Toothpaste is a daily essential, but choosing the wrong type can undermine oral health, according to Dr. Najat Alyafei of Qatar’s Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC).
Dr. Alyafei, manager of Oral Health Promotion and Prevention at PHCC, said many people overlook the importance of selecting toothpaste based on age and specific oral health needs. Using an unsuitable product, she warned, can contribute to tooth decay, enamel erosion, gum irritation and increased sensitivity.
She explained that tooth decay may occur when toothpaste lacks fluoride, while highly abrasive formulas combined with aggressive brushing or hard-bristled toothbrushes can wear down enamel. Strong foaming agents such as Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) may also irritate gums and oral tissues. Tooth sensitivity can worsen if toothpaste does not include desensitising ingredients such as potassium nitrate or strontium chloride.
Dr. Alyafei stressed that consumers should understand active ingredients, choose the appropriate fluoride concentration and carefully read product instructions to ensure effective oral protection.
For children under three, she recommends toothpaste containing 500 to 1,000 parts per million (ppm) of fluoride, used in an amount no larger than a grain of rice. Because young children cannot reliably spit, brushing should be supervised to prevent swallowing. Mild flavours and formulas without strong foaming agents are preferred.
Children aged three to six should use toothpaste with 1,000 to 1,450 ppm fluoride, applied in a pea-sized amount. Parental supervision remains important, and products should avoid whitening agents or harsh foaming compounds.
From age seven onward, children can switch to regular adult toothpaste containing 1,350 to 1,500 ppm fluoride. Dr. Alyafei advises brushing twice daily, morning and evening, using a pea-sized amount to strengthen enamel and prevent cavities.
People with sensitive teeth should choose toothpaste designed for sensitivity, containing fluoride along with ingredients such as potassium nitrate or arginine. These help calm tooth nerves and reduce pain from hot, cold or air exposure, with improvement typically seen within two to four weeks of consistent use.
For those experiencing gum inflammation or bleeding, Dr. Alyafei recommends toothpaste formulated for gum health. These often include antibacterial agents like zinc or natural oils such as tea tree oil. Chlorhexidine may be used in certain medical products or mouthwashes under dental supervision, but only for short periods due to potential side effects such as staining or altered taste.
Individuals with dry mouth—common among older adults or those taking certain medications—should opt for alcohol-free, SLS-free toothpaste. Products containing moisturising agents like glycerin or xylitol can help relieve dryness, reduce cavities and improve breath. Xylitol may also support saliva production and limit harmful bacteria.
Dr. Alyafei concluded that selecting the right toothpaste is a simple but critical step in maintaining long-term oral health.