"Lucky Dozen" or rating of the 12 best toothpastes

This rating of toothpastes was compiled with the participation of specialists from dental clinics in Russia. Practical observations and the help of voluntary participants also helped determine which toothpaste is the best. The study involved only high-quality brands of toothpastes, having both whitening and protective, strengthening properties.

How to choose the right toothpaste.

August 10, 2022
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Content

• How to choose toothpaste
• Top 7 toothpastes recommended by dentists
• Parodontax Classic
• Biorepair Fast Sensitive Repair
• Elmex Protection against caries
• ROCS PRO Moisturizing Moisturizing
• Curaprox Enzycal 1450
• Sensodyne Instant effect
• INNOVA Intensive restoration and brightening of enamel

When they talk about a beautiful smile, they mean, of course, beautiful and healthy teeth. We all go to the dentist when caries or other dental problems appear. But how to properly care for your teeth at home? There are hundreds of toothpastes on the shelves of stores and pharmacies: which one should you choose? Let's listen to the opinions of dentists.

Let's start with the fact that toothpaste has several tasks: protecting teeth and gums from plaque, preventing caries, freshening breath, whitening teeth, reducing their sensitivity, and even treating some dental diseases.

Therefore, the main rule when choosing a toothpaste is to take into account your own needs, that is, the toothpaste is selected individually, to suit your problems with teeth and gums. Your dentist will help you with this.

How effective are whitening toothpastes?

It should be noted that not all shades of teeth whiten equally well. You will be able to notice a truly noticeable visible “before and after” effect only if the enamel of your teeth initially has a yellowish tint. Teeth of gray and brownish tones will simply be impossible to whiten with toothpastes (we are talking specifically about the brown tint of the enamel, and not about the brown pigment deposit on its surface). In this case, only professional whitening, for example, using the Zoom method, can help.

If you need the most effective whitening toothpaste, reviews say that the maximum whitening effect that you can achieve using toothpastes is 2 shades on the VITA scale (Fig. 2-3). The best effect can be achieved by whitening toothpaste with carbamide peroxide, but you should not trust advertising that says that any toothpaste can whiten your teeth by 3-4 or more tones (shades). This is simply impossible.

Teeth shades according to VITA scale –

If pastes with carbamide peroxide are considered the most effective, then how effective is an abrasive whitening paste - reviews say that such pastes allow you to lighten teeth by an average of 1 tone on the VITA scale. To get a more significant result, it is advisable to combine pastes, for example, use an abrasive bleaching paste for the 1st month, and use a paste with carbamide peroxide for the next 2 months.

How to choose toothpaste

All toothpastes can be divided into two main groups:

1. Hygienic.
   They cleanse the oral cavity, refresh and mineralize tooth enamel.
2. Medicinal.
   Such toothpastes, in addition to cleansing the oral cavity, also help get rid of some problems with teeth or gums.

Medicinal toothpastes should be selected according to the following criteria:

• increased sensitivity of teeth - the paste should contain special mineral complexes (primarily fluoride);
• gum disease, bleeding - look for antiseptic and anti-inflammatory components that neutralize bacteria;
• for the prevention or removal of plaque and tartar - toothpaste must contain mineral complexes, abrasive components and plant enzymes;
• toothpaste against caries - these are mineral complexes, various extracts (for example, grape seeds, etc.);
• Teeth whitening pastes help clear teeth of pigmentation and return them to their original shade.

But do not forget that toothpaste is not a treatment, but home care, which is needed as a prevention and control of existing dental problems.

Read also How to treat stomatitis: 7 effective drugs The best drugs for the treatment of stomatitis in adults and children.

Popular versions and hypotheses - the main myths about multi-colored marks on tubes

In an attempt to unravel the meaning of the multi-colored stripes on tubes of toothpaste, consumers came up with many different versions and hypotheses. It must be said right away that these are just guesses, popular misconceptions that do not correspond to reality. Let's first look at the common versions, and therefore move on to the question of what the markings on the tube actually mean.

