Toothpaste has many functions: it delivers fluoride to prevent cavities, freshens breath, cleans your teeth by removing dental plaque and food from your teeth, polishes your teeth and removes surface stains over time. Overall, toothpaste promotes good oral health
What is in toothpaste?
Toothpaste is available in paste or gel form. Despite the many types of toothpaste that exist, some ingredients are common to most varieties, these include:
- Abrasives to help brush away plaque and other debris with the aid of the toothbrush. Abrasives also polish your teeth, remove surface stains help teeth to be their whitest.
- Fluoride to make the entire tooth more resistant to decay and to promote remineralization, which makes your teeth stronger.
- Antigingivitis agents, such as stannous fluoride or triclosan to fight bacteria in dental plaque.
- Anti-tartar agents to help prevent the formation of tartar (also referred to as calculus) on tooth surfaces.
- Desensitizing agents, such as stannous fluoride and potassium nitrate to help reduce/relieve tooth sensitivity.
- Binding agents to keep all of the components together in a homogenous way.
- Humectant to keep your toothpaste from drying out.
- Flavors and sweetening agents to make the brushing experience more enjoyable.
Like other products that are designed to clean, toothpastes contain abrasive agents to aid in the removal of surface stains from teeth. While toothpaste must be abrasive enough to remove surface stains and dental plaque, it must not be so abrasive that it wears away vital tooth enamel.
How do I minimize the risk of tooth wear?
Wear on teeth due to tooth-brushing can be minimized by practicing proper brushing techniques, which includes using short gentle strokes in a circular motion with a soft bristle brush.
How do I know which toothpaste is right for me?
When it comes to choosing the best toothpaste for you it is important to think about your unique oral health needs. Some toothpastes aim to alleviate the discomfort associated with sensitive teeth. Some help to control plaque and tartar. Some are designed to remove stains and whiten teeth. Because each toothpaste is uniquely formulated to perform specific functions speak with your dentist or hygienist to determine which is right for you.
