It is a substance used with a toothbrush to remove bacterial plaque, debris from the gingiva, and for applying specific agents to the tooth surfaces for preventive or therapeutic purposes.

The Egyptians made a tooth powder in 5000 BC. It was composed of powdered ashes of hooves, myrrh, powdered and burnt eggshells, and pumice. Later, the Greeks and the Romans improved it by adding abrasives such as bones and oyster shells. Toothpastes or powders came into use in the 19^th century. They were mostly homemade. It consisted of chalk, pulverized brick, or salt. In 1880 toothpastes were sold in collapsible tube. The idea was taken from painters using paint from tubes.

The toothpaste is made up of water (20-40 %) and of variety of components mainly of abrasives, fluoride, and detergents.

This scale rates dental products numerically, the higher the number, the higher the abrasivity.

Flavorants are used for better taste and for encouraging use of product flavorants. Mainly peppermint, spearmint, wintergreen, etc.

We can find other components that influence type of toothpaste and its purpose of using.

Toothpaste for prevention gingivitis. It contains antibacterial agents (triclosan or zinc chloride).

Dentifrices are used for preventing dental carries. Xylitol is usually used.

When there is a necessity of reformation of enamel we can use a toothpaste with remineralizers (calcium phosphates).

Children toothpastes usually contain sweet flavour (fruit or bubble gum). There is the risk of swallowing of this toothpaste and intake a large amount of fluoride!

Whitening toothpastes may include abrasives to gently polish the teeth, or additives such as sodium tripolyphospate to break down stains, or peroxide again for removing stains. All these toothpastes cannot change the natural colour of teeth or reverse discoloration. There is risk of permanent reduction of the strength of the teeth because a protective outer layer of enamel is taken away.