How toothpaste is made

Many years ago, toothpaste was seen as a simple cosmetic product. However, due to ongoing scientific studies and research, it now plays a crucial medical role in maintaining oral health for patients.

To recommend the most suitable product that meets the individual needs of each patient, dentists must understand the primary ingredients of toothpastes, such as excipients, fragrances, healing agents, and humectants.

Toothpaste originated in Egypt around 4,000 years ago and was basically made from crushed stones and vinegar, applied to teeth with small twigs.

The first commercial toothpaste was developed in the European Union in the 1950s.

However, in the 1970s and 1980s, the introduction of fluoridated products containing sodium fluoride (NaF) and sodium monofluorophosphate (MFP) boosted toothpaste sales.

Since then, new product launches and formulations have been developed to cater to the various needs of the public.

Today, in addition to ingredients that preserve the physical form of the product, toothpaste contains other protective components that assist in treating specific diseases and preventing various oral cavity problems.

Abrasives are used to clean and polish the surface, providing the patient with a “whiter teeth” sensation.

The abrasivity of toothpaste is measured by RDA (Relative Dentin Abrasivity), reflecting its potential abrasiveness to dentin.

RDA Value

The internationally accepted RDA value is 250, and although there are various types of toothpaste on the market, none exceed this RDA value.

Based on the RDA value in the following table, you can check the level of abrasiveness of a given toothpaste.

The contaminants used in toothpaste must be controlled to avoid damage to the structures that make up the teeth.

There’s no concern for enamel, which is a highly mineralized tissue and more resistant than dentin.

However, when dentin becomes exposed, concerns arise about the erosiveness of toothpaste and the wear from toothbrushes to prevent tissue loss.

Humectants

Humectants are hydrophilic agents (they have an affinity for water) that help maintain the appearance and consistency of toothpaste.

They prevent toothpaste from hardening in its packaging.

Commonly used humectants in toothpaste manufacturing include sorbitol and glycerol.

Binders

Binders or thickening agents are responsible for the consistency of the toothpaste.

A widely used binder is sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC).

These ingredients ensure the mixing of components and provide the product with texture and creaminess.

Detergents

Detergents aid in cleaning by removing residues from the surface.

They possess moisturizing, emulsifying, foaming, and dissolving properties.

The most commonly used is sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), which can cause allergic reactions at high doses.

Some claim that SLS is carcinogenic, but this assertion could not be confirmed due to a lack of scientific data.

Since no toothpaste with SLS is currently on the market, formulations with lower levels of SLS should be prescribed for allergic patients.

Flavoring Agents

Flavoring agents are responsible for freshening breath; however, in some cases, their use can be associated with oral sensitivity (burning) due to the aromatic oils used in the formula.

If a patient complains of burning sensations, it’s recommended to switch to another toothpaste until finding one that does not irritate.

In some cases, in addition to using a lower concentration of SLS, often used in cosmetics, an anti-allergic toothpaste may be prescribed.

Preservatives

Preservatives are used to protect the product, maintaining the active formula and preventing microbial growth.

Due to the large amount of water used in preparing toothpaste, it is important to use preservatives, especially in the liquid versions of the product.

The primary preservative found in toothpaste is methylparaben.

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Source of information: blog.dentalspeed.com

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