Fluoride helps to fight cavities through a process called remineralization. A cavity usually starts as a very small weak spot in the enamel of a tooth. After continual bombardment by acid and bacteria, this weak spot can become a fully developed cavity. Acids play a major role in the cavity's process because they remove minerals (namely calcium and phosphorous) from the tooth, making it more susceptible to decay. This process is called demineralization. Fluoride counteracts this effect and actually helps to reverse demineralization by fostering the return of lost minerals to the demineralized site. This positive process of returning minerals to the mineral-starved site is defined as remineralization. Aquafresh^® also fights cavities by helping to reduce the production of acids by physically removing the bacteria which are the source of acids that can actually cause teeth to demineralize. Additionally, Aquafresh^® adds fluoride to the tooth's crystal lattice, making it more resistant to acid attack. In other words, Aquafresh® actually strengthens the tooth's outside protective enamel surface.

Plaque is a gummy mass of microorganisms that grow on the crowns and spreads along the roots of teeth and is both colorless and transparent. Dental plaques are the forerunners of dental caries and periodontal disease. Tartar is hardened plaque deposited upon the teeth. Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums characterized by redness, swelling and tendency to bleed.

Major professional dental associations, including the American Dental Association (ADA) and the British Dental Association (BDA), recommend that people of all ages use fluoride toothpaste twice daily, even if they live in an area with a fluoridated water supply. (Oral Care Issues Management Resource, July 2003) The recently issued Cochrane report reviewed 56 clinical studies covering more that 42,000 participants. The results show that the use of a fluoride-containing toothpaste provides a significant benefit (about 25% fewer cavities) even in areas where the water is fluoridated. Reference: Marinho, VCC, Higgins, JPT, Sheiham, A., Logan, S.; Fluoride toothpastes for preventing dental caries in children and adolescents, (Cochrane Review) in: The Cochrane Library, Issue 1, 2003, Oxford.

The expiration date is stamped on the crimp of the tube and the flap of the carton. (The expiration date is not printed on ALL with Tartar Control because it has a 3-year shelf life).

Aquafresh^® toothpaste does not contain gluten.

No, Aquafresh^® tubes do not contain latex or substances associated with latex.

GSK markets Aquafresh^® in North and South America, Europe, East and South Africa, Middle East, Asia, Australia and New Zealand. As with many of our products around the world, we often adapt our product formulation to meet local regulatory requirements and consumer needs and preferences. Therefore, the Aquafresh® that you find when you travel to other countries may be slightly different from the product that is found in the U.S.