Other Ingredients in Dentifrice

As mentioned before, regular toothbrushing using fluoridated dentifrice combines two protective mechanisms; mechanical dental biofilm disruption and sustained fluoride delivery. However, fluoride must be chemically free (soluble) in the toothpaste formulation, assuring F bioavailability in the oral cavity during toothbrushing.²⁹ This bioavailability depends on the chemical compatibility between the type of fluoride added to the formulation and the abrasive used.³⁰

Toothpastes and gels also contain abrasives (such as hydrated silica) to clean teeth; binders (such as xanthan gum, carrageenan or carbopol) to prevent the separation of ingredients; coloring for visual appeal; humectants (such as glycerin or sorbitol) to retain moisture; buffers (such as phosphates) to maintain product stability; flavorings (such as peppermint and cinnamon); and surfactants (such as sodium lauryl sulfate) to produce a foaming action and reduce surface tension. ). In most developing countries the majority of the toothpastes contain calcium carbonate as abrasive, which may inactivate part of fluoride present in the commercial products, even if they are formulated with sodium monofluorophosphate (MFP).^31,32

Figure 4. Other Toothpaste Ingredients

Figure 4. Other Toothpaste Ingredients

While the focus of this education course is caries, it is also useful to know of the other types of dentifrices to help address other individualized needs of the patient. These types provide plaque and gingivitis protection, tartar control, whitening, sensitivity protection, erosion protection and protection from oral malodor. Many fluoride dentifrices today cover some combinations or all of these benefit areas in one dentifrice.