Composition of contents – safety of active components

This is one of the most common hypotheses. Its essence is that the strip on the packaging draws the buyer’s attention to the presence or absence of natural ingredients in the product. There is an opinion among the population that the color of the mark can have the following meanings:

• a black mark indicates that the composition of the product includes only artificial components, and there are no natural ingredients in it,
• blue indicates the presence of natural ingredients in the product, but their content does not exceed 20%,
• the red marking indicates that the product is half natural, that is, the content of natural components reaches 50%,
• green - a guarantee that the product is completely organic, and only plant ingredients were used in its production.

There is a myth that the color of the stripes indicates the safety of the active ingredients.
It is not known where this rumor came from, but it has nothing to do with the truth. To make sure the composition is safe, pay attention to the list of ingredients on the package, including the small print.

Recommendations for duration of use

Another theory suggests that the stripe on the seam of the tube is directly related to recommendations regarding the duration of use of the product. If preventive pastes are suitable for daily use, then therapeutic and whitening pastes should be used in time-limited courses. This is the gradation proposed by the hypothesis:

• blue mark – prophylactic for daily use,
• green – the paste helps strengthen dental tissues, but can be used for no longer than a month,
• red - the composition is saturated with potent medicinal components, so you can brush your teeth with it for no longer than a week,
• black – a whitening agent, it is recommended to use as needed and in short courses so as not to damage the enamel.

There is a misconception that the color indicates the duration of brushing your teeth.
There is no connection between the color of the strip and the purpose of the cosmetic product. In fact, this label does not carry any useful information for the consumer.

The presence of dyes in the composition

If you believe this interpretation, then the green stripe means that the composition is completely natural, and any other color indicates the opposite. Some adherents of this theory argue that a red, black, blue or even white stripe on toothpaste is a clear sign that the product contains artificial colors. Perhaps this is another trick of marketers who are well aware of the strong association of the color green with nature and natural ingredients.

Some people believe that the colored lines indicate the naturalness of the ingredients.

Efficacy in the treatment of periodontal disease

Another fairly popular misconception is that the color of the strip on the packaging has a direct connection with the properties of the paste, in particular its effectiveness in treating periodontal disease. The gist is this: a black mark indicates the absence of any components necessary to treat the disease, a red mark means the composition contains chemicals that meet local quality standards, a green mark means the composition is completely safe. The connection between these definitions is difficult to logic, but the version still gained popularity.

Degree of abrasiveness

According to another theory, the markings indicate the degree of abrasiveness of the paste. Thus, black, blue, and sometimes brown colors indicate that the composition contains coarse abrasive particles in high concentration. You can only brush your teeth with this product for a short time - for noticeable whitening of the enamel.

“A work colleague once blurted out to me that the colored green tail on a tube of toothpaste means that it contains natural ingredients and is therefore suitable for sensitive teeth. Well, I bought it on my own. I think it’s great, and it also has a whitening effect. As a result, the enamel began to react even more strongly to everything. Then smarter people explained to me that all this was nonsense! There is no connection at all!”

Irka!13, from correspondence on the woman.ru forum

Red markings indicate the presence of abrasive components, but in small quantities. Green is a sign that the composition does not contain abrasive particles, and the product can be safely used every day without fear of its negative effect on the condition of the enamel, even with hyperesthesia, that is, its increased sensitivity.

There is an opinion that the stripes indicate the degree of abrasiveness of the product

Territorial classification

There is also an opinion: marks on the tube indicate the presence and concentration of petroleum products, and also indicate the country where the composition formula was developed. According to this theory, the black mark indicates a high petroleum content and is usually used in Asian countries as well as third world countries. The blue stripe indicates a lower content of harmful substances, and is more often found on products of American brands. Red and green marks indicate low content or complete absence of petroleum products. Such products are produced in European countries.

Cost of components included

The last hypothesis on our list states that the color of the strip directly indicates the quality and cost of the components. If expensive, high-quality ingredients were used in production, there will be a red stripe on the tube. Blue indicates the presence of components of satisfactory quality, black indicates a cheap and low-quality composition.

Parodontax Classic

Parodontax is a therapeutic toothpaste for gum problems. If you notice that your gums are bleeding while brushing or flossing, don't wait to see your dentist. He will find out the cause and recommend toothpaste to strengthen the gums - in particular, Parodontax. This paste effectively cleans plaque along the gums, making them adhere more tightly to the teeth. Parodontax paste contains sodium bicarbonate, which helps in the prevention and treatment of gum diseases. But remember that the course of treatment with Parodontax paste is no more than two weeks.

