you’re concerned about getting fluoride to all areas of your mouth while wearing braces. Use it after brushing for best results.
5. Hello Naturally Whitening Fluoride Toothpaste
For those looking for a more natural option, Hello Naturally Whitening Fluoride Toothpaste is a solid choice. It’s free of artificial sweeteners, dyes, and other harsh chemicals while still providing effective cleaning and whitening.
Pros:
- ✅ Made with natural ingredients.
- ✅ Fluoride for cavity protection.
- ✅ Whitens without harsh chemicals.
Cons:
- ❌ Whitening might be less effective than with conventional whitening toothpaste.
- ❌ Taste might take some getting used to.
- ❌ Can be more expensive than traditional toothpaste brands.
Verdict: A good option if you prefer natural products and want a toothpaste that’s gentle on your mouth while still providing fluoride protection.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right toothpaste for braces involves considering a few key factors. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:
- Fluoride Content: Make sure the toothpaste contains fluoride. Fluoride is essential for preventing cavities, which is especially important when you have braces.
- Sensitivity: If you experience tooth sensitivity, opt for a toothpaste specifically designed for sensitive teeth. These kinds of toothpaste often contain ingredients like potassium nitrate, which helps to soothe nerve endings.
- Whitening: Braces can sometimes lead to uneven whitening. Look for a toothpaste that offers gentle whitening action. Avoid highly abrasive toothpastes, as they can damage enamel.
- ADA Seal of Acceptance: The American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance indicates that the toothpaste has been tested for safety and effectiveness.
- Ingredients to Avoid: Stay away from toothpastes with excessive amounts of artificial colors, sweeteners, and harsh abrasives.
- Texture: Gel toothpaste might be easier to use with braces as it can get into the small spaces more easily.
- Flavor: Choose a flavor you like, so you’re more likely to brush regularly. But avoid sugary flavors that could promote tooth decay.
FAQs
Q: Can I use regular toothpaste with braces?
A: Yes, you can use regular toothpaste as long as it contains fluoride. However, toothpaste specifically designed for braces can offer additional benefits, such as better access around brackets and protection against white spots.
Q: How often should I brush my teeth with braces?
A: You should brush your teeth after every meal or at least three times a day. It’s essential to remove food particles and plaque that can accumulate around your braces.
Q: Is whitening toothpaste safe to use with braces?
A: Yes, but choose a gentle whitening toothpaste to avoid damaging your enamel. Also, keep in mind that whitening toothpaste will only whiten the areas of your teeth that are not covered by brackets. After your braces are removed, you may notice uneven whitening, which can be addressed with professional whitening treatments.
Q: Should I use a fluoride rinse in addition to toothpaste?
A: Using a fluoride rinse can provide extra protection against cavities, especially in hard-to-reach areas. It’s a good addition to your oral hygiene routine, but it’s not a substitute for brushing with fluoride toothpaste.
Q: What else can I do to take care of my teeth with braces?
A: In addition to brushing and flossing, consider using interdental brushes (proxabrush) to clean between your brackets and wires. Regular check-ups with your orthodontist are also crucial for monitoring your oral health and making any necessary adjustments to your braces.
Conclusion
Choosing the right toothpaste is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to maintaining good oral hygiene with braces. By selecting a toothpaste that meets your specific needs – whether it’s cavity protection, sensitivity relief, or gentle whitening – and by following a consistent oral hygiene routine, you can keep your teeth healthy and sparkling throughout your orthodontic treatment. Don’t forget to talk to your dentist or orthodontist for personalized recommendations!
This site contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click on a link and buy a product, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
