Question

Is toothpaste an acid or base?

Answer 1

Toothpaste is a base.

Any substance that can accept hydrogen ions is called a base, it is an effective conductor of electricity in their aqueous solutions and, the pH value of bases is always greater than 7.

1. Toothpaste is a base.
2. It has an alkaline pH(over 7).
3. The pH value of toothpaste at $35°\mathrm{C}$ temperature is 6.
4. After we eat, the food breaks down and releases acid.
5. We brush our teeth with toothpaste to counteract the acidic effect, that is neutralized in our mouths.
6. Tooth decay eventually leads to erosion of the enamel and dentine. To soften or demineralize enamel, microorganisms that act on carbohydrates create acids.
7. After eating, bacteria in the mouth oxidize the food particles and sugar to produce acid, Tooth decay begins when the pH of the mouth drops below 5.5.
8. Depending on its ingredients, the pH of toothpaste can often be between 7 and 10.

Hence, toothpaste is a base.