Toothpaste is a key part of your daily oral hygiene routine. Along with your toothbrush and floss, it helps to remove food debris and plaque from your teeth and gums.
Toothpaste can come in a gel, paste or powder form. While the ingredients differ slightly, all kinds of toothpaste contain the same general components:
- Mild abrasive.
- Humectants. (retain moisture and prevent the toothpaste from hardening on exposure to air)
- Flavouring agents.
- Thickening agents.
- Detergent.
They may have all the same basic ingredients, but all kinds of toothpaste are not the same. Depending on the toothpaste, other ingredients can also be added for other benefits.
Here are some important things to keep in mind when choosing your toothpaste:
- Decay prevention: Fluoride is a natural cavity fighter helps to strengthen tooth enamel and fight tooth decay. Not all toothpaste contains fluoride. Be sure to always use toothpaste containing this cavity-fighting mineral.
- Plaque and gingivitis: Several kinds of toothpaste contain active ingredients that can fight plaque and gingivitis, an early form of gum disease.
- Whitening: If you’re looking for a little extra sparkle in your smile, “whitening” toothpaste have special chemical or polishing agents that help remove more surface stains than regular toothpaste.
- Desensitizing: If you have sensitive teeth, you may want to consider using a desensitizing toothpaste. These contain compounds which help to reduce tooth sensitivity
At the end, whatever the toothpaste you use, you should follow proper brushing technique to achieve good oral health.