Parodontax Classic

GlaxoSmithKline, GSK, UK

This toothpaste effectively fights bleeding and gum inflammation - one of the first signs of a disease that can lead to tooth loss.
Its unique formula contains mineral salt bicarbonate and extracts of chamomile, echinacea, sage, ratania, myrrh. from 66

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What is better to choose to restore gums?

Brushing teeth with damaged gums is necessary only with a properly selected product. Factors that provoke damage to the mucous membrane:

• Mechanical.
• Bacterial.
• Hereditary.

Damaged tissues may begin to bleed, become inflamed, and hypersensitivity often occurs. Pastes should have an antibacterial and healing effect. Some products also perform the function of preventing the formation of tartar. Below we look at the best options:

• Forest balm.
• Parodontol Active.
• ROX Bionics.
• Splat "Lavandasept".
• President Exclusive.

Biorepair Fast Sensitive Repair

This is a low-abrasive toothpaste made in Italy, which contains zinc-substituted hydroxyapatite, an analogue of a substance found in bones and teeth. If you regularly brush your teeth with Biorepair Fast Sensitive Repair paste, you can quickly restore tooth enamel and make it more resistant to various damages. Biorepair Fast Sensitive Repair eliminates increased sensitivity of teeth. And although this paste is low abrasive, it perfectly removes plaque. Biorepair Fast Sensitive Repair saturates the enamel with minerals and is free of parabens and SLS. Among the disadvantages are the cost and the lack of fluoride in the composition.

Biorepair Fast Sensitive Repair

Biorepair, Italy

Protects against the development of caries, mechanical damage, as well as the appearance of erosion on the enamel.
Creates a protective barrier that prevents the formation of plaque and tartar. Ideal for those with sensitive teeth. Helps in maintaining natural whiteness. They become strong, sensitivity decreases, and a healthy shine appears. from 368

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Gel

Perioe Pumping Citrus

pros

• Very convenient to use
• Foams well
• Pleasant taste
• Good dosage system
• Rich citrus aroma

Minuses

• Expensive

From 590 ₽

Pasta in a very unusual package. It is a soft gel that effectively cleanses teeth of plaque. Special bubbles envelop each tooth, making it less accessible to various infections or caries. The convenient bottle holds 3 regular tubes.

Colgate Total 12 Professional Cleansing (Gel)

pros

• Soft structure
• Effectiveness
• Reduced fluoride content
• Refreshing taste

Minuses

• Does not include whitening ingredients

From 123 ₽

Convenient gel paste for everyday use. It is one of the best in its price category. Perfect for both home use and travel. Provides stable oral protection for a long time. Breaks down plaque and eliminates signs of gum inflammation.

SPLAT Special Zero Balance

pros

• Suitable for people prone to allergies
• Has no taste or smell
• Keeps your breath fresh for a long time
• Cleans well

Minuses

• May not be as effective as some analogues

From 230 ₽

Hypoallergenic toothpaste, which does not contain any essential oils, fragrances, or other similar components. Contains natural antiseptics that block the possibility of pathogenic bacteria. Counteracts caries and periodontitis.

Elmex Protection against caries

Thanks to the presence of amino fluoride in the composition, Elmex toothpaste protects teeth from caries, remineralizes, reduces solubility and strengthens enamel. "Elmex Protection against caries." After brushing your teeth with Elmex paste, a stable layer of calcium fluoride is formed on the surface of the teeth - it is this barrier that protects the teeth from the negative effects of acid.

Elmex Protection against caries

Elmex

Colgate Elmex Anti-Caries Toothpaste with highly effective amino fluoride remineralizes, strengthens enamel and protects teeth from caries.
Designed for daily oral hygiene to provide long-term protection against caries, reduce solubility and strengthen tooth enamel. The amino fluoride contained in Colgate Elmex Anti-Caries Toothpaste forms a stable layer of calcium fluoride on tooth surfaces that provides long-lasting, highly effective protection against acid attack. from 174

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How to brush your teeth correctly

Photos from open sources

Advice for consumers

• When choosing oral care products, consider the condition of the teeth, gums, oral mucosa, and the strength and density of the enamel.
• Develop the healthy habit of brushing your teeth twice a day: in the morning and in the evening.
• When eating foods containing acids: fruits, juices and other acidic foods, brushing your teeth is necessary no earlier than half an hour after a meal. Otherwise, the risk of enamel damage increases significantly.
• To properly brush your teeth, you need to spend at least five minutes. Otherwise, it will not be possible to ensure maximum effectiveness of the protective and cleansing components of the toothpaste.

