Many of us walk the supermarket isles in search of either our favourite brand of toothpaste, the most recommended brand, or the cheapest toothpaste on offer. But how conscious are we of what this accessory to cleaning teeth called “tooth paste” actually is?
Toothpaste is called dentrifice in French and contains surfactant, humectant, abrasive, binder, and in most makes fluoride to remove plaque, freshen the mouth, and whiten the teeth. Historically, tooth powder was used by the Romans and preceded tooth paste but may still be used in the form of baking soda as an alternative. Primitive tooth powder consisted of ground horns, hoofs, bones, and shells that were burned and mixed with a palatable substance, such as honey.
Essex dentists have contributed to the development of toothpaste that contain ingredients such as fluoride and xylitol to actively combat disease to the teeth and gums. It’s common for toothpastes to have minuscule amounts of chemicals that may be poisonous when swallowed, so toothpaste should be used for cleaning and rinsing, then be spat out.
In addition, dentists often teach the importance of knowing how to brush your teeth because it’s more the action of brushing that cleans than the toothpaste itself. Visit your Essex dentist to learn what toothpaste is right for you and how to brush properly to prevent plaque, tartar, gum disease, tooth decay, and tooth extraction and other nasty dental jobs.