Does Toothpaste Deteriorate?

[AndiFlatland]

A few weeks ago, I had some annoying twinges of mild pain in one or two of my teeth, and thought I would buy a tube of Sensodyne next time I went to the shops.

But in the meantime, I recalled that I had a tube of Sensodyne still secreted in an old travel wash bag that I hadn't used since the mid-90s, and so I dug it out. Looking at the box the tube came in, I was surprised to find that it carried a 'best before' date of November 1996. Almost 18 years out of date! I opened the tube, sniffed it - smelled fine - then touched it with the tip of my tongue - tasted OK, too. So I thought I'd give it a try.

It seemed absolutely fine - and it still did the job of damping down the mild tooth pain.

So if it lasts that long and still tastes OK, and still does the job, why the need for a 'best before' date? Is it something to do with the fact that toothpaste is, I believe, classified as a foodstuff, and must therefore carry such information regardless?

[tamborine]

18years on one tube of Sensodyne! Its a wonder the company is still in business. BBDdate is a recommended fall safe procedure, imo. Treat yourself to a new tube for safety & to support the business.

[BlackadderV]

Recently found a tin of peas stuck in the back of my cupboard priced in pre-decimal currency. They were delicious.

[1ozzy]

There is a distinct difference between a "use by date" and a "best before date".

[Old_Geezer]

Probably a combination of covering themselves in case it had become less effective at making your teeth less sensitive and a desire to sell more. I was under the impression that it was an ongoing treatment for a permanent issue rather than for isolated incidents of toothache. You should get the cause of your ache checked.

[janbee]

I recently found a tin of tomatoes dating back to the reign of Rameses11 , so I binned them. Maybe I should've given them a try? Oh well, too late now.

[bhg481]

I understand that the fluoride deteriorates after a while, so you won't get the benefit of that. It could also be, in the case of Sensodyne, that the de-sensitiveing chemicals aren't as effective as they were.

[Hopkirk]

What doesn't kill you makes you stronger

[Peter Pedant]

in the 80s I kept butter in my fridge for two years
tasted OK

[Prudie]

But it may have contained bacteria that haven't hit you yet!!

[Peter Pedant]

I think toothpaste is by and large inert and sterile

I cant think what the bacteria would live off quite honestly - and it would have to be anaerobic...

If found you could call it Bacillus dentifriciens -