The first major active ingredient introduced into modernday, over-the-counter dentifrices was fluoride. Since then, dentifrices have been developed with ingredients offering anti-plaque/anti-gingivitis, anti-halitosis, whitening or desensitizing benefits, or a multiplicity of benefits. Given the range of dentifrices currently available, and their differences, a recommendation is important; this should be based on the individual patient’s specific needs and desires and the scientific support for a dentifrice.
