Abrasive toothpastes - description and characteristics

• Editor's Choice
• Highly abrasive whitening toothpastes
• Rating of the best toothpastes with a high degree of abrasiveness
• Whitening pastes with peroxides
• Rating of the best whitening pastes with peroxides
• Rating of the best whitening pastes for sensitive teeth
• conclusions

White, attractive teeth are one of the main signs of health. For various reasons, they may lose their natural shade. In this case, whitening toothpastes will help. According to dentists, this method works quite effectively. But among the wide range of toothpastes, there are unsafe ones. Without the help of a specialist, choosing a product is quite difficult. We will try to determine a list of the best whitening pastes with abrasive particles, peroxides and for sensitive teeth. The rating was compiled taking into account consumer reviews.

What is the abrasiveness of toothpaste?

Dental cleaning products contain abrasives that provide the following functions:

• lightening the shade of enamel;
• reducing the density of stones;
• strengthening the surface of the teeth.

Each product contains a different amount of abrasives. In order not to harm the teeth, they should be no more than 100 units. Cleansers soften the stones, but not enough to completely remove them. Therefore, it is recommended to periodically visit your dentist for professional cleaning.

Abrasives are recommended for polishing the surface of teeth. Enzymes that settle on the surface of the teeth during chewing of food are eliminated. Therefore, no damage to the enamel occurs.

Precautions and helpful tips from experts

We will tell you how to use whitening toothpaste so that it is as effective as possible and does not cause damage to all components of the oral cavity.

Firstly, it is best to choose a product after consultation with a dentist, who will assess the clinical situation and offer the safest options. It may turn out that whitening compounds are completely contraindicated for you. Or fluorine is contraindicated (due to fluorosis, as well as an excess of the element in the body), which is included in most of the samples presented today.

Secondly, it is necessary to undergo professional hygiene in dentistry to prepare the tissues for exposure to bleaches. At the preparation stage, it is important to strengthen the enamel with remotherapy or fluoridation. Two weeks before the start of the course, you need to increase your consumption of foods with calcium and phosphorus, and start taking vitamin and mineral complexes.

Thirdly, when choosing, give preference not to price, bright advertising or beautiful packaging, but to the composition. The packaging must indicate the abrasiveness index, as well as the content of fluorine and other useful components. It is better not to buy copies that lack such valuable information.

“You need to use the paste exactly as much as indicated on the package. Some formulations are designed for daily use for 1-2 months, others are used 1-2 times a week. You definitely shouldn’t ignore this rule. If, during the whitening course, the sensitivity of hard tissues greatly increased, the gums began to become inflamed and bleed, or a rash appeared, stop using the product, switch to anti-inflammatory and remineralizing compounds, and consult a dentist,” explains Tatyana Varlamova, dental therapist.

To apply the product to your teeth, use a brush with soft bristles or medium hardness. Movements during cleaning should be careful and gentle. There is no need to vigorously rub the composition into hard tissues - you will not get the best effect from this, but you will definitely damage your teeth.

During the course of procedures and for 2 weeks after its completion, try to exclude foods and drinks with dyes from your diet, stop smoking, otherwise you may not get the promised effect of 1-2 tones.

Advantages and disadvantages of abrasive toothpastes

The presence of abrasives in toothpaste produces the following positive effects for humans:

• instant results;
• lightening of enamel up to 2 tones, which helps lighten teeth when smoking or privately drinking caffeine;
• safety for humans when applied correctly and after reading the instructions for use;
• affordable prices, lower than professional whitening;
• less harm compared to professional whitening.

Abrasive particles cause the following harm:

• thinning of the surface of the teeth;
• risk of microcracks in enamel;
• no effect when purchasing products with a low content of abrasive particles.

Not recommended!
If a person has a lot of fillings in their mouth, a product with abrasive particles is not recommended because the color of adjacent teeth will be different. The product cannot make the filling lighter.

Paste composition

How do abrasive pastes whiten enamel? They contain polishing and whitening particles, degrading agents and enzymes that prevent plaque deposits. The combination of these components quickly removes dental plaque mechanically and polishes the enamel surface.

