Toothpaste tablets: What are they and should you use them
The world of dental health has welcomed a new addition that could revolutionize the way people brush their teeth. We're talking about toothpaste tablets, which provide instant dental hygiene, one bite at a time. Currently valued at $20 million, the market for these tablets is projected to double by 2026, according to The Guardian. Should you use these tablets? Let's find out!
What are toothpaste tablets?
Toothpaste tablets or tooth tabs contain a powder derived from various ingredients like xylitol, calcium carbonate, and sodium bicarbonate. Most of them also include tartar control. They are bite-sized options that are believed to provide similar results to the traditional toothpaste tube method of maintaining oral hygiene. These eco-friendly alternatives have been designed to reduce plastic waste and dependency, promoting a zero-waste approach.
How did these tablets come into being?
It all started when Bite, founded by Lindsay McCormick in the United States, invented toothpaste in a pill back in 2017 as a plastic-free alternative to traditional toothpaste tubes. Her first sales were worth $6,000 which skyrocketed to $200,000 when her video went viral on Facebook. Later many brands including Hello, Native, and Archtek followed suit and launched their versions of tooth tablets.
The tooth tablets work in 3 easy steps
It is no rocket science to use tooth tabs as they work in three simple steps. Step 1: Place a tooth tab in your mouth. Step 2: Gently crush and chew on it with your teeth and allow your saliva to mix with it. Step 3: Once a paste forms inside your mouth, wet your toothbrush and brush around for two minutes.
The benefits of using these tablets are many
Experts believe that using tooth tabs has a few special benefits. First and foremost is the fact that these tabs feature eco-friendly packaging (they come in glass containers or compostable pouches) and are vegan and cruelty-free. Some of them are also gluten-free. Tooth tabs are highly portable, and eliminate the need for squeezing toothpaste from tubes, saving you time.
There are some downsides too
A lack of research on whether these tablets are effective or not tops the list of their downsides. While it is an emerging trend, one still needs to check with their dental health professional before replacing traditional toothpaste tubes with these tablets. Another important disadvantage is their cost. In the US, they are available at $30 for a four-month supply, reports Colgate.
Should you use these tablets and trash your toothpaste tubes?
While tooth tablets have gained popularity, their effectiveness lacks solid scientific evidence. Many experts express concern that these tablets are often fluoride-free, increasing the risk of cavities. Fluoride is a crucial ingredient in effective toothpaste. Furthermore, many dentists are skeptical of the ability of tooth tabs to prevent plaque and gum diseases due to limited lab testing and data.
