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Toothpaste contains a variety of chemicals, including fluoride, which helps to protect teeth against tooth decay and gum disease. Toothpaste is an essential component of everyday dental care, and dentists recommend that patients use it twice a day. Brushing your teeth after each meal is ideal, but twice a day will be enough. Visit Jeanne V. Devi DDS for more information on how to care for your teeth and to receive the best dental treatment for your specific needs.

What Is Toothpaste?

Toothpaste is a gel or paste that eliminates plaque, a sticky film of germs that are constantly generated on the teeth's surfaces. Toothpaste is applied to the teeth with a toothbrush and then washed away.

Toothpaste is beneficial to oral health because it combats gum disease and includes fluoride, which strengthens tooth enamel and prevents tooth decay. Additionally, toothpaste contains abrasives to clean and whiten teeth, which flavors freshen breath and improve cosmetic appeal.

Key Ingredients in Your Toothpaste

Abrasives

While your toothbrush handles the majority of the mechanical work in releasing plaque, toothpaste contains compounds known as abrasives that give your brushing movement an extra push. The perfect abrasive is powerful enough to eliminate plaque but gentle enough not to harm tooth enamel. 

Detergents

The foaming activity of your toothpaste indicates the presence of a detergent, which aids in the loosening and breakdown of non-soluble food items. While similar to what you might use to wash your clothing or dishes, toothpaste detergents are considerably milder, with sodium lauryl sulfate being the most prevalent, present in many cosmetic items. 

Fluoride

Fluoride's ability to build enamel was one of the most important discoveries in dentistry history. Although not all toothpaste includes fluoride, using one with fluoride can improve the health of your enamel and help protect you from tooth decay.

These and other substances, such as binders, preservatives, and flavorings, all contribute to toothpaste being the teeth-cleaning, disease-fighting product on which we've all grown to rely. When used as part of your regular oral hygiene routine, toothpaste can help brighten and freshen your smile while also keeping your teeth and gums healthy.

Tips for Choosing a Toothpaste

• Select American Dental Association (ADA) approval.
• Beware of imposters.
• Fluoridated toothpaste
• Consider your requirements as well as the needs of your family members.

For the best dental care, visit us at Jeanne V. Devi DDS at 595 E Colorado Blvd Suite 603, Pasadena, CA 91101, or call us at (626) 795-2544 and schedule an appointment.