Effective dental hygiene requires brushing twice daily for two to three minutes, alongside choosing the right fluoride toothpaste. Evaluations by organizations like Stiftung Warentest and ÖKO-TEST reveal significant performance differences among toothpaste brands, highlighting that affordability does not always indicate lower quality. Recent tests showed various brands excelling or failing due to health concerns or inadequate fluoride content. Selecting the right electric toothbrush is also essential for improving oral care routines.
Effective Tooth Brushing Techniques
To maintain optimal dental hygiene and eliminate harmful bacterial buildup, dental professionals recommend brushing your teeth at least twice daily for a minimum of two to three minutes each time. While the frequency and duration of brushing are essential, choosing the right toothpaste is equally important for effective oral care.
Comprehensive Toothpaste Evaluations
We have gathered insights from various toothpaste evaluations conducted by reputable organizations, including Stiftung Warentest, ÖKO-TEST, AllesBeste, and Konsument.at. All assessments shared a common criterion: the significance of fluoride in toothpaste. However, the products assessed displayed considerable differences in performance and quality.
A consistent takeaway from all evaluations is the strong recommendation for consumers to select fluoride-containing toothpaste. Additionally, some reviews focused on the toothpaste’s abrasive properties, which indicates its effectiveness in removing stains caused by beverages like tea and coffee. Interestingly, the results revealed that a low price point does not necessarily correlate with inferior performance.
Highlights from Stiftung Warentest Toothpaste Tests
The 2024 Test
This year, Stiftung Warentest reviewed a selection of universal toothpastes in their November 2024 issue. Eighteen new products were evaluated, and notably, all passed the review. However, two brands faced criticism for containing titanium dioxide, an additive that has been banned in food products since August 2022 due to health concerns. The top scorer for 2024 was Blend-a-med Complete Expert 24H Protection, achieving a remarkable score of 1.3 (‘very good’).
The 2023 Test
In the June 2023 evaluation, Stiftung Warentest examined 45 toothpastes from various brands, with prices ranging from 62 cents to 11 euros. The standout product was the affordable Prokudent Med from the Rossmann private label, which excelled in cavity prevention and stain removal, earning a score of 1.4 (‘very good’). However, some toothpastes, including Bioniq Repair and Weleda’s organic Calendula toothpaste, did not meet quality standards and were rated ‘poor’.
The 2022 Test
The July 2022 review revealed five toothpastes rated ‘very good’, two of which were budget-friendly. Unfortunately, four well-established brands failed the test due to the absence of fluoride, thus lacking adequate cavity protection.
The 2020 Test
In the October 2020 assessment, a whopping 115 products were evaluated. Both economical private labels and renowned brands achieved high ratings. Among the affordable winners was Today dent Sanftweiß, while Signal White Now and Logodent Rundumschutz also impressed with their fluoride content. However, some tested products did not meet the necessary standards and were discouraged by Stiftung Warentest.
Note: The latest toothpaste evaluations from trusted consumer organizations have been compiled here. Keep in mind that while some tests may be older, they offer crucial insights. Products can change over time, so stay informed about the latest formulations and packaging.
Insights from ÖKO-TEST and Other Evaluations
ÖKO-TEST: The 2023 Review
In its April 2023 issue, ÖKO-TEST evaluated 48 universal toothpastes, including 17 certified natural cosmetics. The findings indicated that price does not necessarily reflect quality. Of the products assessed, only nine received the top rating of ‘very good’, many of which were budget-friendly, costing under 1 euro. Alarmingly, 19 toothpastes failed the test, with 17 receiving a score of 6 (‘insufficient’).
The 2021 Test
In the October 2021 review, nearly 25% of the products did not meet quality standards due to the presence of harmful substances. Well-known brands like Colgate and Blend-A-Med faced criticism, while a few products emerged as clear winners.
Other Toothpaste Evaluations: FAZ Kaufkompass & Konsument
The FAZ Kaufkompass assessed 42 toothpastes, with Colgate Complete 8 Natural Herbs taking the top spot. Known brands like Sensodyne also performed well. Unfortunately, many natural cosmetics products failed to impress, receiving criticism for harsh ingredients and bland flavors.
Konsument’s findings echoed similar sentiments, suggesting that affordable toothpastes can provide excellent protection. Eleven out of 14 tested products received ratings of ‘very good’ or ‘good’, demonstrating that budget-friendly options are effective.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Electric Toothbrush
While selecting the right toothpaste is crucial for dental care, using an effective toothbrush is equally important. Our guide highlights the best electric toothbrush models to enhance your oral hygiene routine.
Stay informed and make educated decisions when it comes to your dental care products to ensure a bright and healthy smile.