When you think of the word “abrasive,” maybe your mind jumps to that scrubbing pad you use to get stains out of the sink. Well, same concept holds true when it comes to toothpaste. Toothpaste abrasiveness is “scrubbing power,” and while we may think of it as a good thing (no one wants stains on their teeth, after all), over-abrasive toothpastes can actually work AGAINST our pearly whites. Knowledge is power – and a healthier smile – so keep reading for the top 3 reasons you need a non abrasive toothpaste.
Are All Toothpastes Abrasive?
Yes. In reality, all toothpastes need some level of abrasion in order to remove surface stains and plaque from the teeth. But there CAN be too much of a good thing (looking at you too, queso dip). If your toothpaste is too abrasive, your smile can pay the price.
Abrasive toothpaste ingredients include calcium carbonate, dehydrated silica gels, hydrated aluminum oxides, magnesium carbonate, phosphate salts, silicates, and in recent years – charcoal. (Check out Why You Should Avoid Charcoal Toothpastes.)
The perfect toothpaste should be formulated to strike the right balance: getting the teeth clean without being overly abrasive.
How Is Toothpaste Abrasion Determined?
Toothpaste abrasion is measured on a scale called Relative Dentin Abrasivity (RDA). Keep in mind, when you hear the term “non abrasive toothpaste” it really means low abrasion toothpaste. Even just water and a toothbrush will have some level of abrasivity. The danger to our smiles is when we continue to use toothpastes that are too abrasive over a long period of time.
Curious where your current toothpaste ranks? Check out this RDA toothpaste-ranking list.
Toothpaste RDA Scale:
- Low abrasion (aka non abrasive) toothpaste: 0–70 RDA
- Moderately abrasive toothpaste: 70–100 RDA
- Highly abrasive toothpaste: 100–150
- Harmfully abrasive toothpaste: 150+
3 Reasons to Upgrade to a Low Abrasion Toothpaste
1. Preserve Your Enamel
Enamel is the protective outer layer of our teeth. It’s the secret to a healthy smile because it helps keep the teeth free of decay. Even though enamel is the hardest tissue in the human body, it’s not impermeable. Besides acid attacks on our teeth – which come through sugar, refined carbs, sports drinks, etc. – one of the major ways we wear out our enamel is through abrasive toothpastes and incorrect brushing.
Many of us are guilty of brushing with brute strength – back-and-forth strong scrubbing – instead of using light circular strokes. (More force does not equal cleaner teeth!) Also, using anything other than a soft-bristled or extra-soft-bristled toothbrush can contribute to enamel erosion and gum problems, especially if you’re not using a low abrasion toothpaste.
Here’s what’s troubling when we’re talking enamel: once it’s gone, it doesn’t grow back! Yes, we can strengthen the enamel we have, but we can’t form NEW enamel.
2. Keep Your Teeth Whiter
When our enamel gets worn away, it exposes the next level of our teeth: the dentin. Dentin is naturally yellow in color, so that’s why whitening toothpastes (which are generally more abrasive than other toothpaste formulas) can work against us.
As they remove surface stains, they can also damage the enamel, bringing the yellow dentin front and center. They can also dull the appearance of veneers. That’s why it’s best to ignore those shouting marketing messages of “whitening formula!” and go with a trusted low abrasion toothpaste. It’s a simple way to maintain your white smile.
3. Avoid (Ouch!) Tooth Sensitivity
Nothing can spoil a sip of hot coffee or a bite of ice cream like tooth sensitivity can. Why do we get those sharp shooting pains? It goes back to our enamel. Remember, the job of enamel is to protect us – not just from decay but also from sensitivity.
Choosing a Non Abrasive Toothpaste
Oxyfresh Fresh Breath Lemon Mint Toothpaste is a non-toxic, non abrasive toothpaste with an RDA rating of just 45. The most popular toothpaste in the Oxyfresh line, it provides a brighter smile and maximum fresh breath while being gentle on enamel and gums.
Fresh Breath Lemon Mint Toothpaste is uniquely formulated with a refreshing burst of natural essential oils, xylitol natural sweetener to fight plaque, and our secret ingredient Oxygene® plus zinc to give you all-day fresh breath – no artificial mint coverups!
If you’re serious about protecting your enamel, get the non abrasive toothpaste that’s clinically proven to reduce plaque, benefit the gums, and be oh-so-gentle on your smile: Oxyfresh Lemon Mint Toothpaste. You’ll love it!
