From whitening teeth to stopping gingivitis, there are several different toothpaste options available to serve your dental care needs. Although formulas for specific products vary, Eric J. Hartzell, DMD, and the staff at his dental office in High Point, NC, say it’s important to know what basic ingredients are commonly found in most toothpaste. Knowing more about the ingredient list will leave you better prepared to address allergy or sensitivity issues, as well as find the best oral care products to keep your mouth healthy. 

What Ingredients Are in a Basic Toothpaste Formula?

1. Mild Abrasives to Scrub Away Food & Plaque 

When food residue is left on the teeth and gums, harmful bacteria can spread in the mouth. Toothpaste includes mild abrasives, such as calcium carbonate and hydrated aluminum oxides, to remove the residue and surface stains from the teeth without scratching the enamel. 

2. Detergents Help Disintegrate Plaque

Detergents, such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), help toothpaste foam while brushing teeth. The foaming action helps disintegrate plaque buildup on the teeth and gum line. Although SLS is a common detergent found in toothpaste, ask the staff at your dental office for alternative suggestions if you are prone to canker sores, as the particles could cause mouth cuts.

3. Humectants to Maintain Toothpaste Texture

Humectants help toothpaste keep its thick, pliable texture. The polyol compound glycerol and the sugar alcohol, sorbitol, help the paste retain water, so it doesn’t dry out in the tube. Both ingredients also help give toothpaste a slightly sweet taste. 

4. Flavoring Agents to Hide the Unpleasant Taste of Other Ingredients

Although sorbitol and glycerol help naturally sweeten toothpaste, specific flavoring agents are also added to help conceal the bitter taste of detergents and other ingredients. Xylitol is a plant-based sweetener often used in toothpaste, which reduces the levels of bacteria in the mouth leading to cavities. 

5. Thickening Agents to Keep the Paste From Separating 

Thickening agents, such as cellulose gum, are used to prevent toothpaste from becoming runny. It stops the liquid from separating in the tube. Apart from maintaining the toothpaste texture, thickeners also stop bacteria from breaking down the pyrophosphates in toothpaste that fight tartar buildup.  

Whether you need toothpaste recommendations, regular teeth cleaning, restorative procedures, or additional treatment, Eric J. Hartzell, DMD, and his dental office staff will do everything possible to address your oral care needs and improve your quality of life. To schedule a dentist appointment in High Point, call (336) 886-8776. Visit the dental office online for a closer look at the services they provide.