Toothpaste Tablets vs Paste: Which Should You Use?

Toothpaste tablets are a newer way to brush: you crush a small tablet between your teeth, add a little water and brush as usual. Here is how they compare with ordinary toothpaste, and who each format suits.

How a toothpaste tablet works

With Herbostra’s Irimedadi Toothpaste Tablet, you place one tablet in your mouth, crush it between your teeth, and brush with a moistened brush. You can also use a clean index finger for traditional finger brushing. The tablet foams lightly as you brush.

Tablets and paste side by side

• Feel: paste gives a smooth, familiar foam. A tablet starts out gritty and turns into a light foam once it is moistened, which takes a day or two to get used to.
• Dose: one tablet is one brushing, so there is no guessing how much to squeeze.
• Travel: a solid tablet has no tube to leak, which many travellers like.
• Ingredients: the Herbostra tablet lists Irimeda extract, Lavanga (clove), Agaru, Padmaka, Manjishtha, Yashtimadhu (liquorice), Laksha, aniseed oil and eucalyptus. The Herbostra paste lists Irimeda Twak, Khadira and liquorice extract.
• Fluoride: both Herbostra options are fluoride-free. If your dentist has advised a fluoride toothpaste, follow that advice.

Who may prefer the tablet

People who travel often, who like a simple, measured routine, or who want a toothpaste with no tube to squeeze often enjoy the tablet. Anyone who dislikes a gritty start to brushing may prefer paste.

Who may prefer paste

Families, children and anyone who wants the quickest, most familiar routine usually find paste easier. Check with a dentist before giving any fluoride-free product to children.

Can I use both?

Yes. Some people keep a tablet pack for travel and a tube at home. Whichever format you choose, brush for at least two minutes, clean between your teeth and see a dentist regularly. Our guide to choosing an Ayurvedic toothpaste explains what to check on any label.

This guide is general information about traditional Ayurvedic practice and is not a substitute for advice from a doctor or dentist. Herbostra products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Speak to a qualified professional if you are pregnant, nursing, on medication or have a medical condition.