Decoding the colour codes of toothpaste: What do they mean?

New Delhi,UPDATED: Jun 26, 2024 12:27 IST

Caring for your teeth is essential for everyone, which is why the toothpaste aisle presents numerous options to cater to diverse oral health needs. When choosing toothpaste, factors like ingredients, expiration dates, health benefits, and sometimes flavour play significant roles.

Phrases such as 'Whitening,' 'Anticavity,' and 'Tartar Control,' are often featured prominently on toothpaste packaging.

THE MYTH:

There's a widely circulated misconception regarding the colour codes on toothpaste tubes. According to this false tip, colours like green (all natural), blue (natural plus medicine), red (natural and chemical), or black (pure chemical) denote toothpaste's ingredients. However, this claim lacks validity.

THE TRUTH:

In reality, the coloured bar on toothpaste tubes serves a practical manufacturing purpose rather than indicating ingredients. These marks assist machinery during packaging processes, using light beam sensors for accurate cutting, folding, or sealing.

TOOTHPASTE INGREDIENTS:

To ascertain what's in your toothpaste, reading the printed ingredient list on the tube is crucial. Typical ingredients include:

- Humectants like glycerol or sorbitol
- Abrasives such as calcium carbonate or silica
- Binding agents like carboxymethyl cellulose
- Sweeteners like sodium saccharin
- Flavouring agents (e.g., peppermint or cinnamon)
- Surfactants for foaming action (e.g., sodium lauryl sulfate)
- Fluoride (e.g., sodium fluoride) for cavity prevention

NATURAL VS CHEMICAL

Even if toothpaste colours did signify ingredients, distinguishing between 'natural' and 'chemical' is oversimplified. All substances, including natural ones, are composed of chemicals.

CHOOSING RIGHT:

For informed choices, consider speciality toothpaste:

- Whitening toothpastes contains peroxides.
- Toothpaste for sensitive teeth includes desensitising agents.
- Children's toothpaste has reduced fluoride content.
- Tartar control toothpaste may feature zinc citrate or triclosan.
- Smokers' toothpastes use stronger abrasives.
- Fluoride-free toothpastes cater to specific preferences but lack cavity protection.
- Natural toothpaste may avoid fluoride and sodium lauryl sulphate, using alternative ingredients.

Understanding the role of toothpaste colours dispels myths and empowers consumers to make informed decisions based on actual ingredients and intended benefits. Whether prioritising whitening, sensitivity relief, or natural formulations, reading labels and looking for the ADA Seal of Acceptance ensures both safety and effectiveness in maintaining oral health.