Which Toothpaste Is Best? A Brisbane Dentist’s Guide

Which Toothpaste Is Best? A Brisbane Dentist’s Guide

Choosing the right toothpaste can feel overwhelming with so many options on the supermarket shelves. The good news is that a few simple guidelines can help you find the right toothpaste for your needs — whether you want to reduce sensitivity, protect your enamel, improve gum health or simply keep your smile clean and fresh.

Here’s a clear, evidence-based guide from our Brisbane City dentist to help you choose confidently.

Applying fluoride toothpaste to a toothbrush at the sink

1. Start With Fluoride — It’s Essential

No matter which toothpaste you choose, make sure it contains fluoride.

Fluoride helps strengthen enamel, prevents dental decay and it’s efficacy is supported by decades of safe and effective use.

Families and individuals of all ages benefit from using a fluoride toothpaste daily. If you’re unsure which strength is right for you or your child, your dentist can advise you

Brisbane CBD dentist advising patient on oral health care

2. Toothpaste for Sensitivity

If you experience sensitivity to cold, sweet or brushing, look for a toothpaste labelled for sensitive teeth. These products help block the tiny porous channels (tubules) in your dentine, reducing sensitivity over time.

Common triggers for sensitivity include:

  • gum recession
  • worn enamel
  • recent whitening treatments
  • clenching or grinding

If your sensitivity doesn’t improve after a few weeks of use, speak to your dentist — there may be an underlying cause that needs attention.

Person brushing their teeth as part of daily oral hygiene

3. Toothpaste for Gum Health

If you’ve been told you have early gum disease (gingivitis) or inflammation, consider a toothpaste formulated for gum health.

These toothpastes help reduce plaque accumulation and support healthier gums when paired with good brushing and flossing.

However, toothpaste alone won’t resolve gum disease.

Regular professional cleans at your Brisbane CBD dentist and improved home-care habits are essential.

4. Whitening Toothpaste: What You Need to Know

Whitening toothpastes can help remove surface stains from coffee, tea, wine or foods — but they won’t change the natural colour of your teeth. They are best for maintaining brightness rather than achieving dramatic results.

If you’re looking for a noticeable whitening effect, speak to your dentist about professional teeth whitening options.

Brisbane CBD dentist discussing cosmetic dentistry options with a patient

5. Toothpaste for Dry Mouth

Dry mouth (xerostomia) is common and can be caused by medications, medical conditions, stress or dehydration.

A dry mouth increases the risk of decay because saliva helps neutralise acids and protect teeth.

If your mouth regularly feels dry, look for a toothpaste designed for dry mouth relief, which often contains lubricating ingredients.

If dryness persists, speak to your dentist — we can recommend additional products or investigate underlying causes.

6. Toothpaste for Children

Children need fluoride toothpaste too, but the amount depends on their age.

General guidance:

  • under 18 months: smear of low-fluoride toothpaste (only if recommended)
  • 18 months–6 years: small pea-size amount of low-fluoride toothpaste
  • over 6 years: standard adult fluoride toothpaste

Always supervise brushing until at least age 7–8 to ensure correct technique and avoid swallowing excess toothpaste.

Your dentist can help select the right fluoride strength based on your child’s risk level.

Child brushing their teeth

7. Toothpaste to Avoid

Avoid toothpastes that are:

  • non-fluoride (they offer no decay protection)
  • overly abrasive (can wear enamel)
  • promising unrealistic results
  • marketed as “natural” but lack fluoride

Some charcoal toothpastes can be too abrasive and may contribute to enamel wear.

8. When to Ask Your Dentist for Advice

Speak to your dentist if you:

  • have persistent sensitivity
  • experience bleeding gums
  • have ongoing bad breath
  • are unsure which fluoride level is suitable
  • have dry mouth or erosion
  • use multiple medications
  • are pregnant (your needs can change)

Your dentist can match a toothpaste to your specific oral health needs.

The two dentists and owners of Dentistry on George, a Brisbane CBD Dental Clinic

Conclusion: The Best Toothpaste Depends on Your Needs

There is no single “best” toothpaste for everyone. The right choice depends on your oral health, lifestyle, medical history and dental goals.

If you’re unsure which option suits you, our Brisbane City dentists can help guide you during your routine check-up.

Need help choosing the right toothpaste?

Our Brisbane CBD dental team can recommend options tailored to your oral health, sensitivity, gum condition and dental goals.

Book an appointment today or contact us to learn more.

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