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Gel versus Paste: Which One is Best for Your Teeth?

Answering an Age-Old Oral Healthcare Question

When choosing an oral care product to clean your teeth, there are more aspects to consider than brand, flavor, or price. Although toothpaste is the most commonly chosen formula for daily dental hygiene, those worried about preserving their enamel may consider a switch after finishing this article.

Toothpaste Gel Formula

Toothpaste Traditional Formula Featuring Tri-Colored Option

Let’s talk about the differences between two popular teeth cleaning products – tooth paste and tooth gel – and help you decide which kind is right for your smile.


Differences Between Tooth Gel and Paste

Of course, the main difference between tooth gel and toothpaste is the consistency of the formula itself. While there are options on the market for combination gel and paste products, oftentimes people will choose one or the other. Here are some of the main differences between these two types of dentifrice:

This side-by-side chart illustrates the many difference between toothpaste and tooth gel formulas.

Is One More Effective Than the Other?

Do these spots on the mirror look familiar? Traditional toothpaste formulas create a foamy texture that easily splatters and can cause a mess on the surrounding area - including your bathroom mirror!

One common rumor surrounding tooth gel vs. paste is that toothpaste does a better job of cleaning your teeth because the aftertaste lasts longer and the foamy texture creates a false sense of security when it comes to our brushing techniques. Unfortunately, a minty mouth and foamy texture does not guarantee good dental health.

That being said, which formula is the most effective at cleaning your smile?

Both toothpaste and tooth gel are effective manners of brushing your teeth, although, people with weak or thinning enamels should be wary of paste. The act of brushing develops a foamy texture and this foam tends to wear away at tooth enamel which can lead to tooth decay.


Tooth gel formulas are great options for kids. Not only do they include less abrasive chemicals that can cause damage to their developing teeth, but gel-based formulas are less likely to cause a big, foamy mess!

As for tooth gel, its thin consistency has a gentler impact on tooth enamel. In addition to this, gel-based formulas are great options for kids as their ingredients contain less chemicals that scrape the natural minerals on their growing teeth. Because of these factors, tooth gel is often recommended for those with enamel defects and sensitive teeth or gums.

Toothpastes and Gels Won’t Fix Technique

Whether you choose a gel-based oral care product or a foamy paste, the most important element of cleaning your teeth relies on technique. Making sure that you brush twice daily, floss every day, and maintain regular dental appointments is the key to a healthy smile.

If you’re unsure about what kind of toothpaste or gel you should be using, ask us at your next appointment! We’ll be happy to help you decide which formula is right for you.


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