WHAT ARE THOSE INGREDIENTS IN TOOTHPASTE FOR?

Ever wondered just what all those chemicals are for that we brush on our teeth twice a day?

Read on for more information. Remember not all toothpastes are the same so check the back of the tube/box to find out exactly what you are putting on your teeth:

SODIUM FLUORIDE – Fluoride in toothpaste has a long track record of preventing cavities by helping the teeth in their re-mineralisation process. Particularly useful if your local water does not have fluoride added to it or occurring naturally; this is important especially for children who often need something to counteract the high levels of sugar consumed.

POTTASIUM NITRATE – Used to reduce sensitivity of teeth by blocking the tubules and preventing sensitivity to hot/cold.

TRICLOSAN – An anti-bacterial agent to reduce plaque.

ARGININE & CALCIUM CARBONATE – Acid neutralisers

HYDRATED SILICA, MICA, SODIUM BICARBONATE – Abrasives to remove staining.

PVM/MA COPOLYMER – Helps keep Triclosan on your teeth and gums so it can do its job.

SORBITOL, GLYCEROL, GLYCOL, PROPYLINE – Lubricants keeping the toothpaste flowing.

SODIUM LAURYL SULPHATE (SLS) – Foaming agent, also a solvent of fats and grease

METHYLPARABEN AND SOIDIUM BENZOATE – These are both preservatives to keep toothpaste clean and fresh.

CELLULOSE GUM, CARRAGEENAN AND XANTHAN GUM – Also used to keep toothpaste moist and fluid.

SODIUM HYDROXIDE – This is used to keep the pH of the toothpaste neutral.

TITANIUM DIOXIDE (CI 77891) – An artificial colour making the paste white and shiny.

LIMONENE, PEPPERMINT OIL, CIHNNAMAL, GLYCERINE, SUCRALOSE, SORBITOL, SODIUM SACCHARIN, LOTA CARRAGEENAN, AROMA & MINT FLAVOUR – Added flavours and sweeteners.


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