Tooth Powder Outperforms Toothpaste in Stain Removal and Plaque Control
Two recent studies have revealed an unexpected twist in oral care: tooth powder outperforms toothpaste in removing surface stains and controlling plaque-induced gingivitis. This finding has sparked interest in this age-old product, which predates toothpaste.
Tooth powder, once the primary means of teeth cleaning, has seen a resurgence in popularity. It was the norm during the 19th century, with users mixing ingredients like baking soda, salt, and activated charcoal to create their own powder. The process involves adding water to the powder before brushing.
The shift towards toothpaste began around 1850, with products initially sold in jars. Early toothpaste formulations contained unusual ingredients such as chalk and soap, with fluoride being introduced much later in 1914. Today, both toothpaste and tooth powder can be found in stores and online, with some tooth powders containing fluoride.
While tooth powder excels in stain removal and plaque control, it lacks ingredients to tackle intrinsic stains and doesn't typically contain fluoride. This is unlike toothpaste, which has been awarded the ADA Seal of Acceptance for brands like Crest and Colgate. However, both products can contain controversial ingredients like triclosan and sodium lauryl sulfate.
The recent studies highlight the effectiveness of tooth powder in stain removal and plaque control. Despite its advantages, tooth powder may not provide the same level of protection against intrinsic stains and cavities as toothpaste. Consumers should consider their specific oral health needs when choosing between toothpaste and tooth powder.
