1. Buying Expensive vs Cheap Toothpaste

Comparing two toothpastes that have the same active ingredients and nearly identical inactive ingredients, functionally they are the same. The only difference is branding, cost, and the overall experience of the toothpaste (i.e. aftertaste, smoothness, freshness, etc.). If you don't care about the feel of the toothpaste, choose the cheaper one--it's just as effective.

2. A Toothpaste Stronger Than Sensodyne?

if Sensodyne toothpaste does not curb your teeth sensitivity, there is a prescription toothpaste your dentist can write that is 5x more effective than Sensodyne. If that doesn’t work, you likely have active cavities or other conditions on your teeth that your dentist should address for your sensitivity.

3. Do I Do Mouthwash or Toothpaste Last?

You are encouraged to use mouthwash with your brushing regimen. Whatever is most important, make sure you use that product last. If cavities are your main concern, use mouthwash first and finish with toothpaste. If gingivitis for example is your priority, use mouthwash last unless your toothpaste is a gingivitis-fighting toothpaste.

4. Does Toothpaste Have Gluten?

Sort of. No known toothpastes have gluten in them; however, several have gluten-like ingredients that cause celiac-like symptoms. Avoid those toothpastes if you are gluten intolerant or have celiac.

5. Can Adults Use Kids Toothpaste?

Nearly all kid and adult fluoride toothpastes contain the same amount of fluoride regardless who the toothpaste is labeled for. Adults can use kids toothpaste and will receive the same dose of fluoride to sufficiently protect their teeth.

6. Allergies to Toothpaste

Some say they are allergic to fluoride. Highly unlikely. Most people are allergic to the mints: spearmint, peppermint, and cinnamon. Use children's toothpaste instead. It contains the same amount of fluoride needed to protect adult teeth and they have a variety of flavors that are not minty.

7. Can I Grow an Intolerance to Sensitivity Toothpaste?

Overuse of sensitivity toothpaste will not lead to an intolerance over time. Think of sensitivity toothpaste more like using lotion and less like medicine. Teeth are made up of tiny tubes and when fluids enter them, the tooth becomes sensitive. This toothpaste simply clogs the widened tubes of your teeth that cause sensitivity.

8. Does Whitening Toothpaste Work Like I Think?

93% of the marketed "whitening" toothpastes are simply abrasives that remove external staining but do not change the internal color of your teeth. If you want that result you need to brush with toothpaste that contains hydrogen peroxide.

9. Breathalyzer Test

Some toothpastes contain alcohol and these have been found to cause false positives under certain conditions when getting pulled over and taking a breathalyzer test. If you are planning on getting pulled over after drinking, choose a different toothpaste.

10. Best Natural Toothpaste

Baking Soda—of any of the natural toothpastes, baking soda from your kitchen is the best natural toothpaste. It has many benefits except for the lack of fluoride. A suggestion is brushing once a day with baking soda and the other time at least brushing with a fluoride toothpaste.