What’s In Your Toothpaste? How Ingredients Affect Oral Health
Standard (non-organic) toothpaste usually contains:
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Abrasives to clean bacterial film and debris off teeth. Common abrasives include calcium carbonate, dehydrated silica gels, hydrated aluminum oxides, magnesium carbonate, phosphate salts, and silicates. Silica is often the whitening agent in most whitening toothpastes.
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Detergents that create the foamy sensation, like sodium lauryl sulfate and sodium N-Lauryl sarcosinate.
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Fluoride at different strengths—children’s toothpaste contains less fluoride than adult formulas.
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Flavoring compounds, including sweeteners such as saccharine.
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Special ingredients for specific conditions, such as tetrasodium pyrophosphate for tartar control, potassium nitrate or strontium chloride for sensitive teeth, stannous fluoride and triclosan for reducing gum inflammation and removing plaque.
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Moistening agents to keep the paste soft and easy to squeeze out, such as glycerol, propylene glycol, and sorbitol.
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Binders to prevent ingredient separation—mineral colloids, natural gums, seaweed colloids, or synthetic cellulose.
Organic toothpaste tends to be paraben-free and sulfate-free, without Sodium Lauryl/Laureth Sulfate or artificial colors/flavors. It may have natural preservatives. If you frequently get tiny pimples or rashes around your lips, or canker sores inside your mouth, consider switching to organic toothpaste that is free from Sodium Lauryl/Laureth Sulfate, as some people are sensitive or allergic to these additives.
Do You Need Toothpaste to Clean Your Teeth?
Dental plaque is a sticky, colorless biofilm of bacteria and sugars that constantly forms on teeth. Plaque is acidic and will break down tooth enamel and dentine, causing cavities. It can also irritate gums, causing gingivitis, infections, and eventual tooth loss.
Brushing with a product designed for a fresh mouth feels great, but for practical cleaning, toothpaste isn’t strictly necessary. You can remove food debris and plaque simply with a soft toothbrush and good brushing techniques. Flossing, limiting sugary foods and drinks, and regular dental checkups keep your teeth healthy and strong.