Some use agents that are also used in anti-tartar toothpastes, helping to prevent the build up of tartar and potentially reducing the amount of staining.
Many toothpastes on the market claim to have 'whitening' properties - meaning that they may remove stains, rather than change the natural colour of the teeth.
The BDA does not accredit a toothpaste for a whitening claim alone but accreditation can be given to toothpastes that demonstrate effective cleaning alongside dental health benefits.
The British Dental Association (BDA) accredits toothpastes which demonstrate dental health benefits - such as reduced decay and healthier gums - to an independent panel of experts.
For example, if Listerine had felt bound by the bathroom cabinet and only seen other toothpastes, mouthwashes, and floss as competition, their innovations would have quickly grown tiresome.