If You Aren't Brushing With One Of These Dentist-Approved Toothpastes, You're Doing It Wrong

It’s been drilled into you repeatedly since you were little: Brushing your teeth is important for healthy teeth and gums. And, naturally, finding the best toothpastes to help you get the job done is a crucial element.

FWIW, the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste. From there, “The qualities to look for in a toothpaste all depends on what you want and need out of a toothpaste,” says Julie Cho, DMD, a dentist in New York City and member of the American Dental Association. “Do you want something that will diminish your sensitivity to air and cold? Do you want anti-cavity protection? Do you want one that will help with dry mouth?” Figuring that out upfront will make the whole process of finding the right toothpaste for you that much easier. (We've got a whole variety of options ahead.)

Another pro tip: When you’re actually shopping for toothpaste, it’s helpful to keep eye out for the ADA seal of acceptance. This seal means that companies have demonstrated that the toothpaste is safe and effective at cleaning your teeth. Keep in mind that not all good toothpastes have this, but you can know that any toothpaste you choose with this seal is quality. Looking out for the seal “can help make your life easier,” says Nate Lawson, DMD, PhD, associate professor in the school of dentistry at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Got all that? There are a lot of different options out there, and it’s a little overwhelming to know where to start. Here are the best toothpastes out there.