Across the Philippines, many still believe that using more toothpaste means getting cleaner, whiter teeth. We’ve all seen it on TV — commercials showing someone squeezing a thick line of toothpaste across the brush, promising a sparkling smile. For years, brands like Close-Up and other ads have shaped that image.

But the truth? You only need a small amount — about the size of a pea.

To understand this better, let’s follow two friends — Mario and Mike.

Mario’s Way: More Foam, Less Clean

Mario grew up thinking that more toothpaste meant a better clean. Every morning, he would load his brush until the bristles disappeared under a mountain of foam. The bubbles felt satisfying — fresh and minty — but the cleaning didn’t last. His gums often bled, and his teeth still felt rough by the end of the day.

Why? Because the excess foam made him believe his mouth was already clean, so he brushed too quickly. Worse, that foam masked the early signs of gum bleeding — a key symptom of gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease.

Mike’s Way: Less Paste, Better Technique

Mike, on the other hand, followed his dentist’s advice. Just a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste, brushed gently in circular motions for two minutes, twice a day. He flossed once daily and made sure to reach every tooth surface.

Even with less toothpaste, his mouth felt cleaner, fresher, and healthier. Mike understood what most people miss — the real cleaning comes from brushing technique, not the amount of toothpaste used.

The Science Behind It

Dentists emphasize that toothpaste’s main role is to deliver fluoride, which strengthens enamel and protects against decay. The brushing motion — not the foam — removes food particles and plaque.

Using too much toothpaste creates a false sense of cleanliness, often causing people to brush for shorter periods or skip important spots. It’s an illusion that can lead to gum disease, enamel wear, and bad breath over time.

Beyond Clean Teeth: Why It Matters

Good oral hygiene is not just about a bright smile — it’s about your overall health. Research links gum inflammation to heart disease, diabetes, and premature birth. Taking care of your mouth helps protect your entire body.

The Filipino Smile for the Future

As more Filipinos become aware of proper dental habits, it’s time to move beyond the myths shaped by commercials. A pea-sized amount of toothpaste, good technique, and regular dental visits are the real keys to a cleaner, healthier smile.

Because sometimes, less truly means more.

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