Minty toothpaste is refreshing, but it doesn’t always immediately equal clean.

Here’s why that is, and some other signs of cleanliness.

The last ingredientminthas been a toothpaste cornerstone we still see today.

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However, theres some credence to its inclusion throughout the ages.

A2013 studyfound that mint mouthwash helped improve the instance of halitosis, aka bad breath.

Dr. Raimondi says that the minty flavors in dental products can obscure some less than ideal ingredients.

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prosthodontist specializing in aesthetic dentistry, based out of New York City

Here are a few minty products to avoid

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However, sugar-free xylitol gumcan be beneficial for your teeth, Dr. Raimondi says.

Abrasive toothpaste

There is a broad range of minty toothpaste, but not all are created equal.

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Its Amazing How Its All Connected.

This is not ideal because saliva contains bacteria-fighting agents and neutralizes acid.

Luckily, there are alcohol-freemouthwash optionsfeaturing antibacterial, anti-gingivitis ingredients, Dr. Raimondi says.

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There are reliable signs and habits to notice (beyond mintiness)

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A major marker of inflammation is when your gums are puffy, red, and bleed easily.

A dental health green light would be no red or pink in the sink.

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prosthodontist specializing in aesthetic dentistry, based out of New York City

Tongue scraping at the end of brushing!

This is because many bacteria reside on your tongue that can be eliminated through this action.

Scraping your tongue can help fight cavity-causing bacteria, according to theCleveland Clinic.

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Just confirm that youre scraping gently andnot feeling like you scratchedyour tongue afterward.

All in all, mintiness does have its benefitsthat feeling of freshness is great in and of itself.

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