ROCS PRO Moisturizing Moisturizing

ROCS PRO Moisturizing Moisturizing toothpaste contains bromelain, a plant enzyme that effectively removes pigmented plaque on enamel and prevents its formation. This toothpaste is recommended for those who suffer from excessive dry mouth. Xerostomia (this is what dry mouth is called) contributes to the appearance of caries, causes problems with gums, stomatitis, etc. Due to insufficient saliva production, the mineralization of teeth also worsens. The special composition ROCS PRO Moisturizing improves the situation with moisture in the mouth, stimulating the secretion of saliva, and forms a special protective film on the mucous membrane. This low-abrasive toothpaste contains no surfactants or aggressive substances. But in general, some ROCS toothpastes may contain SLS, so read the ingredients carefully.

ROCS PRO Moisturizing Moisturizing

ROCS, Russia

Professional toothpaste ROCS “PRO Moisturizing.
Moisturizing" is designed specifically to solve and prevent problems such as periodic or constant dryness in the mouth. The unique composition of this toothpaste contains a special aromatic composition that gently stimulates saliva production. This allows you to provide a greater level of comfort and delicately resolve the problem, regardless of the causes of dryness. In addition, ROCS “PRO Moisturizing. Moisturizing" fully performs therapeutic and preventive functions, helping to maintain a high level of oral hygiene. The paste protects against caries, ensures fresh breath, normalizes the microflora of the oral cavity, etc.; does not contain fluorine, sodium laurisulfate, parabens. from 112

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The best whitening toothpaste for smokers –

As a dentist, I can tell you about an alternative whitening option that is especially suitable for smokers, strong tea or coffee drinkers, as well as patients with rapid formation of bacterial and pigmented plaque. This method will be much more effective than using conventional abrasive whitening toothpastes - even the best ones rated above. It will work for you if you have an Oral-b electric toothbrush (or if you are ready to buy one).

The working head of an electric toothbrush is exactly like the head that a dentist uses to polish teeth. In standard mode, the nozzle makes not only more than 8,000 rotating movements per minute, but also at least 20,000 pulsating movements. The pulsations allow you to loosen plaque, which is then removed with rotational movements. Patients using Oral-B electric toothbrushes develop much less plaque or tartar on their teeth than when brushing with a regular manual toothbrush.

Electric brush Oral-B –

You will whiten your teeth much faster if you use an abrasive whitening toothpaste with an electric toothbrush. Those. you are essentially receiving a dentist's tool that the latter uses for professional oral hygiene in the dental office. But! There are several rules here. For example, if you use toothpaste with RDA 100, then you can safely use it 2 times a day for 1-2 months, using an electric brush in the standard “Daily Cleaning” mode (from 8000 to 10,000 rotational, + 20,000 pulsating movements).

If you use a more abrasive toothpaste with an RDA 120 along with an electric brush (for example, LACALUT White or PRESIDENT PROFI Smokers toothpastes), we would recommend using such toothpastes only once a day for 3-4 weeks, or 2 once a day, but not more than 2 weeks. This treatment will significantly increase the effectiveness of removing moderately pronounced pigmented plaque from teeth, but will not cope with strong pigmented plaque and densely attached mineralized plaque (small tartar).

The most effective way is

The most effective way is to use a professional teeth cleaning product that is used by a dentist during professional oral hygiene. The paste is called Detartrine Z, although there is also regular Detartrine (which is different in that it does not contain zircon granules and is therefore slightly less effective). You can buy it in online stores, sometimes you can even find it on Ozon. These are professional pastes that can not only perfectly remove pigment plaque, but also cope with even small tartar.

