Some patients may experience tooth sensitivity when using tartar-control toothpaste, but the good news is that when they stop using the toothpaste, the sensitivity goes away.

"Dentists and hygienists often recommend that patients use tartar-control toothpaste, particularly after a cleaning, to help prevent the build-up of tartar, which can lead to gum disease," says Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) spokesperson William Kuttler, DDS. "But after using tartar-control toothpaste, about 10 to 20 percent of patients complain of tooth sensitivity, so we suggest they stop using it."

"For those with tooth sensitivity, the recommendation is to avoid tartar-control toothpaste and use regular fluoride toothpaste instead," says Dr. Kuttler. "But for those who do not have sensitivity, tartar-control toothpaste tremendously reduces the build-up of tartar. However, check with your dentist. You may not need a tartar-control paste."

Ingredients found in some whitening toothpastes can also result in tooth sensitivity, which affects approximately 40 million adults in the United States.

Reviewed: January 2012