If you have ever wondered how, exactly, your oral hygiene products work, then this article is for you! Today our Santa Monica dentists are talking about commonly used oral health ingredients. Once you get a better idea of what kinds of ingredients deliver results, you’ll be better equipped to choose products that meet your needs.
Fluoride
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that strengthens and hardens dental enamel. Fluoride makes it more difficult for oral acids to wear down otherwise healthy teeth. This mineral is found in a variety of oral health products; many toothpastes with the FDA seal of approval, for example, contain fluoride.
Calcium Carbonate
Calcium carbonate helps to remove bacterial plaque and dental debris from your smile. Calcium carbonate essentially acts as a gentle abrasive agent. As you brush your teeth, calcium carbonate particles buff away plaque and lessen surface stains.
Sorbitol
This ingredient improves the taste of toothpaste and helps the formulation stay cohesive as a gel. Sorbitol makes toothpaste taste slightly sweet and refreshing; however, it does so without exposing your mouth to harmful sugars. Sorbitol is a sugar substitute that won’t increase your risk of developing cavities.
Potassium Nitrate
Potassium nitrate is included in oral hygiene products in order to decrease sensitivity and discomfort as you clean your smile. This desensitizing agent allows you to clear away dental debris and plaque without irritating sensitive oral tissues.
These are some of the most popular ingredients in dentistry today, however, there are many more! You can always contact our Santa Monica dentists to learn more about various ingredients—we’re here to help.