Toothpaste Too Abrasive?

Each and every toothpaste has a granular component that is added to aid in the removal of plaque and bacteria.  The primary issue and problem with the granular additive, along with the mechanism of the toothbrush bristles, is that over a period of time it can lead to a "notch-like" defect at the gum line.  These gum line defects occur at the junction where the protective enamel layer stops and the root surface begins.  The areas can be sensitive to thermal (temperature) changes, especially cold, as well as sweets.  Eventually, composite (white filling) material may be required to cover and protect these areas once the defects have occurred.

The latest research and literature supports the fact that the number one cause of these gum line defects is due to the abrasiveness of toothpastes.  The most destructive of the toothpastes are the ones that have whitening components in them as well as some that contain baking soda and tartar control properties.  Any toothpaste that has an abrasive level of 150 (RDA value) or below, we consider as being "safe" to use such as Crest regular or Colgate regular.  Others that are above the 150 abrasive level, we regard as being too abrasive.

We have compiled a current list of many of the commonly used toothpaste on the market today and their granular levels.  Ask us when you are in next for a copy to insure that what you are using at home is not too abrasive.