Most of us have been taught since childhood to brush our teeth two or three times a day. Along with using an age-appropriate toothbrush with soft, medium, or firm bristles, we are encouraged to use an inch or so of toothpaste atop the brush to get teeth thoroughly clean over a period of about two minutes each time, usually after eating. Using a toothbrush to loosen and remove debris as well as to stimulate gum health is easy to understand. But toothpaste on a brush plays more than just a cleansing role, and for that reason should be considered a valuable part of daily dental hygiene.
Toothpaste Helps to Break Down Debris
Along with the chewing efforts of teeth and the scrubbing motion of a toothbrush, toothpaste contains ingredients that chemically latch onto particles between or on teeth as well as the gum line and begins to dissolve them. In evaluating how toothpaste works, it begins to erode food debris to remove bacteria and other substances that can lead to cavities or other dental problems. Toothpaste also holds together effectively and adheres to the toothbrush to focus on dental debris that needs to be removed.
Toothpaste Floats Away Loosened Debris
After chemically eroding plaque buildup on the teeth, toothpaste ingredients become sudsy to remove residual substances that have been loosened. Like laundry detergent or dish soap, toothpaste uses a chemical response to force debris from under the gum line and from between the teeth.
Toothpaste Helps to Protect the Teeth
Additional ingredients in many types of toothpaste act as antibacterial agents to clean and purify the teeth. This is another important way how toothpaste works to keep your mouth fresh and healthy after providing a thorough cleansing. Toothpastes that contain fluoride offer added protection to strengthen a person’s teeth and help to prevent cavities.
Toothpaste Freshens Your Breath
Many brands of toothpaste contain various flavors, generally a form of mint. A mouth-freshening flavor helps to make your teeth feel clean after brushing. You can experience fresh breath that lasts to help you feel more attractive and confident when talking to others.
For more information about toothpaste and other dental hygiene products or to schedule an appointment for a dental exam, call North View Dental. You and your family members will appreciate their comfortable and professional office and friendly staff. The sooner you receive professional dental advice for your teeth and their proper care, the better you will feel.
