Toothpaste (dentifrice)

     

Toothpastes are gels, pastes or powders that help to remove plaque, a film of bacteria that forms on teeth and gums after eating or drinking. Dr. Anna Lee says, "they come in different flavors, such as bubble gum, fruity, wintergreen, spearmint and others." Some toothpaste contains ingredients that help to reduce tooth sensitivity, gingivitis, tartar, bad breath and remove surface stains. However, the most important ingredient in the toothpaste is fluoride.  Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel to prevent tooth decay.  All ADA-Accepted toothpastes contain fluoride.

The American Dental Association conducts extensive laboratory tests on toothpastes to determine the toothpaste’s fluoride content, how it is released and its effectiveness on tooth enamel to prevent tooth decay.