Previously, the abrasive components of toothpastes were based on chalk and calcium compounds. Later, the use of ordinary chalk was abandoned, since it does not combine with the healing elements of the bleaching mass. Instead, chalk with a low concentration of iron and aluminum oxides is used in preparations.

One of the main components of bleaching products is silicon compound. These compounds combine well with any additives. The addition of fluoride is also a frequently used ingredient: fluoride compounds are especially useful in areas with low levels of this microelement in drinking water. However, if in your region the content of fluoride elements exceeds the norm, it is better to avoid such pastes.

Despite the ability of fluoride to effectively clean plaque from enamel, it can be harmful to teeth. Before purchasing a whitening paste, carefully study its composition. Instead of fluorine, it may contain its compounds:

• sodium monofluorophosphate;
• sodium fluoride;
• aminofluorides.

The abrasive properties of toothpaste can speed up the wear of enamel if you use the preparations unwisely.

Active substances

Thanks to these substances, you can achieve a visual effect of whiteness. These include:

• abrasives and polishing agents;
• enzymes that dissolve bacterial plaque;
• hydrogen peroxide and its compounds;
• complexing agents responsible for removing tartar and plaque.

Abrasive components include:

• silicon compounds;
• calcium carbonate;
• titanium dioxide;
• polyethylene;
• clay, soda;
• charcoal.

Silicon compounds (Silica, Hydrated Silica, aluminosilicates) help dissolve bacterial plaque and gently clean the surface of the tooth crown. These compounds do not cause allergic reactions and are tolerant to other components of the cleansing mass of the drug.

Calcium carbonate provides high abrasiveness to dental preparations, but has an aggressive effect on the enamel. The drug with this component should not be used by persons with weak enamel structure.

Titanium dioxide has a high abrasiveness and whitening effect. This component is included in almost all white toothpastes. Titanium dioxide is also used in artistic paints (white).

Polyethylene is sometimes included in whitening pastes, but this component can cause periodontal disease. Synthetic particles of the substance accumulate in periodontal pockets and attract bacteria. Many leading companies have refused to include polyethylene compounds in their products.

Clay is a natural substance with high abrasive properties. This component can be found in Thai toothpastes.

Enzymes in pastes

Enzymes are substances of natural origin. These include:

• papain;
• bromelain.

Papain is obtained from Carica papaya (melon tree). This substance promotes the breakdown of protein structures, its action is similar to gastric juice. With the help of papain, plaque actively dissolves and can be easily removed when brushing the teeth.

Bromelain is an extract from pineapple. In its effect on dental plaque, bromelain is similar to papain - it dissolves the protein structures of dental plaque.

Lightening components

These include aggressive acids in small doses:

• hydrogen peroxide;
• Urea peroxide.

In small proportions, these substances are weak in whitening and do not destroy the enamel structure. The whitening effect is achieved due to the abrasive components of toothpastes containing peroxide. However, for some reason, consumers believe in the whitening effect of peroxide more than in the action of enzymes and abrasives.

Removing Tartar

What components of toothpastes help soften and remove tartar? These include:

• potassium pyrophosphate;
• sodium pyrophosphate;
• sodium tripolyphosphate;
• sodium hexametaphosphate.

These compounds fight plaque well, but remove calcium salts from the enamel structure. This contributes to its thinning and demineralization.

What abrasive pastes best whiten enamel? They contain larger abrasive particles. They quickly eliminate visible pigmentation and polish the surface. However, you should not get carried away with whitening pastes: they quickly thin out the enamel layer. This threatens the development of hyperesthesia, that is, increased sensitivity of teeth to the thermal and acidic characteristics of food/drinks. Hyperesthesia brings a lot of discomfort while eating and brushing your teeth.

RDA index of toothpastes: table

Abrasiveness is determined depending on the rda index. They are listed in the table.

This is interesting: How to choose toothpaste

Attention! To prevent negative effects on teeth, the product is applied only as prescribed by the dentist.