Polishing pastes of the “Detartrine” series (France) –

The volume of the paste is 45 g, and this amount will last you for at least a year or two, given that you won’t have to use it more than once every couple of months. Cost from 2000 to 3000 rubles. The following is very important: this professional teeth polishing paste should and can only be used at low rotation speeds of the electric toothbrush head (for example, in the “for sensitive teeth” or “polishing/whitening” modes). There are no pulsating movements in these modes. In addition, it is best to use the “Precision Clean” type of nozzles - see photo above.

Detartrine Z paste contains zircon grains, which very well remove even a pronounced layer of pigmented plaque, and even small hard dental deposits. This is an ideal option for smokers and those who drink strong tea or coffee. But if you have a very thick layer of pigmented plaque or massive tartar, then such home whitening will not help you and you will need to see a dentist in any case.

A less effective way is to use a regular whitening toothpaste with an abrasiveness of 150-200 RDA instead of this polishing paste (for example, “PRESIDENT Black” or “PRESIDENT PROFI PLUS White Plus”). This can be done no more than once a month and only at low speeds of an electric brush - either in the “For sensitive teeth” or “Polishing/whitening” mode. More information about how the procedure is carried out is in the article at the link below.

→ Removing pigmented plaque at home

Curaprox Enzycal 1450

Therapeutic and prophylactic toothpaste Curaprox Enzycal 1450 effectively fights caries and saturates the enamel with minerals. The paste contains substances that improve the state of local immunity, destroy pathogenic bacteria, clean teeth as much as possible and remineralize enamel. Curaprox Enzycal 1450 toothpaste contains 0.145 ppm of fluoride (bioavailable) - this, according to WHO recommendations, is enough to protect teeth from caries (and fluoride is the most reliable method of caries prevention). Curaprox Enzycal 1450 toothpaste contains special enzymes that improve the protective properties of saliva and eliminate pigmentation on teeth. The paste does not contain parabens and SLS, and also serves as a prevention of oral dysbacteriosis. Among the disadvantages are the price of the paste and the presence of cow's milk proteins, so allergy sufferers need to be careful.

Curaprox Enzycal 1450

CURADEN, Switzerland

CURAPROX Enzycal 1450 is a therapeutic and prophylactic toothpaste to strengthen enamel.
It supports local immunity of the oral cavity, enhances the antibacterial, remineralizing, cleansing effect of saliva. Suitable for daily cleaning, restoring enamel after whitening and protecting teeth from caries while wearing braces. from 411

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Which product to choose - the best manufacturers

According to dentists, the best toothpaste is the one that fully meets the needs of a particular person. Modern manufacturers have significantly expanded the “functionality” of their products, and now it is not just a means for cleansing plaque, but also an indispensable assistant in the fight against inflammatory processes, hyperesthesia (increased sensitivity of enamel), initial carious processes and many other problems. This is unconditional progress, but along with it another problem has appeared: an incorrectly selected product may not only not bring the desired result, but also cause harm.

What types of toothpastes there are and for what purposes they are intended will be discussed in the next section. But first, it’s worth identifying the primary guideline when choosing a good product – the manufacturer and its reputation. Experts recommend giving preference to brands that have been on the market for a long time and during this time have managed to prove their effectiveness and safety.

In fact, there are quite a few good companies, but Colgate, Blend-a-Med, and Aquafresh are considered priorities. These are brands under which a wide range of different oral care products are produced. Numerous clinical studies have repeatedly proven the high quality and effectiveness of their products. The production process in such corporations is strictly controlled, involves the use of the latest technologies and developments, and the use of high-quality and safe raw materials. These manufacturers have been trusted by both professional dentists and ordinary users for many years.

The best pasta is the one that fully meets the needs of a particular person.

Sensodyne Instant effect

Sensodyne “Instant Effect” medicated toothpaste has a pleasant taste and effectively combats the problem of increased sensitivity of tooth enamel. To get rid of tooth sensitivity, dentists recommend not only brushing your teeth with Sensodyne toothpaste in the morning and evening, but also periodically applying the paste after brushing so that it penetrates deeper into the enamel. Sensodyne gently cleanses teeth and helps restore the oral mucosa. According to reviews from those who use Sensodyne paste, the first improvements occur literally on the third to fifth day of use. Toothpaste contains the optimal level of fluoride (0.145 ppm). Sensodyne can be used by children from 12 years of age to prevent caries. The price of this paste is quite affordable. There are few disadvantages: the paste is runny and does not form enough foam.

