History and Uses of Toothpaste

History and Uses of Toothpaste

The history of toothpaste began with the ancient Egyptians who first used toothpaste around 5000BC, about 1,500 years before the first toothbrush was used. Ancient toothpaste was used to fight some of the concerns that we still have today: cleaning teeth and gums, whitening teeth and freshening the breath. Some pretty strange ingredients were used to help remove stains like crushed bones, oyster shells, soap, chalk and even charcoal. Today, modern toothpaste provides a wide variety of advancements to provide the most benefits possible for oral health. Special ingredients are used to help with tooth sensitivity, fluoride is used to help prevent tooth decay and triclosan is a common ingredient that helps provide extra protection against cavities, gum disease, plaque, calculus and bad breath. Aside from the oral hygiene benefits of modern toothpaste, there are numerous unexpected uses for toothpaste.

  • Removes scuffs from leather
  • Piano Keys
  • Carpet stains
  • Crayon from painted walls
  • Blemish cream for pimples
  • Polish jewelry
  • Deodorize baby bottles
  • Ink or lipstick stains on fabric
  • Watermarks on furniture
  • And many more

The choices of toothpaste that you will find at the store can be overwhelming but there are a few things to look for when making your selection. The American Dental Association seal will be on approved toothpaste.

  • Flouride
  • Triclosan
  • Anti-sensitivity ingredients
  • Abrasives
  • Whiteners

Always consult with your dentist if you are unsure of which toothpaste is best for your specific needs.

When it comes to your oral health, selecting the right dentist can make all the difference in the world. At Gables Sedation & Family Dentistry, we provide the very latest dental and sedation techniques to ensure that your experience is pain and stress-free. Get in touch to learn more about the dental sedation services we provide for our patients.