Are You Using Too Much Toothpaste?

Are you using too much toothpaste? It’s hard to know how much is too much, but we’re here to help.

Most commercials show large amounts of toothpaste each time you brush but rarely do you see the correct amount to use each time. Some suggest using a small pea-size amount is more than enough to ensure your teeth are brushed thoroughly. The message here is the more toothpaste doesn’t mean cleaner teeth.

The amount of toothpaste you use as a child is very important and can be overlooked. If you use too much toothpaste when brushing this could increase the chance of swallowing excess paste, or developing a condition known as Fluorosis. Fluorosis is the appearance of faint white lines or streaks that occur on the surface of your teeth. In most cases, Fluorosis will not affect the health of your teeth but cause stains that can only be removed by a dentist.

When it comes to brushing your teeth the more toothpaste you use does not necessarily cause any cosmetic effect, but can inhibit your toothbrush from being used correctly. You should be taking two minutes each time you brush, however by using a large amount of toothpaste you will produce too much foam making it harder to brush in circular motions, for the correct amount of time.

Toothpaste works by breaking down the bad bacteria that can lead to plaque build-up, cavities and tooth decay. By using a pea-sized amount you are still achieving the benefits of toothpaste but also allowing the bristles to dislodge any food particles trapped in your gums or in between your teeth.