Dental Materials: toothpastes and mouthwashes Flashcards
(29 cards)
What are the key functions of modern toothpaste?
Remineralisation, plaque removal, taste improvement, moisture retention, and foaming.
What are the main components of modern mouthwash?
Water-glycerine base, sweeteners, surfactant, preservative, colourant, flavour, and fluoride.
What is the most common fluoride compound in toothpaste?
Sodium fluoride (NaF).
How does fluoride protect teeth?
It replaces OH⁻ in hydroxyapatite to form fluorapatite, which is more acid-resistant.
What is the function of calcium fluoride (CaF₂) in plaque?
Acts as a fluoride reservoir for long-term protection.
What is triclosan’s mode of action?
It increases bacterial cell wall permeability.
What is chlorhexidine’s mode of action?
It is bacteriostatic and bactericidal by disrupting cell membranes.
How does stannous ion prevent biofilm formation?
It inhibits EPS production.
Which toothpaste surfactant has antimicrobial properties?
Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS).
Which ingredients are effective against anaerobic biofilms?
Arginine and zinc (Dual Zinc Arginine, DZA).
What is the primary role of surfactants in toothpaste?
To create foam, stabilise emulsions, and solubilise hydrophobic molecules.
What is the most common surfactant in toothpaste?
Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS).
What oral side effect is associated with SLS?
Can cause aphthous ulcers in sensitive individuals.
What are common abrasives in toothpaste?
Aluminium oxide, calcium carbonate, pyrophosphate, silica.
What does Relative Dentin Abrasion (RDA) measure?
The abrasiveness of toothpaste.
What is the most common binder/thickener in toothpaste?
Sodium carboxymethylcellulose (CMC).
What is the function of thickeners like CMC?
To prevent phase separation and provide consistency.
What ingredient is both a thickener and saliva stimulant?
Cocamidopropyl betaine – may be controversial.
What is the most common preservative in toothpaste?
Benzyl alcohol.
What is the role of preservatives in toothpaste?
Prevent microbial growth and extend shelf life.
Why are humectants used in toothpaste?
They bind water to keep the paste moist and can have bacteriostatic properties.
Name two common humectants.
Glycerin and sorbitol.
What does ‘Aroma’ mean on a toothpaste label?
Flavouring agents – usually mint or sweetened compounds.
What is Cl77891 and its role?
Titanium dioxide – provides white colour in toothpaste.
