Toothpastes That Promise To Save Your Smile And Enamel: Do They Work?

RANDOLPH (CBS)- We all know we have to brush regularly to maintain our dental health, but how important is the toothpaste you use?

There are a lot of new products which promise to protect your enamel from acid erosion.

Dr. Robert Emami of Dental Specialties in Randolph says enamel loss is a problem because once it is lost, it can never be restored.  The worst culprits when it comes to acid erosion are some of the most popular drinks.

Soda, citrus juice, red wine, and some sports drinks can do the most damage to our enamel.

WBZ-TV's Paula Ebben reports from Randolph.

Dr. Emami says the idea that toothpaste can prevent enamel erosion is a bit of a reach.  "At the molecular level, when you look at these things, there is a change.  But is that change enough to reverse these problems? Typically, it's not," he explained.

These reformulated toothpastes aren't cheap either.

Ounce for ounce, we found "Crest Pro-Health Enamel Shield" is about 28% more than a basic version of Crest.  "Colgate Total Enamel Strength" cost about 32% more than one of their more simple formulas.

When asked if this is really just a marketing gimmick, Dr. Emami said "With the extent they talk about it, it really is."

The manufacturers dispute that, saying these toothpastes are different and are the result of years of research and development.

Dr. Emami recommends you save your money and just pick a fluoridated toothpaste that tastes good to you.  Chances are, if you like the taste, then you will brush long enough to maintain your smile.

Another tip is not to brush right after having one of these acidic drinks or food.  You can actually cause more erosion by brushing too soon.