Question

To protect tooth decay we are advised to brush our teeth regularly. The nature of the tooth paste commonly used is:

• A. acidic
• B. neutral
• C. basic
• D. corrosive

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

basic

Decay of teeth starts when $pH$ in the mouth goes below $5.5$. The $pH$ of the mouth may decrease due to the sweetening agent that we eat. Sweetening agents that we eat increases the acidity inside the mouth which can be prevented if the toothpaste used is alkaline or basic in nature. Such toothpaste can neutralize excess acid present in our mouth and tooth decay can be prevented.

Hence, option $C$ is correct.