Rating of popular products with abrasive particles

Some people believe that the best whitening toothpaste is one that contains polishing solids or microbeads. The number of such particles is usually indicated on the packaging by the abbreviation RDA (Relative Dentin Abrasivity - abrasivity index adopted by the American Dental Association). We emphasize that almost all pastes contain abrasives, just in different quantities:

• 20-30 RDA: this index can be assigned to therapeutic and prophylactic, but also to whitening paste for sensitive teeth,
• 30-50 RDA: suitable for children,
• 70-80 RDA: can be used on an ongoing basis for quite a long time. For example, 1-2 months in a row,
• 80-100 RDA: products that can make the enamel lighter by 1 tone. Can only be used after consultation with a dentist. Cannot be used continuously. After use, it is better to switch to remineralizing compounds,
• 120-200 RDA: This is the maximum allowable level of abrasiveness with which you can achieve a 2-tone effect. Only people with healthy teeth and gums are allowed to use it. They are used in courses with long breaks. For example, once a week.

Which whitening toothpaste is best? We have compiled a small rating based on consumer opinions.

PresiDENT

These are Italian-made toothpastes of decent quality. Many people also note that the manufacturer offers a wide range of products for every occasion.

Blend-a-med White 3D

Despite the fact that the manufacturer does not indicate the abrasiveness index, the product is very popular among consumers. This may be due to the fact that Blend-a-med White Luxe 3D is available in different designs and modifications: “Glamour”, “Delicate Whitening”, “Invigorating Freshness”, “Enamel Protection”. That is, each person will be able to choose exactly the option that he likes. In addition, it has a decent fluoride content of 1450 ppm, and this guarantees the strengthening and protection of the enamel from negative effects.

Dentists believe that the composition of all varieties of Blend-a-med White Luxe 3D is almost the same. Buyers are pleased with the quite budget price - from 200 rubles.

ROCS

How to choose a whitening toothpaste among the variety of products presented? Carefully read the information on the packaging and pay attention to the composition. The ROCS brand has prepared a varied selection for its customers:

• “Sensational whitening”: there is a very high amount of solid granules that help remove plaque - 139 RDA. As for fluoride, it is absent, but there is calcium glycerophosphate, which strengthens hard tissues no worse, and also polishes them to a shine,
• “Delicate whitening” with sweet mint: perfectly freshens breath. This includes a special mineral complex Enzime and Minerals, which prevents the development of caries and inflammatory processes in periodontal tissues,
• “Restoration and whitening” from the Sensitive series: without fluorine and polishing particles. Suitable for sensitive fabrics. Contains calcium hydroxyapatite, xylitol and magnesium,
• “Coffee and Tobacco”: suitable for everyone who has bad and not so bad habits. Effectively removes pigmented plaque, has an antibacterial effect, strengthens enamel due to incoming fluoride, relieves signs of inflammation on the mucous membrane,
• Pro Brackets & Ortho: A good option for maintaining the natural whiteness of enamel for those undergoing orthodontic treatment with braces.

Products from ROCS are in an affordable price segment - from 200 rubles.

Colgate Optical White

Many people prefer to use Colgate brand products, despite the lack of information about the abrasiveness index and the poor quality of the composition. What is the reason for such popularity? According to dentists, large-scale advertising of this brand and low cost - from 200 rubles - play a role here.

What can you say about this product? It contains fluorine in an amount of 1000 ppm, silicon dioxide and optical components that create a reflective film on the surface of the teeth. While you are using the product, you notice how the enamel shines and even becomes lighter, but immediately after stopping use the effect disappears.

LACALUT White

Here, the optimal content of abrasives and tooth-strengthening fluoride is 120 RDA and 1357 ppm. The manufacturer claims that the polishing microgranules have rounded edges, which prevents damage to hard tissues and promotes gentle and gentle cleaning. True, the composition contains methylparabens, which is very important for people with sensitive gums and those prone to allergic reactions to know.

The purchase price will be about 300 rubles.

