Clinical efficacy of toothpaste containing potassium citrate in treating dentin hypersensitivity

Investigation of the constituents of commercially available toothpastes

OBJECTIVES

Toothpaste plays a pivotal role in oral and dental hygiene. This cross-sectional study not only investigates the constituents of toothpastes available in the market and their frequency across different brands but also delves into the potential side effects, irritations, or unfavourable outcomes of these constituents, emphasizing the broader health and environmental implications.

METHODS

The largest of the five major chain markets in each district of Istanbul was visited, and adult toothpastes were included in this study. All the constituents that make up the toothpaste were individually recorded in an Excel database. Subsequently, literature regarding the purposes, toxic and potential side effects of each ingredient was gathered using databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed and ScienceDirect. The percentages of these ingredients' occurrence among all the toothpastes were calculated, and the ingredients were categorized into 15 distinct groups based on their usage purposes.

RESULTS

There were 160 different varieties of toothpaste belonging to 19 different brands on the market shelves. Although a total of 244 different ingredients were identified, only 78 of them were included in the study. Among the analysed toothpaste types, 105 of them were found to contain 1450 ppm fluoride, whilst 26 toothpaste variants were discovered to have fluoride levels below this value. Among the various ingredients analysed, particular attention was drawn to commonly debated compounds in oral care products. Specifically, titanium dioxide was found in 68% (n = 111) of the varieties, sodium lauryl sulphate in 67% (n = 108) and paraben in 2% (n = 4), respectively.

CONCLUSION

Whilst certain ingredients may raise concerns for potential side effects and health considerations within the human body, the toothpaste has long been regarded as an indispensable tool for maintaining optimal oral and dental health. However, gaining a deeper understanding and conducting research on each constituent that comprises the toothpaste, as well as raising awareness in this regard, holds significant importance for human health.

Oral care product formulations, properties and challenges

This review explores the physical, chemical and structural properties of key components of oral care products, whilst looking at the challenges which need to be overcome to continue to improve the efficacy of oral care, and improve dental health. Oral care has been an essential part of all populations and cultures around the world for thousands of years. To maintain good oral health, dental plaque causing bacteria and malodour must be controlled whilst also strengthening and protecting the teeth to prevent dental caries. Advanced modern formulations need to provide controlled and extended release of ingredients vital for dental health. With modern day products such as toothpastes and mouthwashes, it has never been easier to maintain good oral hygiene and health, yet the incidence of dental caries is still on the rise. The complex formulations of modern toothpastes and mouthwashes makes them one of the most sophisticated pharmaceutical products on the market today. The demands of the consumer coupled with the complexity of the oral cavity make it one of the most challenging development processes.