History

• Toothpaste has been around in one form or another since around the 4th century C.E. This is when the oldest-known reference to toothpaste was found. It was Italian in nature and called for mint leaves, salt, pepper and iris flowers. Toothpaste was used in ancient Greece and became popular through Spain in the 9th century when various forms were invented. Toothpaste was first packaged and sold in collapsible tubes in 1896 and started to be made of modern ingredients such as baking soda in 1900. Today, there are many different kinds of toothpaste, some advertising tooth health and strength, others whitening abilities and still others the use of all-natural ingredients.
  
  

Function

• Toothpaste is stored in collapsible tubes so that it can be squeezed out when used. It is meant to be applied to a toothbrush and scrubbed directly into the teeth and gums. The movement of the toothbrush across teeth will cause the toothpaste to spread and foam up. As it mixes with saliva, it becomes thinner and is able to get in between teeth much easier because of this. The toothpaste will strengthen enamel of the teeth and deposit fluoride or a similar cleanser to kill bacteria in the gums.
  
  

Types

• Toothpaste comes in a number of different types these days, each having a special mix of ingredients that cause them to have differing effects. Some toothpaste is meant to specifically target bacteria. These are generally a bit harsher because of the added elements that attack plaque and gingivitis. Other toothpaste focuses more on whitening. These do not always have such a strong taste and are better suited for reducing the yellowing of teeth. Most toothpaste has a mixture of varied uses, though they are labeled and advertised for one specific function of toothpaste.
  
  

Time Frame

• Toothpaste is always an effective tool to fighting germs in the teeth and gum, but there are certain times when it works better than others. These are generally right after a meal, or within an hour of the last meal eaten. During this time, the food you have eaten hasn't had a chance to embed itself in the gums, and sugars and starches have not yet been absorbed where they can do damage. Always remember to brush your teeth after a meal, and you will have a healthy mouthful of teeth and gums.
  
  

Warning

• Toothpaste is not meant to be swallowed, except for special kinds used for animals. This is because toothpaste is somewhat toxic, especially the types that contain fluoride. Swallowing fluoride toothpaste can cause stomach problems, nausea and diarrhea. If large amounts of toothpaste are swallowed at once, then the poison control center closest to you should be contacted. Young children should also not use fluoride toothpaste because it can alter and negatively affect the growth and formation of permanent teeth.