SPLAT

In general, many SPLAT brand products contain the “SpWhite System BIO” formula, which promotes gentle plaque removal and enamel polishing, while providing an anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effect, strengthening hard tissues due to various natural components: tropical plant extracts, bromelain, calcium glycerophosphate, fluorine.

Adherents of this brand can recommend SPLAT Professional “Whitening Plus”, Special Dream for sensitive enamel with calcium hydroxyapatite, Blackwood and Black Lotus with charcoal. Price – from 200 rubles.

REMBRANDT Intense Stain

Professional bleaches such as REMBRANDT are not cheap - about 1,500 rubles per tube. But they can boast of a clearly proven safe composition and effectiveness. The product contains few abrasives - 85 RDA, but there is a good concentration of fluoride to fully strengthen teeth - 1500 ppm. Recommended for smokers, as well as people who abuse foods and drinks with coloring pigments.

Detartrine Z

Judging by the reviews, this expensive French-made product (1,400 rubles per tube) can cope not only with soft pigmented, but also partially mineralized plaque.

Crest 3D White brilliance

This is not a budget product. Price – about 800 rubles. However, consumers assure that Crest products are worth the money, because after its use, a protective three-dimensional film is formed on the enamel, which literally repels color pigment and also prevents plaque from catching, so teeth remain white longer.

Weleda

Here, according to the manufacturer, the composition is completely natural. Sea salt plays the role of an abrasive, which not only perfectly removes soft plaque, but also has an anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effect. In addition, Weleda increases salivation, and as you know, saliva cleanses the oral cavity of plaque and has protective properties. Price – from 300 rubles.

On a note! People considering the most budget-friendly, but at the same time relatively safe options can purchase Biomed White Complex - from 120 rubles, SILCA Arctic White - from 80 rubles, "New Pearl - Whitening" - from 60 rubles.

List of abrasive toothpastes

List of products without abrasive components and of high quality.

1. Lacalut White. The composition includes silicon dioxide, sodium, potassium hydroxide. The product removes plaque and stone, not aggressively, but gently. Rda coefficient 100 units.
2. President White Plus. Contains silicon dioxide, calcium glycerophosphate, fluorine. Rda 200 units. The effect appears during the day, the enamel brightens.
3. Silca artic white. Rda 80 units. Abrasives are applied to the teeth, softening and removing plaque. They do not destroy tissue. With prolonged application, the enamel becomes lighter.
4. Rembrandt anti-tobacco. Rda 110 units. Gently cleanses, removes plaque, brightens teeth when smoking and drinking coffee.
5. Rocs pro freshmint. Rda 139 units. Protection against caries, relieving inflammation, eliminating dark spots on enamel.
6. Splat whitening. Rda 90 units. High fluoride content, which strengthens teeth and prevents plaque accumulation and the formation of stones.

Not recommended!

Before purchasing, the condition of the teeth is taken into account. If they are susceptible to damage, the listed products are not recommended.

Using whitening pastes

Since after bleaching the enamel becomes most sensitive to dyes, manufacturers do not recommend drinking coffee, smoking or eating chocolate for several hours after using the pastes.

If there is a lot of hard plaque and tartar on your teeth, it is advisable to first remove these formations in the dental office. Toothpastes will not be able to cope with a large amount of work: they have a preventive effect, not a curative one.

If you have fillings on your front teeth, they will become more visible due to whitening. Keep this in mind. Your smile will become unattractive due to the contrasting color of your enamel and fillings. Perhaps pastes containing hydrogen peroxide will solve the problem.

Pros and cons of non-abrasive toothpastes

Before purchasing a product, it is recommended to look at the composition. If it contains no abrasives, it has the following positive aspects:

• no excessive impact on the enamel, preservation of integrity, prevention of microcracks;
• soft effect when removing plaque;
• content of microelements and vitamins that saturate the surface of the teeth;
• contains antibacterial agents that prevent the proliferation of microbes;
• Possibility of daily use without harm to health.

This is interesting: Tooth cyst

Non-abrasive pastes have disadvantages:

• no whitening effect;
• there is no way to remove stains on enamel after cigarettes and coffee;
• lack of therapeutic effect for thinning enamel, inflammation of the gums.

