That would require an extensive clinical trial. As a result, we couldn't tell whether Total or any other product performed significantly better than the others. Still, our results show that most toothpastes are well formulated and have the potential to curb dental disease. It fights cavities Fluoride is the only active cavity-fighting ingredient in these toothpastes. When plaque acids start to dissolve tooth enamel and create the first trace of a cavity, fluoride can help minerals in saliva re-enter the tooth to repair damage.
Children benefit from fluoride, of course.
So do adults, who can get cavities along areas newly exposed as gums recede. In the past, dental researchers have been concerned that some abrasives and other toothpaste ingredients reduced the availability of fluoride in the mouth. We tested the current toothpastes to make sure that a crucial amount of fluoride is released within the first minute of brushing, closely following an ADA criterion. Most toothpastes passed this test. A handful didn't release enough fluoride fast enough, costing them points in the Ratings .