The Ministry of Health advises the public to stop using whitening toothpastes to whiten teeth as they are not truly white.
Commenting on this, Community Dental Consultant Dr. Shanika Muthuthanthri says that whitening toothpastes available in the market are not harmful, but they contain harsh ingredients such as silica or calcium carbonate.
She points out that using these only cleans the surface stains on the teeth, but can scratch the enamel of the teeth.
Explaining that the whitening effect of such toothpastes does not last long, she advises the public to use toothpastes containing fluoride, which helps protect the teeth.
The doctor also points out that 63% of preschool children and 90% of adults between the ages of 35 and 44 currently have tooth decay.
She emphasizes that fluoride toothpaste is the best way to prevent tooth decay, pointing out that it strengthens the enamel, prevents damage to the tooth roots, and reduces the acidity of the mouth.