What does the colour code on your toothpaste actually mean?

You may be aware that keeping up proper oral hygiene requires brushing your teeth at least twice a day. By removing food particles and plaque, it helps stop gum disease and cavities. Frequent brushing helps avoid bad breath and maintains a healthy environment in the mouth. It is essential for avoiding tartar accumulation, which can result in more severe dental problems.
By lowering the risk of infections and heart disease associated with poor oral hygiene, brushing your teeth twice a day improves your overall health. Furthermore, having a clean mouth enhances one's confidence and self-worth. However, picking the right brush and the toothpaste comes into consideration. Have you noticed the colour codes on your toothpaste tube? You must be wondering what each colour signifies or if it actually denotes something. Well, here’s what it means:


According to Dr. Sageer Aazaz, HOD Dentistry, Paras Health, Gurugram, “The colour code on the bottom of a toothpaste tube is often believed to indicate the ingredients or quality of the toothpaste, but this is actually a myth. These colour bars, known as "eye marks" or "colour marks," are part of the manufacturing process and help automated machinery know where to cut, fold, or seal the packaging. These marks are mostly green, blue, red, or black. The different colours are used by the packaging machines to identify the end of the tube and ensure proper alignment during production. They have no relation to the toothpaste’s ingredients or safety.”


The key information you should look for when choosing a toothpaste is on the packaging itself, particularly the ingredient list and any certifications. For optimal oral health, look for toothpaste that contains fluoride, as it helps to prevent tooth decay. Additionally, some toothpastes are specially formulated to address specific needs such as sensitivity, whitening, or tartar control.

If you have any concerns or specific dental needs, it's always best to consult with your dentist. They can recommend the most suitable toothpaste based on your individual oral health requirements.