Why Toothpaste: Dispelling Some of the Controversies
Thursday, January 29, 2026
8:00 – 10:00 am
Course Code:
486TL
Credits:
2
CE Hours
What is the most common question patients think about asking but are too afraid to ask? What toothpaste should I use? Yes really! Look at the toothpaste aisle in the store and see why a patient may be confused. What if someone wants whiter teeth, no cavities, good breath, gum disease prevention, “tartar” control, etc. which toothpaste do they pick? Which one do you recommend? Does it even matter?
In this course, attendees will discuss common (and uncommon) questions patients have asked about toothpaste, evaluate the active and inactive ingredients, review how to talk to your patients about selecting a toothpaste that is right for them and helping them filter through misinformation with science.
Speakers
After this course attendees will be able to:
- Explain the evidence-based therapeutic outcomes of the available toothpaste formulations
- Examine the challenges related to the formulation of stannous fluoride dentifrices
- Determine the most appropriate dentifrice recommendation based upon specific patient needs
- Discuss reduction of biofilm and gingivitis with stannous fluoride as an active toothpaste ingredient
- Respond to questions from patients about toothpaste and oral care in popular press and social media
The Colgate grant has been applied to this course.
The Massachusetts Dental Society is an ADA CERP Recognized Provider
ADA CERP is a service of the American Dental Association to assist dental professionals in identifying quality providers of continuing dental education. ADA CERP does not approve or endorse individual courses or instructors, nor does it imply acceptance of credit hours by boards of dentistry. Concerns or complaints about a CE provider may be directed to the provider or to the Commission for Continuing Education Provider Recognition at
ADA.org/CERP