If you have shopped for toothpaste lately, you will know that the toothpaste aisle can be a bit overwhelming.

Unlike in the past when the choices were few, today there seem to be too many toothpastes that provide whitening, tartar control, paste or gel, gum health, desensitizing, among others...but, which is the right choice?

The fact is, buying a particular type or brand of toothpaste is usually not as important as the way you brush and how often you brush. However, here are some facts about different types of toothpastes:

Tartar control:Tartar is calcified plaque which naturally forms and can be harmful to your teeth and gums. While tartar control toothpaste has been shown to reduce the formation of new deposits, it can't remove current ones and does nothing to prevent formations beneath the gum line (where they are most dangerous).

Paste vs. Gel: No significant difference...just a personal preference.

Desensitizing: These toothpastes have ingredients that block the small, tube-like channels that connect to the nerve tissue inside of your teeth. If you have an exposed root due to gum recession or teeth that are generally sensitive to hot and cold, this may be a good solution for you. But, you have to be patient -- these toothpastes can take around 4 to 6 weeks to take effect.

Whitening: The abrasiveness of these products may reduce surface stains, but they do little to treat the actually yellowing of the teeth from the inside. However, most teeth can be whitened with the right treatment.

Gum Care: Studies have shown these to be questionable at best, and they may not be as effective as standard toothpastes in preventing cavities.

Expensive or Bargain Brand?: Good news! The price doesn't seem to be related to the effectiveness when choosing a toothpaste. Bargain brand is fine.

So, which toothpaste should you use?

The answer is simple: Always choose a brand that contains fluoride and has the American Dental Association seal of approval.

Remember to brush often -- morning, night, and after every meal -- and use a soft bristled toothbrush. Make sure to reach every surface of every tooth, and brush for at least 2 minutes.

If you have any questions, feel free to ask us at the office! We are also happy to demonstrate proper brushing techniques.

Thanks for the question! Your first visit typically includes an x-ray that allows us to view the structure of the jaw, the position of any teeth that have not yet erupted, malformed roots, and tooth decay.

The initial visit also involves getting your medical history. When you share your medical history with us, be sure to provide complete, up-to-date information on your health. Please let us know if you have experienced recent hospitalization or surgery, or if you have recently been ill. Also tell us the names, doses, and frequency of any medications you are taking — whether prescription or over-the-counter products — and the name of your physician. Please also let us know about any changes in your health or medications. This information will us select the most safe and effective method of treatment path for you.

Have any more questions about your first visit? Please give us a call!

Our practice knows that image can be everything. May happens to be National Teen Self-Esteem Month, and during this time, parents are encouraged to act as positive role models, help stop negative self-images, and improve confidence and security among teenagers.

We know one of the great ways to improve your confidence is to improve your smile. And that begins with a visit to our office. Has your child visited our office in the past six months for his or her regular check-up? We invite you to give us a call to book your appointment!

See you soon!

We are living in an age with a renewed commitment to conservation, and are frequently reminded to recycle, reduce and reuse. Last Sunday marked Earth Day, so today we thought we would discuss some of the things we do to conserve our natural resources and the environment.

Our office is digitalized, which means we can operate without the use of large amounts of paper and printing materials. The information in our office can be sent and processed digitally, which is also more efficient. We take all of the steps possible to be a 'green' office, making us better for the planet and more convenient for our patients.

We would love to hear how you minimize your impact on the environment. Leave us a comment below or post on our Facebook page!