Along with cleanings and checkups twice a year at The Dental Design Center in White Plains, brushing and flossing are essential for maintaining good dental health. With that in mind, this post answers some common questions about toothpaste.
Why does toothpaste seem gritty?
The abrasive aspect of toothpaste is to aid in removing dental plaque and food from the surface of the teeth. Vigorous brushing becomes unnecessary for dental patients when the abrasives in the 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 flavorants are used to encourage continued use of the paste and to freshen breath. However, effective toothpaste alone is not designed to cure halitosis (bad breath) for people affected. While unflavored toothpastes exist, 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 important 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 men and women for preventing dental caries and controlling gingivitis. Fluoride-containing compounds are added to many toothpastes to add another important dimension to the oral hygiene regimen for preventing decay.
How are toothpaste and flossing related?
Flossing regularly in conjunction with toothbrushing helps with avoid 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 powerful layer of defense against bacterial growth in the mouth.
To maintain the best dental health possible, make sure you brush and floss twice a day, and see us at The Dental Design Center in White Plains twice a year. Our services include general and cosmetic Dentistry. Schedule your next appointment today!
The Dental Design Center – Ira J. Handschuh, D.D.S.:
914-683-5898
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
280 Dobbs Ferry Rd Ste 104
White Plains, New York
10607
