Toothpaste fights cavities by removing plaque and bacteria that occur not only on the teeth, but also on the gums, says to the American Dental Association. Known as a dentrifice, toothpaste combined with the cleansing power of a toothbrush can help to improve oral hygiene. Toothpaste contains a number of ingredients, including flavoring and thickening agents, detergents, flavoring and humectants--as well as active ingredients to kill bacteria and plaque.
Fluoride
Fluoride is an active ingredient that found in all American Dental Association-approved toothpastes. When applied and brushed onto the teeth, fluoride can strengthen tooth enamel, which helps to prevent cavities. Untreated cavities can cause tooth decay and gum disease--both painful occurrences that can result in the loss of a tooth. Fluoride also can help to reverse the effects of tooth decay, the American Dental Association says. Although the first version of fluoride, known as stannous fluoride, is no longer used due to its chemical instability, today's toothpastes contain sodium fluoride, says dentistry.com.
Triclosan
Although not found in all toothpastes, triclosan is an antibacterial product that helps to fight contamination, states the United States Food & Drug Administration (FDA). According to the FDA, when incorporated into toothpaste, triclosan helps to prevent gingivitis, a condition that causes inflammation in the gums. In addition to being an active ingredient in toothpastes, products such as antibacterial soaps, body washes and cosmetics use triclosan.
Sodium Pyrophosphate
The Family Gentle Dental Care websites says that sodium pyrophosphate is an active ingredient in toothpaste that helps to fight tartar. When brushed onto the teeth after a meal, sodium pyrophosphate can remove minerals found in saliva that can cause tartar to build up in the mouth, says the Worldwatch Institute. However, sodium pyrophosphate only helps to eradicate tartar above the gumline--not underneath. Because sodium pyrophosphate can increase teeth sensitivity, those with sensitive teeth shouldn't use it.
