Most people stick to their tried and true toothpaste brands, trusting that they are doing the best they can for their oral and dental health and that of their children.

But a check of the ingredients can lead to some pretty nasty surprises.

The harmful ingredients toothpaste can contain include:

1. Sodium fluoride: This chemical is the main ingredient in toothpaste as well as rat poison. Generally, dentists recommend fluoride to prevent cavities.

But care is needed – too much sodium fluoride can damage the health, indeed it can be fatal for small children.

Use a toothpaste formulated for children for the youngsters and keep tubes of toothpaste for adults out of reach of children.

2. Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS): SLS is used to generate foam and give the impression that the toothpaste is working. Sadly, SLS’ foaming properties can damage the health.

The chemical is also used in the cleaning industry in products such as garage floor cleaners, engine degreasers and car wash soaps.

3. Triclosan: This pesticide has been found in many types of toothpaste. Some of the most toxic chemicals have the same structure and formulation as this ingredient.

Externally, this chemical can cause skin irritation. If it is ingested in sufficient quantities it can cause cold sweats, circulatory collapse, convulsions, coma and death.

4. Hydrated silica: This is a whitener that damages the tooth enamel. Just about everyone loves a nice, bright white smile, that’s why tooth whitening products are so popular. Hydrated Silica can scratch the surface of the tooth and damage the enamel, like using sand to clean glass.

5. Artificial preservatives: These are added to prolong shelf life.

6. Artificial colouring: These are included to give the toothpaste a colour that is pleasing to the eye.

7. Artificial sweeteners: These are commonly used in toothpaste for children to make the experience of brushing teeth pleasant.

Choosing a safe toothpaste

• For babies

Most children’s toothpaste is made for those two years old and above. So, how does one properly clean a baby’s teeth?

It is not necessary to use toothpaste to keep the mouth clean, but brushing is.

Parents could use water and a soft-bristled brush or clean the teeth with a finger as soon as the first teeth come through. Use coconut oil for older babies.

• For adults

The sheer variety of toothpaste on the store shelves can be overwhelming.

Check the teeth before making a choice as certain toothpastes are designed for certain conditions, such as Sensodyne for those with sensitive teeth.

Whitening toothpaste should not be used all the time as it can damage the tooth enamel.

Those who smoke and drink red wine often find their teeth are yellow or stained. Quit smoking and drink less red wine to reduce staining instead of reaching for a whitening toothpaste.

The correct, safe toothpaste will help protect and clean the teeth and mouth efficiently. Consult a dentist for more information and to get the teeth checked.

This article first appeared on Hello Doktor and was medically reviewed by the Hello Doktor Medical Panel. The Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.