Toothpaste is one of the most important dental products for maintaining a healthy mouth. Besides a basic formula that includes detergent, flavoring, and fluoride, most toothpastes contain extra ingredients that might aim to remove stains, prevent tartar, reverse gingivitis, soothe sensitivity, or freshen breath. But regardless of each product's primary focus, all toothpastes contain abrasives, which you can learn more about here. 

What Role Do Abrasives Play in Toothpaste?

Abrasives are rough, grainy substances that eliminate softer materials through rubbing. When applied to the teeth, they scrub away plaque, a sticky biofilm comprised of food particles, saliva, and microorganisms. If left to accumulate on the teeth, plaque can eat away at the enamel, causing decay. It can also calcify into tartar, a hardened substance that can irritate the gums and expose them to infection. 

With enough friction, abrasives can remove surface stains as well. Everything from wine to coffee can stain the outermost layer of teeth. Some of the most common abrasives used in toothpaste include calcium carbonate, hydrated silica, sodium metaphosphate, dicalcium phosphate dihydrate, and alumina.

Can a Toothpaste Be Too Abrasive?

Some toothpaste formulas can be overly abrasive. When used with a hard-bristled brush or combined with brushing too often, these toothpastes can irritate the gums and erode the enamel. Once the enamel has worn down, the underlying dentin is exposed, which can lead to tooth sensitivity and make the teeth more vulnerable to decay. 

How Abrasive Should Toothpaste Be?

If you're concerned about buying toothpaste that's too abrasive, evaluate the RDA when comparing dental products. RDA, or relative dentin abrasion, is a measure of how abrasive a formula is. The American Dental Association recommends products with an RDA of 250 or less. Since manufacturers don't include the RDA on the packaging, you may be wondering how to find the right products. Only toothpastes with an RDA of less than 250 can carry the ADA Seal of Acceptance, so as long as the product you're considering has the seal, it's safe. 

If you're wondering what kinds of dental products will protect your family's oral health, ask Kathleen Kujiraoka, DDS. Practicing out of Kaneohe, HI, this friendly dentist is equipped to care for patients of all ages in a warm and welcoming environment. To learn more about the preventive, restorative, and cosmetic services she offers, visit her website. To make an appointment, call (808) 235-2121.