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Updated: Jun 10, 2026

Semi-Automated Planimetric Quantification of Dental Plaque Using an Intraoral Fluorescence Camera
Published on: January 27, 2023
Dentifrices--an update
Robin Davies1, Crispian Scully, Antony J Preston
1National Fluoride Information Centre, Coupland 111 Building, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL.
Modern toothpastes containing fluoride salts effectively reduce tooth decay. Other formulations with ingredients like triclosan improve plaque control, gingivitis, and periodontal health, while also addressing calculus, stains, sensitivity, and bad breath.
Area of Science:
- Dental Science
- Pharmacology
- Public Health
Background:
- Toothpastes are a primary vehicle for delivering oral hygiene agents.
- Evidence for the efficacy of various toothpaste ingredients has evolved significantly.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review published scientific evidence on the efficacy of modern dentifrices.
- To assess the potential for adverse reactions associated with toothpaste use.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of publications indexed on MEDLINE since 1990, with inclusion of some pre-1990 references.
- Scrutiny of studies for scientific and trial data on dentifrice efficacy and adverse events.
Main Results:
- Fluoride salts in dentifrices are proven effective in caries reduction.
- Toothpastes with triclosan demonstrate efficacy in plaque and gingivitis control.
- Other formulations effectively reduce calculus, extrinsic stain, dentine sensitivity, and oral malodor.
Conclusions:
- Modern toothpastes offer a range of proven oral health benefits to consumers.
- Adverse reactions to toothpastes are rare but can manifest as allergic responses or oral lesions.
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