Ever stop to wonder why toothpaste comes in such a variety of colours? It might look like a purely aesthetic choice, a way to entice us but there’s actually more than meets the eye.
Toothpaste is a paste or gel dentifrice used with a toothbrush to clean and maintain the aesthetics and health of teeth.
Toothpaste is important in our daily oral hygiene routine, working alongside our toothbrush and floss to keep our teeth and mouths clean and healthy. It comes in a paste, gel, or even powder form, and while the exact ingredients may vary slightly between brands, they all share some core components.
One crucial element is a mild abrasive that with the help of brushing, scrubs away food particles, plaque buildup, and surface stains. Many toothpastes contain fluoride, a mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent cavities.
On top of these essentials, toothpaste can contain a variety of other ingredients depending on its specific focus. Some might target sensitive teeth thereby including ingredients to soothe discomfort. Others might be designed for teeth whitening, containing gentle polishing agents to remove surface stains and reveal a brighter smile.
So, with all these benefits packed into a single tube, why would we not make brushing with toothpaste a regular habit?
- Brushing twice a day, along with flossing, is important for removing plaque, which is full of bacteria that can lead to cavities and gum disease.
- Regular use of toothpaste helps keep our breath fresh, fights the growth of bacteria, and promotes overall oral health.
Now that we have established the importance of this let us look at the various reasons why toothpastes have different colours and the roles these colours play.
What The Colours Of Your Toothpaste Means?
There’s a common misconception that the coloured squares or stripes you see near the seal at the bottom of a toothpaste tube actually tell you something about the ingredients inside.
According to this myth, a green mark means the toothpaste is all-natural, a blue or red stripe indicates a mix of natural and artificial ingredients, and black supposedly signifies a purely chemical concoction.
But here is the truth: These markings’ colour has nothing to do with the toothpaste formula. These coloured squares or stripes are registration marks used during manufacturing.
Consider Your Specific Needs.
While the colour on the bottom might not hold any secret ingredient clues, there are still ways to choose the right toothpaste for your needs.
1. For Sensitive Teeth.
There are kinds of toothpaste formulated with ingredients to desensitise nerves and soothe discomfort.
2. For Brighter Smiles.
Whitening toothpaste can help remove surface stains and reveal a more radiant appearance.
3. Gum Health.
If you have concerns about gum health, some toothpastes target gum disease specifically.
Remember that it is always a good idea to consult your dentist for personalised recommendations based on your oral needs and health. So, the next time you browse the toothpaste aisle, remember that the colour on the bottom is most likely just a manufacturing detail.
Focus on the ingredients listed on the label and choose a toothpaste that caters to your specific needs. With the right brushing routine, you can keep your smile healthy and shining brightly.
Conclusion.
It goes without saying that oral health is very important. A bright smile can help to improve one’s self-confidence when in public and no one likes mouth odour.
Brushing twice a day for two minutes each time, and flossing once a day, are the cornerstones of good oral hygiene, but choosing the right toothpaste can give your smile that extra edge.
Read also: Oral Hygiene: Effective Ways To Protect Your Teeth
