What’s So Special About Toothpaste?

One of the easiest ways to maintain good oral health is to brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day and to visit your downtown Boise dentist for routine cleanings and exams. But have you ever wondered what toothpaste is made of and how it works? Not only does toothpaste freshen your breath and leave your mouth feeling clean it is one of best lines of defense when it comes to preventing tooth decay.

How Toothpaste Works

Abrasives
Toothpaste is made up of mild abrasives that help combat the growth of bacteria while preventing the buildup of plaque. When you brush with toothpaste, the abrasives work to remove microorganisms and leftover food particles while polishing the surface areas of your teeth. Many toothpaste brands also contain ingredients like triclosan and Xylitol that go the extra mile to prevent the growth of plaque-producing bacteria. Not only does plaque cause tooth decay it can also lead to more dangerous Boise dental issues like periodontal disease.

Fluoride
Fluoride is another key ingredient found in toothpaste. As the bacteria inside your mouth feeds off of leftover food particles, it leaves behind an acidic byproduct that causes tooth decay. This is a fancy way of saying that the acid on your teeth causes cavities. Fluoride works to not only strengthen your teeth but reduce the growth of bacteria and acid-related damage.

Flavoring and Sweetening Agents
With a variety of brands to choose from, toothpaste comes in an assortment of different flavors. While flavoring doesn’t do much to fight bacteria or the buildup of plaque, it does, however, provide it with an appealing flavor. This, in turn, helps increase the odds of a person brushing their teeth 2-3 times a day.  

Summit Dental Group

Many adults think that brushing and flossing their teeth is the best way to maintain good Boise dental health. However, it’s impossible to have a healthy mouth if that’s all you do. While brushing is important, it doesn’t remove everything that gets left behind. That’s why it’s important to visit your downtown Boise dentist for regular teeth cleanings and exams.

If it’s been awhile since your last Boise teeth cleaning, don’t delay. Give Summit Dental a call at (208) 314-2275 to set up an appointment!