Important facts you need to know about toothpaste

There are so many types of toothpastes on the market and while many people choose a brand or flavor that they like, there is something else that you need to know before choosing which type of toothpaste you are going to use.

What is RDA?

All types of toothpaste are measured in a way that is not disclosed on the actual product and this measurement is called the “relative dentin abrasivity,” or RDA. Each toothpaste has its own RDA that measures how abrasive the toothpaste is to your teeth.

Every company that makes toothpaste is required by the FDA to continuously monitor the RDA of their products and they have to let the FDA know what their measurements are in order to get approval. The unusual fact is that companies are not required to put the RDA on the label or the packaging.

Toothpaste abrasives

The abrasives in toothpaste are ingredients that are necessary in order to remove stains and debris from the teeth. Types of abrasives include calcium pyrophosphate, silica and aluminum oxide. The American Dental Association has its own set of regulations that toothpastes must adhere to in order to gain their ADA Seal of Acceptance. They do have guidelines for the RDA of a toothpaste and each type of toothpaste receives a score from 0-250.

If a toothpaste receives a score of 0-70, it is considered to be a low abrasive toothpaste. Toothpastes that are between 70-100 are medium abrasives, 100-150 are high abrasives and 150-250 are considered harmful limits.

Toothpastes that have a low RDA are typically not going to cause any damage to your enamel or dentin. Toothpastes are considered to be safe to use when they have a low abrasitivity level.

RDA scores

Below is a short list of some types of toothpastes and their RDA level for comparison.

If you brush just with tap water, the RDA score is 4. Brushing with baking soda has an RDA score of 7.

• Arm and Hammer Dental Care toothpaste has a score of 35

• Colgate Cavity Protection toothpaste has a score of 70

• Arm and Hammer Advance White toothpaste has a score of 106

• Crest Extra Whitening toothpaste has a score of 130

• Colgate Advance Whitening toothpaste has a score of 200

There is great debate as to what abrasivity level is best for consumers to use. In order to make the best decision, it is best to ask your dentist for a recommendation as to which type of toothpaste will be best for your specific oral health needs.