A dentifrice is a substance used with a toothbrush to clean tooth surfaces. There are two main types: cosmetic dentifrices, which clean and polish teeth, and therapeutic dentifrices, which help reduce diseases like cavities and gingivitis. Dentifrices contain abrasives like silica to clean teeth, water, humectants like sorbitol for consistency, foaming agents for antibacterial properties, sweeteners, binders, flavors, and potentially therapeutic agents like fluoride. Ingredients like humectants maintain moisture, foaming agents facilitate cleaning and have antibacterial effects, flavors make it pleasant to use, and preservatives prevent bacterial growth in the product.