Most people stick with the same toothpaste for years without thinking twice. But not all formulas are created equal—and sometimes, the product you’re using may actually be working against you. Research shows that the right toothpaste can help reduce plaque, protect against cavities, and even improve gum health. On the other hand, the wrong formula (or an ineffective one) can leave your mouth vulnerable.
Here are three evidence-based signs that it may be time to switch.
Tooth sensitivity—those sharp, zappy sensations when you drink something hot or cold—can be caused by worn enamel or exposed dentin. Toothpastes designed for sensitivity usually contain potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride, which calm nerve pathways and strengthen enamel.
If you’re experiencing worsening sensitivity, your current toothpaste may be:
Too abrasive, wearing away enamel (especially “whitening” pastes with harsh grit).
Missing protective ingredients like fluoride or nano-hydroxyapatite, both proven to reinforce enamel.
Science check: A 2003 study in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology found that toothpastes without enamel-protective agents failed to reduce hypersensitivity over time.
Halitosis (chronic bad breath) is usually caused by bacteria on the tongue and gums that produce sulfur compounds. A good toothpaste should fight these bacteria with antibacterial agents such as:
Stannous fluoride
Zinc compounds
CBD (cannabidiol) – a newer research-backed ingredient that has demonstrated antibacterial effects against oral pathogens while also helping to maintain oral pH balance, making the mouth less hospitable to harmful bacteria.
If your toothpaste only freshens breath with flavoring agents like mint or menthol, the effect is temporary. You’ll notice your breath smelling stale within hours, which means the bacteria are still thriving.
Science check: Emerging studies show that CBD-infused oral care products reduce bacterial biofilm and help stabilize oral pH, supporting a healthier balance in the mouth.
If you’re brushing consistently but still noticing surface stains or plaque buildup at your gumline, your toothpaste might not be doing its job.
Reasons include:
Low levels of abrasives, which are necessary to remove surface stains.
Lack of active whitening agents like hydrogen peroxide.
Weak plaque control—fluoride helps remineralize, but ingredients like pyrophosphates, zinc citrate, and CBD (for bacterial control and pH regulation) are more effective at preventing tartar buildup.
Science check: A landmark PubMed-indexed study found that tartar-control formulas significantly reduced calculus buildup compared to regular fluoride pastes over a six-month period. CBD has also been shown to inhibit bacterial growth and biofilm formation.
It’s time to rethink your toothpaste if you notice:
The bottom line: The best toothpaste is one that matches your needs. Sensitive teeth, whitening goals, and gum health all require different ingredients. Don’t settle for a product that simply foams and freshens—look for research-backed formulas designed to solve your specific oral health challenges.
We proudly serve patients in Dyer, St. Joe, Valparaiso, Munster, Schererville, Chicago, and Merrillville with modern, research-backed dental care.
As your trusted Schereville dentist, we offer a range of services and utilize advanced dental technology to provide our patients with quality, precise and comfortable care. Building relationships with our patients built on trust is the key to our success.