1. Fluoride
- Purpose: Strengthens enamel and prevents cavities.
- How it Works: Fluoride remineralizes weakened enamel, making it more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria.
2. Abrasives
- Purpose: Removes plaque and surface stains.
- Common Types: Calcium carbonate, silica, alumina.
- How it Works: These particles scrub teeth without damaging enamel.
3. Detergents
- Purpose: Creates foam to spread toothpaste evenly.
- Common Type: Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS).
- How it Works: Helps remove food particles and plaque.
4. Humectants
- Purpose: Prevents toothpaste from drying out.
- Common Types: Glycerin, sorbitol, propylene glycol.
- How it Works: Retains moisture, keeping the paste smooth.
5. Binders (Thickeners)
- Purpose: Provides texture and prevents separation.
- Common Types: Xanthan gum, carrageenan.
- How it Works: Ensures toothpaste maintains a uniform consistency.
6. Preservatives
- Purpose: Extends shelf life by preventing bacterial growth.
- Common Types: Sodium benzoate, parabens.
7. Flavoring Agents
- Purpose: Improves taste and freshens breath.
- Common Types: Mint oils (peppermint, spearmint), artificial sweeteners (saccharin, xylitol).
8. Desensitizing Agents (Optional)
- Purpose: Reduces tooth sensitivity.
- Common Types: Potassium nitrate, strontium chloride.
- How it Works: Blocks nerve signals to reduce pain.
9. Antibacterial Agents (Optional)
- Purpose: Kills bacteria to reduce plaque and gingivitis.
- Common Types: Triclosan (less common now), stannous fluoride, zinc citrate.
