Toothpaste is a soft substance that helps remove food debris and plaque from your teeth, and is essential to good oral hygiene. Basically, toothpaste enhances the cleaning effect of the toothbrush. There are many different types of toothpaste but most of them combine fluoride, which strengthens the tooth enamel and fights caries, with other ingredients that prevent plaque, tartar and gum disease. To make the most of the effect of the toothpaste, it is important to use an effective toothbrushing technique.
Toothpaste ingredients
The formulations of different toothpastes vary, but most are made up of the following basic ingredients:
Fluoride strengthens the tooth enamel and prevents caries. It is the active ingredient in most toothpastes.
Water keeps the toothpaste from drying out.
Binding agents stabilize the toothpaste and prevent the solid and liquid ingredients from separating. They usually consist of cellulose, but natural gums, seaweed colloids and mineral colloids are sometimes used as well.
Humectants such as glycerol, propylene, glycol and sorbitol keep the toothpaste moist and soft.
Abrasives, usually based on chalk or silica, remove debris and stains from your teeth. The amount of abrasives in the toothpaste varies from brand to brand, but in general it is better to use toothpaste with mild abrasives, since high levels can damage the enamel and make your teeth sensitive.
Flavoring and coloring agents are used to make toothpaste taste and look good. Mint and peppermint are common toothpaste flavors. Many toothpastes also contain saccharin, stevia, xylitol or other sweeteners that do not contribute to caries.
Preservatives are added to prevent bacterial growth in the toothpaste. Alcohols, benzoates, formaldehyde and paraben are among the most common preservatives.
Detergent creates foam and loosens plaque. Sodium lauryl sulfate and sodium N-lauryl sarcosinate are the most common detergents.