Sensodyne Instant effect

GlaxoSmithKline, France

Sensodyne Instant Effect Toothpaste is uniquely formulated to rapidly seal the dentinal tubules and is intended for patients diagnosed with dentinal hypersensitivity who require rapid symptom relief.
from 159

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For bleeding gums

SPLAT Professional Active

pros

• Low abrasiveness
• Allows you to brush your teeth more often
• Whitens quickly
• Pleasant taste
• Cheapness

Minuses

• Sometimes efficiency may be lacking

From 50 ₽

A gum-strengthening paste that allows you not to think about the possibility of excessive injury. It has a very soft gel structure, which is gentle on teeth and gums. Reliable prevention of a number of dental diseases, including caries and periodontitis.

Lacalut Active Herbal

pros

• Pleasant taste
• Soft consistency
• Ensures gum healing
• Eliminates bleeding

Minuses

• Has no whitening effect

From 200 ₽

Preventive toothpaste for gums, based on a special recipe. Quickly and effectively eliminates bleeding and inflammation of the gums, restoring the health of the human oral cavity. The medicinal herbs contained in the composition provide a high level of protection against various diseases.

PresiDENT Active

pros

• Easily treats bleeding gums
• Cleans well
• Doesn't foam
• Low abrasiveness

Minuses

• Specific taste

From 180 ₽

A remedy for bleeding gums, which contains specially selected abrasives. They are soft enough not to injure the gums even more. But they are also tough enough for high-quality plaque removal. Under the influence of active components, enamel becomes stronger and lighter.

INNOVA Intensive restoration and brightening of enamel

This toothpaste is suitable for those with sensitive teeth. “INNOVA Intensive restoration and lightening of enamel” contains nanohydroxyapatite, calcis component, fluoride, and grape seed extract, which most effectively protect against caries. And the plant-derived component Tannase gently whitens teeth by dissolving pigmented plaque on the enamel. INNOVA toothpaste perfectly relieves tooth sensitivity, seals dentinal tubules, saturates the enamel with minerals, strontium salts effectively solve the problem of sensitivity, penetrating deep inside the tooth. INNOVA, in addition to remineralizing teeth, prevents bleeding gums. This toothpaste contains no SLS, chlorhexidine peroxide, or aggressive abrasives. Among the disadvantages are the high cost and not a pronounced mint taste.

INNOVA Intensive restoration and brightening of enamel

Pastes for strengthening gums

Toothpastes aimed at preventing and reducing periodontal inflammatory processes reduce bleeding gums, help strengthen them, have an astringent effect, and also destroy harmful microbes. They most often contain antibacterial substances, for example with chlorhexidine, as in Curaprox ADS 712 paste, together with plant extracts that have an anti-inflammatory effect, such as edelweiss and echinacea in the SWISS SMILE vitamin herbal paste or witch hazel and calendula in the Plus Parodontgel BioRepair paste. Some of them also contain chlorophyll and vitamin E. All of these substances have a beneficial effect on gum tissue, accelerating the healing process and the formation of new cells. Such pastes are recommended for diseases of stomatitis, gingivitis and periodontitis.

Toothpaste Curasept ADS 712 CURAPROX

Pastes that do not cause allergic reactions

Modern manufacturers who produce hygiene products use advanced technologies, which makes it possible to develop products that have a powerful effect. Such pastes contain active, potent ingredients and are allergens. To avoid allergic reactions, special products are produced that do not contain aggressive substances. Instead, manufacturers add exclusively natural substances. In the ranking of the best funds of this kind:

• Weleda "With calendula".
• ROKS for children.
• Splat Zero Balance.

Additional selection criteria

• Expiration dates are a less serious, but important nuance. Always check the manufacturing date and expiration date; you may not be poisoned by expired toothpaste, but its effectiveness will be reduced.
• RDA value - this value indicates the amount of abrasive materials in the paste. The higher this indicator, the more thoroughly it cleans the tooth surface, but also damages the enamel layer. If you are not buying a special whitening paste, make sure that this indicator does not exceed 100 for an adult toothpaste and 50 for a child’s toothpaste.