dentifrice /den″tifris/ [L, dens + fricare, to rub] , a pharmaceutic compound used with a toothbrush for cleaning and polishing the teeth. It typically contains a mild abrasive, detergent, flavoring agent, fluoride, and binder. Other common ingredients are deodorants, humectants, desensitizers, and various medications to prevent dental caries. Also called toothpaste.
