What’s Up with the Stripes?

It’s important to use the right toothpaste for your needs. Some toothpaste is designed specifically for whitening, while others are formulated for sensitive teeth or tartar control. If you’re not sure which type of toothpaste is best for you, talk to your dentist or hygienist. They can help you find the right product and provide tips on how to get the most out of your brushing routine.

Speaking of toothpaste, did you ever wonder how striped toothpaste maintains its stripes? To be honest, we hadn’t given it much thought until a series of experiments went viral on TikTok. It turns out there’s some pretty interesting science behind those stripes!  

In January 2022, TikToker Ryan Battistella set out to solve the mystery of how Colgate toothpaste stripes come out perfectly every time. He devised his own at-home experiment, mashing, squeezing and mixing a Colgate Optic White tube in an attempt to figure out the science behind it. To his surprise, no matter what he did, the same striped results were dispensed every time.

Colgate was quick to explain the science behind its toothpaste stripes. It turns out that toothpaste is surprisingly thick and actually pretty difficult to mix due to its viscosity. This helps keep the stripes intact, even if you knead or stir the product. In addition, Colgate uses a process called rheology to ensure that each stripe has the same physical properties. That means one color doesn’t come out of the tube faster than another. All this means you receive a faultless mixture of tooth-cleaning power with every application! 

The Best Way to Brush

No matter what type of toothpaste you use, the most important thing is to brush your teeth correctly. Make sure to brush for two minutes and use a soft-bristled toothbrush. This will help keep your teeth healthy and strong.

We also recommend that you use an electric toothbrush versus a manual toothbrush. Why is that?

Electric toothbrushes are more effective at removing plaque and debris from your teeth. They also help to reduce gum inflammation, which can lead to gum disease. Plus, they make brushing easier and more enjoyable! Electric toothbrushes come in a variety of styles and prices, so you can find one that fits your budget and needs.

How to Hold Your Toothbrush

When brushing your teeth, it’s important to hold your toothbrush correctly. Place the bristles of the brush at a 45-degree angle against your gums and gently move in a circular motion. This will help remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth and gums.

Don’t Forget to Brush Your Tongue

It’s also important to brush your tongue. Bacteria can build up on the surface of your tongue, which can cause bad breath and other oral health problems. To clean your tongue, use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a tongue scraper. This will help remove bacteria and keep your breath fresh!

Make Flossing a Part of Your Routine

Finally, don’t forget to floss! Flossing helps remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth, which can help prevent cavities and gum disease.

It’s important to make sure you’re brushing and flossing correctly. If you’re not sure, ask your dentist or hygienist for tips on the best way to care for your teeth. Regular visits to the dentist are also important for maintaining good oral health.

What Happens if You Don’t Brush? 

If you don’t brush regularly, plaque and bacteria can build up on the surface of your teeth. This can lead to tooth decay, cavities and gum disease. It’s also important to remember that poor oral hygiene can have an effect on your overall health, too. 

Stripes vs. Solid

So is striped toothpaste better than all-white or solid-colored toothpaste?

The answer is that it depends on your needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a toothpaste that offers both cleaning and whitening power, then striped toothpaste may be the best option. However, if you are not concerned about whitening in your toothpaste, an all-white or one-colored toothpaste may be better suited for your needs. Of course, you have to consider your preferences in consistency (gel vs. paste) too.

Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which type of toothpaste you want to use. 

And what flavor? That’s a whole other blog! If you’d like to talk about toothpaste even more or any other general dentistry topic, we’d love to hear from you!

Copyright © 2025 - All Rights Reserved