Every single time I get to the toothpaste shelves in the pharmacy, I stand and gaze for about 15 minutes. There is such a large selection and I never know which toothpaste (or gel??) to choose. It’s not about the taste you see, it’s deciding between the ones that say “tooth defense†and those with “tartar protection†or “gum health†or maybe this time I should go with “whitening formula� Which toothpaste works best?
If you look at the ingredients list on the back of the toothpaste, you will find more than just flavors or whitening additives. Many toothpastes contain ingredients such as Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (foaming), baking soda, enzymes, vitamins and calcium.
Indeed, there are many and many substances in toothpaste, but today, we’d like to discuss the 5 basic toothpaste ingredients that should be found in a paste, the 5 ingredients that actually help your oral health.
Most Popular – Fluoride
Fluoride is the most common active ingredient in most toothpastes. Fluoride prevents cavities and effects dental enamel and bones. Fluoride can be found in our water, and fluoride tablets are given to children in order to prevent future tooth decay and cavities. Although some groups disagree with mixing fluoride with drinking water, some dentists say that 50% of children between the ages 5 and 17 have never had a cavity because of fluoride in their tooth enamel.
In your Toothpaste and Deodorant – Triclosan
Triclosan is a relatively new guest in the world of oral hygiene. Triclosan is used in deodorants for a very long time, but introduced to toothpastes only 15 years ago. Triclosan is an antibacterial and antifungal agent, and Colgate discovered that triclosan can reduce the amount of bacteria in mouth when used for a long period of time.
Add some Salt
Homemade toothpowders are made of 3 parts baking soda and one part salt. The use of salt dates back to 19th century England and today salt is an important and active ingredient in toothpastes around the world. Why? Because salt is antiseptic and prevents gum disease.
Shine – Hydrogen Peroxide
Whitening toothpastes are more popular than ever. Hydrogen peroxide is considered to be an effective whitener and in low doses, hydrogen peroxide can prevent gum disease. In order for hydrogen peroxide to whiten teeth, a high dosage should be used and this procedure is normally done by a dentists.
The cavity fighter – Xylitol
Xylitol, approved in 1963 by the FDA, is a friendly, non-fermentable sugar alcohol. It is effective if taken daily in a small dosage, and you can find xylitol in many chewing gums. Recently, oral xylutol syrup was developed and the results look promising.
If you want to get more information about your smile and oral health, please visit us at www.hansonplaceortho.com. At Hanson Place Orthodontics we strive to work together and establish happiness, self-esteem, comfort and optimal oral health for all our patients and to be efficient and encouraging while creating big beautiful smiles.
Hanson Place Orthodontics provide New Yorkers and their families, the most advanced and comprehensive orthodontic care available.
Mark Etinger is a business strategist at Ajax Union Marketing Ajax Union specializes in Business Development and Internet Marketing
