Evidence-based recommendations from the team at Maria Cardenas DMD
Choosing a toothpaste may seem like a simple decision, but the product you use twice a day can have a meaningful impact on your long-term oral health. Not all toothpastes are created equal. Some are designed to reduce sensitivity, others help prevent cavities, while some can be unnecessarily abrasive and contribute to enamel wear over time.
At Maria Cardenas DMD, we believe toothpaste recommendations should be personalized — not based on marketing claims. Our hygiene team recommends products based on each patient's unique oral health, including enamel condition, cavity risk, gum health, existing restorations, and tooth sensitivity.
This guide highlights the toothpastes we most frequently recommend in our practice.
Every toothpaste contains polishing particles that help remove plaque and surface stains. However, the amount and type of abrasive particles vary considerably between products. Over time, highly abrasive toothpastes may contribute to:
For this reason, we generally recommend low-abrasion toothpastes that clean effectively while preserving natural teeth and dental restorations.
Best for:
Curaprox Enzycal is our preferred everyday toothpaste because it combines effective cleaning with one of the lowest abrasiveness levels available in the United States. Its enzyme-based formula supports the mouth's natural protective defenses while helping preserve enamel and the polished surfaces of porcelain restorations.
Abrasiveness: Very low
Where to find it: Curaprox USA, Amazon, and select dental offices
Best for:
CariFree Gel 1100 is one of our favorite preventive toothpastes because it combines low abrasiveness with advanced cavity protection. Its formula contains 1,100 ppm fluoride, nano-hydroxyapatite, xylitol, and pH-support technology to help strengthen enamel while supporting a healthier oral environment.
Available in Mint, Grape, and Citrus flavors — an excellent option for patients who prefer alternatives to traditional mint toothpaste.
Abrasiveness: Low
Where to find it: CariFree.com, Amazon, and select dental offices
Best for:
RiseWell uses nano-hydroxyapatite, a mineral naturally found in enamel, to support remineralization while maintaining a gentle cleaning profile. It is a useful option for patients looking for a clean, mineral-based toothpaste.
Abrasiveness: Low
Where to find it: RiseWell.com, Amazon, and select Whole Foods locations
Best for:
Sensodyne Pronamel Original contains 5% potassium nitrate, a desensitizing ingredient that helps reduce sensitivity by calming the nerve response inside the tooth. With consistent use, it can reduce discomfort from cold, heat, sweets, and brushing while supporting enamel against daily acid exposure.
We recommend the Original formula and generally advise avoiding highly abrasive whitening options.
Abrasiveness: Low
Where to find it: CVS, Walgreens, Target, Walmart, and Amazon
Best for:
Colgate Sensitive Complete Protection also contains 5% potassium nitrate, providing sensitivity relief while offering gentle cleaning and cavity protection. It is a practical choice for patients who prefer a familiar product that is readily available at most pharmacies and grocery stores.
Abrasiveness: Low
Where to find it: CVS, Walgreens, Target, Walmart, grocery stores, and Amazon
For patients at very high risk of tooth decay
For patients at very high risk of developing cavities, we may recommend a prescription-strength fluoride toothpaste. These products contain 5,000 ppm fluoride — substantially more than standard over-the-counter toothpaste — to help strengthen enamel, promote remineralization, and reduce future decay risk.
Best for:
CariFree Gel 5000 combines prescription-strength fluoride with CariFree's pH-support technology. It is particularly useful for patients with dry mouth, recurrent cavities, or an acidic oral environment.
PreviDent 5000 Booster Plus is a well-established prescription fluoride toothpaste and an excellent option for patients with active decay or very high caries risk.
Abrasiveness: Low
Availability: Prescription only
Many whitening toothpastes achieve their effect through increased abrasiveness rather than true whitening chemistry. Although they may remove superficial stains, long-term daily use can contribute to enamel wear, sensitivity, root surface abrasion, faster wear of composite bonding, and loss of surface polish on porcelain restorations.
For patients with veneers, crowns, exposed root surfaces, or sensitive teeth, we generally recommend a low-abrasion toothpaste instead. Patients interested in a brighter smile should ask about professional whitening options that are safer and more effective than relying on abrasive toothpaste.
There is no single "best" toothpaste for everyone. The best toothpaste is the one selected specifically for your oral health needs. Our recommendations consider your:
Our goal is to provide personalized preventive care that protects your natural teeth and preserves your dental investment for years to come.
Not sure which toothpaste is right for you?
Ask our hygiene team at your next visit — we'll recommend the best option for your smile.