Did you know back in the 1960s NASA invented an edible toothpaste for its astronauts, surprising isn’t it? But the even more surprising fact is that India is one of the first few countries to use teeth cleaners and this was back in 500 BC. 

In the present day, we have more than a few hundred kinds of toothpaste available, but how do you choose the best one for you? Knowing more about this magical substance that protects and cleans our teeth might help us analyse our situation better. 

Most toothpastes contain the following components:

• Fluoride is a mineral that helps in strengthening the enamel and making them less susceptible to cavities and damage from acidic food/drink. Fluoride is needed to be present in the toothpaste for it to be approved by the American Dental Association.
• Abrasives remove food debris and stains from teeth though they are considered inactive since they do not reduce the risk for cavities or gum diseases.
• Anticalculus agents help against the calcification of dental plaque, calculus formation and reduce gum disease chances.
• Detergents help in foaming.
• Antibacterial agents for protection from bacteria.
• Humectants prevent the loss of water in the toothpaste so it won’t dry up inside the tube.
• Anti Sensitivity agents to reduce painful sensations.

Also Read :- Electric Toothbrush Is Better Or Manual Toothbrush?

In these modern times, there are also many kinds of toothpaste that claims to have ingredients like Salt, Lime, Charcoal, Baking Soda, Aloe-vera etc. Are these just marketing hoaxes? Yes, these toothpastes have such additives, the question should be if they work or not. 

Salt in toothpaste- The claims are made that Sodium Chloride or the common table salt is used as abrasives in the toothpaste to remove stains and discolouration. But these types of toothpaste may not contain fluoride.

Baking Soda in toothpaste- Some kinds of toothpaste contains baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) along with salt which helps in destaining the teeth.

Lime in toothpaste- The claims are made that it serves as a gentle plaque remover. 

Activated charcoal in toothpaste- The claims are made that it acts like magnets for other particles like plaque, tart, debris etc, it absorbs all those unwanted substances to be swept away when the charcoal is rinsed off.

Aloe-vera in toothpaste- The claims are made that it is used to cleanse and soothe teeth and gums and is effective in toothpaste to fight cavities.

There are so many options available, making an informed decision is a must but that is not enough. Apart from regular checkups, you must consult the best dentists in the country while choosing oral wellness products. 

Also Read :- Here's Why You Should Change Your Toothbrush During FLU Season!

MyDentalPlan- India’s largest dental network has its reach across 300+ cities and provides the best-standardised treatments which are affordable to all. Do not wait around for oral issues to manifest themselves, visit https://mydentalplan.in/ and find the best suited dental plan for your family.