Into The Thick Of It, The Skinny On Toothpaste - General and Cosmetic Dentistry

Vandalia cosmetic dental and tooth implants

Welcome to the blog of Vitangeli Dental in Englewood OH! This post answers some common questions about toothpaste, and good dental hygiene.

Why does toothpaste seem gritty?

The abrasive aspect of toothpaste is to assist in removing dental plaque and food from the surface of the teeth. Vigorous brushing becomes unnecessary when the abrasives in toothpaste can snag the mouth’s lingering bits of food and polish the enamel at the same time.

What’s with the strong minty flavors?

Minty flavors are used to encourage continued use of the paste and to freshen breath. However, toothpaste alone is not designed to cure halitosis (bad breath) for individuals affected.

While minty toothpaste is the most common, the world has also seen such flavors as peanut butter, iced tea, and ginger. To treat halitosis, it is best to prohibit periodontal disease and to also brush bacteria from far back on the tongue. Removing the source is critical and more effective than covering it up with minty flavorings.

What is Fluoride’s place in a toothpaste?

Fluoride occurs in small amounts in plants, animals, and some natural water sources. It is championed by health-conscious people for preventing cavities and controlling gingivitis. Fluoride-containing compounds are added to many toothpastes to add another vital dimension to the dental hygiene regimen for preventing decay.

How are toothpaste and flossing related?

Flossing regularly in conjunction with toothbrushing aids in averting bacterial growth, tooth decay, and plaque build-up by simply removing chunks of food or substances that could break down the tooth.

Finally, what about the relationship between toothpaste and mouthwash?

The use of mouthwash cannot replace regular brushing and flossing. Mouthwash (or fluoride rinse) simply adds yet another dynamic layer of defense against bacterial growth in the mouth.

At Vitangeli Dental in Englewood OH, we encourage brushing and flossing twice a day, and seeing us for a checkup twice a year, as the best ways to promote good dental hygiene and health. We offer a wide range of general and cosmetic dentistry services. Schedule an appointment with us today.