Additional Information!

If the paste contains grain, plaque is cleaned without the use of abrasive components.

Tips for choosing pasta

Ideally, an effective whitening paste should be recommended by a dentist based on an examination of the enamel coating and the natural color of the teeth. However, citizens of our country do not want to visit the dental office again and prefer to choose whitening drugs intuitively.

Before purchasing a whitening paste, you should consider some features of its use:

• Naturally yellow enamel cannot be whitened with paste;
• Teeth sensitive to food temperature will become even more sensitive after using abrasive pastes;
• for a Hollywood smile, photo-whitening in a dental clinic is more suitable than using pastes;
• if your teeth begin to hurt after brushing with the paste, you should give them a break from whitening;
• Multiple tartar cannot be removed with paste - you will have to go to the dentist;
• abrasive pastes are not products for daily use, otherwise dental problems cannot be avoided;
• When using abrasive whitening pastes, take care of additional mineralization of teeth using calcium, potassium, and sodium preparations;
• before purchasing the drug, carefully read its composition;
• Don't let children use your abrasive toothpaste to avoid premature wear of enamel.

Remember that high abrasive properties lead to rapid wear of teeth, so adhere to reasonable moderation in application.

Non-abrasive toothpaste: list

Dentists recommend a list of non-abrasive toothpastes that improve the quality of teeth.

1. Safety suitable for children and adults. The composition includes plant extracts that eliminate inflammation.
2. Parodontax. Apply daily, which improves hygiene indicators. Contains microelements that improve the quality of the tooth surface. Antiseptic substances destroy bacteria.
3. Prevention and treatment of gum inflammation. It is used from the age of 12. The contained microelements heal wounds and microcracks in the gums.
4. Splat Professional Ultracomplex. The composition includes plant components with a regenerating, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory effect. The risk of hypersensitivity to the components of the product and damage to dental tissue is reduced.
5. Biorepair intensive night. Natural components restore enamel, eliminating the negative effects of bacteria overnight. In the morning there is no unpleasant smell or accumulation of plaque.

When choosing a toothpaste for daily application, read the indicated composition. It may contain abrasive ingredients that are not suitable for all users. They are used for a whitening effect and strengthening enamel.

The benefits and harms of whitening compounds

Pros: reducing the amount of soft plaque, preventing the accumulation of mineralized deposits, which are the main cause of inflammatory processes in periodontal tissues, leading to tooth loss. Products with abrasives and carbamide peroxide make the smile attractive and the enamel well-groomed, smooth and shiny. They help remove color pigment caused by smoking or drinking certain foods (drinks). They help maintain the results of office (professional) whitening performed in the dentist's office.

Why is whitening toothpaste dangerous?

• can make the enamel thin, contribute to the formation of cracks and the development of caries, the appearance of erosions,
• increases the sensitivity[2] of hard tissues: during and after use, teeth may begin to react to the temperature of food, hurt from sour, salty and sweet foods, as well as during brushing,
• in the presence of dental problems and contraindications, it contributes to the aggravation of the situation,
• erases the thin protective layer of hard tissue that prevents the destructive activity of bacteria.

Rules of application

First of all, any attempt to whiten your teeth should be discussed with your dentist. The Internet is full of stories of beauty victims who only harmed themselves in pursuit of a smile. Their methods were absurd, but what can a person who wants to achieve results “here and this minute” not come up with? You can judge which toothpaste whitens teeth better based on our rating, but you still need a dentist: he will tell you which toothpaste is right for you.

Don't forget about these universal rules:

• If you bought a toothpaste, but discovered that your teeth are hypersensitive, stop using it immediately and switch to regular toothpaste. Such procedures should not cause pain, this is not normal.
• Alternate whitening paste with formulations designed for sensitive teeth. This way you will strengthen the enamel.
• After a whitening course, try to maintain the achieved effect with the right diet.

Tags: at home, toothpaste, review, teeth whitening, whitening paste, rating

About the author: DrZubastik

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