FWIW, my dentist recommended Colgate Total because it had Triclosan in it; I don't remember exactly what she said -- it was years ago --- but something along the lines of it being the one toothpaste that seemed demonstrably better than others.

(The usual YMMV/talk to your own dentist/etc. disclaimers apply).

The FDA put the burden of proof on companies to show that the antibacterial additives had a positive effect on health. This was not done for the hand soap, but was done for the toothpaste, where studies DID show a positive effect from the additives in the toothpaste.

http://www.nytimes.com/2016/09/07/well/live/why-your-toothpa...