Colgate makes many different types of toothpastes which serve different purposes. Some whiten, some desensitize, some prevent, and pretty much all of them freshen and protect.
You'd think you need a lot based on some toothpaste commercials on television. However, recommendations from the American Dental Association (ADA) Mouth Healthy site state that you only need a "pea-sized" amount for effective cleaning. Assuming we're talking about a full-grown pea, that equates to around 1 cubic centimeter or 0.06 cubic inches per brushing, according to Dr. Alena Spielberg.
All fluoride containing toothpastes are regulated by the U. S. Food and Drug Administration (USFDA). We put an expiration date on our products that coincides with our product stability testing results and depending on the product, it varies from 18 to 24 months after manufacturing date. After this time has elapsed, the fluoride and aesthetic aspects (i.e. flavor, consistency) may diminish. Therefore, even though the toothpaste is not harmful, we do not recommend using it.
Most cavity-fighting toothpastes share five common ingredients, fluoride, abrasives, flavors, humectants, and detergents, while specialty toothpastes for whitening, sensitive teeth, etc. have other key ingredients.
