For more than half a century, fluoride has been recognised as the most important decay-preventing agent we know. The modern view of fluoride is that regular contact with small amounts is the most important way of bringing fluoride to the teeth. It intervenes if calcium is being removed from the teeth and tends to reverse this process. Most toothpastes on the market now contain fluoride. After water fluoridation, toothpaste is probably the best method for distributing fluoride because most people use it regularly and frequently.
Toothpaste also contributes to general oral hygiene and a sense of well-being.
A clean mouth eliminates bad odours and many people like the fresh taste that using toothpaste gives. Most people will not experience difficulty using toothpaste, but occasionally problems occur. Over-use of toothpaste can lead to excessive abrasion of the teeth, which may become noticeable if the dental enamel is worn down. In most cases, your dentist, dental therapist or hygienist will notice this and point it out, if it applies to you. Some small children swallow toothpaste.