page_title: Toothpaste
section_title: Safety
hierarchical_section_title: Toothpaste / Safety
caption_attribution_description: English: postage stamp recognizing fluoridated toothpaste
context_page_description: Toothpaste is a paste or gel dentifrice used with a toothbrush to clean and maintain the aesthetics and health of teeth. Toothpaste is used to promote oral hygiene: it is an abrasive that aids in removing dental plaque and food from the teeth, assists in suppressing halitosis, and delivers active ingredients to help prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Salt and sodium bicarbonate are among materials that can be substituted for commercial toothpaste. Large amounts of swallowed toothpaste can be toxic.
caption: Icelandic postage stamp encouraging use of fluoridated toothpaste
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