Tooth Powder vs Toothpaste: Which Is Better?
Toothpaste is better than tooth powder in terms of convenience and portability, though neither of them are as good as toothpaste tablets.
While both tooth powder and toothpaste can effectively contribute to your oral health routine, toothpaste is often more convenient and practical in everyday settings.
Further, toothpaste may be safer for your teeth as it is formulated with gentle ingredients like sodium bicarbonate to polish your teeth and remove surface stains, whereas tooth powder often contain abrasive ingredient like egg shell which can harm your enamel.
Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about toothpaste and tooth powders.
What is toothpowder?
Traditional toothpaste powder, more correctly known as "toothpowder", existed before toothpaste was invented.
In the 1800s, it was simply a combination of baking soda, salt, burnt eggshells, or chalk to remove mouth odor and clean your teeth.
Today, you'll find that there have been some interesting advancements in oral care products. In fact, modern tooth powder is simply dehydrated toothpaste that has been powdered.
What is toothpaste?
Toothpaste is a gel or paste form that comes in different formulations.
They have been a mainstay in the industry not only for their essential role in maintaining oral hygiene but also for the diverse options available in the market.
Typically, toothpaste contains fluoride which is particularly beneficial for preventing tooth decay and strengthening tooth enamel.
However, studies suggest that toothpaste formulated with nano hydroxyapatite may be effective in addressing dental issues while posing fewer potential risks for systemic toxicity than fluoride, especially for those with sensitive teeth.
Comparison: Toothpaste vs. Toothpowder
Both toothpowder and toothpaste allow you to maintain oral hygiene by effectively cleaning your teeth and gums.
However, there are still some differences between the two, including how to use them and the efficacy of each.
How to Use Toothpaste
To use toothpaste:
- Rinse your mouth with water
- Put a pea-sized amount of toothpaste in your brush
- Gently brush your teeth in circular motions, covering all surfaces.
- Then spit the toothpaste out and no need to rinse.
It's easy as 1-2-3!
They're perfectly designed to address various oral health needs, providing you not only cleanliness but also protection against common dental issues.
How to Use Toothpowder
Manufactured tooth powders usually come in glass jars or tin cans.
To use, shake the dental powder container over your wet toothbrush. You can also sprinkle the powder with your fingers onto your toothbrush. Then, proceed to brush as you regularly would.
Although the steps are short and simple, using the powder can get messy.
In fact, the powder gets all over your sink and clothes, and product gets wasted every time you use it.
Efficacy
- Remineralize teeth
- Minimize teeth sensitivity
- Remove plaque and bacteria
- Reduce periodontal diseases
- Brighten teeth
Toothpowder
Unfortunately, there isn't much research on tooth powder's effectiveness.
However, a study in 2017 suggests that toothpowders are more effective than traditional toothpaste in plaque control and gingivitis.
An analysis in 2013 also concluded that toothpowders were as effective as toothpaste in controlling plaque, removing stains, and reducing gingivitis.
Another study concluded otherwise: toothpowders were inferior to toothpaste in plaque removal.
Moreover, most tooth powder formulations don't contain fluoride or any type of cavity-fighting ingredient, If cavities are a concern, you may be better off sticking to toothpaste.
Toothpaste
Toothpaste has become popular because it's great for people always looking for convenience and effectiveness.Toothpaste such as NOBS also contain ingredients such as nano hydroxyapatite, which is excellent in:
- remineralizing teeth
- reducing plaque build up
- prevent tooth decay
- and reducing teeth sensitivity
In fact, nano hydroxyapatite is one of the most studied minerals in oral care as it shows remarkable effects on remineralizing the demineralized enamel and penetrating the dentin to reduce sensitivity.
Not only is nano hydroxyapatite safe, it is also equally as effective as fluoride.
Shelf-Life
Toothpaste typically has a stable shelf-life of up to two years, while tooth powder, due to its dry composition, may have a longer shelf-life under appropriate storage conditions.
However, you can consider using nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste tablets for a longer shelf-life while being eco-friendly, mess-free, and convenient to travel.
Tooth Powder vs Toothpaste: Which Works Best for Whitening?
Tooth powder and toothpaste both aim to whiten teeth. However, their methods and effectiveness differ.
Tooth powder is usually more abrasive and exfoliates to remove surface stains.
On the other hand, toothpaste often contains ingredients like nano hydroxyapatite, hydrogen peroxide, or fluoride to effectively lighten stains without any harsh effect on your teeth.
For those seeking a natural approach, tooth powder may be preferable. Meanwhile, toothpaste provides a convenient and scientifically formulated option that can polish teeth effectively.
What's right for kids to use?
Further, tooth powder can also be too abrasive for their teeth, potentially causing damage to the enamel and gums.
That's why kids toothpaste with nano hydroxyapatite is like a superhero shield for their teeth. It helps prevent cavities, strengthens their teeth, and even fixes tiny cracks.
Plus, it's perfect for kids to use to avoid certain risks associated with fluoride when used excessively and swallowed, which can cause:
- nausea
- fluoride poisoning
- and fluorosis.
Therefore, you should ensure your kids use the right product and formulation to avoid these kinds of dental issues.
Summary: Is tooth powder better than toothpaste?
While both can clean teeth, toothpaste is the go-to for most people due to its simplicity and effectiveness in oral care routines, holding a distinct advantage over tooth powder.
Plus, toothpaste with nano hydroxyapatite offers a wide range of unique benefits that can be tailored to your specific oral health needs such as:
- teeth remineralization
- teeth whitening
- reducing teeth sensitivity
- and controlling biofilm.
Therefore, comparing toothpaste and tooth powder, it's clear that toothpaste, especially with advanced features like nano hydroxyapatite, offers a convenient, effective, and personalized approach to oral care.
It's a standout choice for those seeking a well-rounded dental routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use toothpaste more than 3x a day?No, using toothpaste more than three times a day may lead to excessive exposure to certain ingredients. It is better to follow the recommended brush at least twice a day for safe and optimal results.
What happens if I accidentally swallow tooth powder?
Generally, swallowing a small amount of tooth powder is considered safe, as most commercial formulations are designed with non-toxic ingredients. However, regularly swallowing large amounts may pose potential risks, such as gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea, or diarrhea.
Should you use mouthwash before using toothpaste?
No, it is better to use mouthwash after using toothpaste, as it can reach areas that floss and toothbrush may miss, helping to combat harmful bacteria and enhancing your overall oral hygiene.
Is nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste safe when accidentally swallowed?
Nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste such as NOBS Toothpaste Tablets is actually safe to be swallowed. Just be aware that you may experience a bit of stomach discomfort due to the xylitol.
What is fluoride-free toothpaste?
Fluoride free toothpaste is a dental hygiene product that does not contain fluoride, a mineral commonly found in conventional toothpaste. Instead, it is often formulated with safe ingredients like nano hydroxyapatite to clean and remineralize teeth.
