Here’s What You Should Look For In Toothpaste and Mouthwash, and Our Top Picks

RE: Your statement included above: "Although unrelated to the effects of fluoride, it may be prudent to brush your teeth after eating breakfast, as brushing before breakfast has been linked with increased risk of dental erosion"
Bartlett, J Dent 2013)." [ Found in your article: > FAQs about toothpastes and other dental products.>> Should you floss before or after brushing?>>> 3rd paragraph>>>> 1st sentence ] is not supported by your citing: Source cited: Barlett, J Dent 2013
"Prevalence of tooth wear on buccal and lingual surfaces and possible risk factors in young European Adults"
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24004965/
The only mention of brushing before eating breakfast:
"We found no evidence that waiting after breakfast before tooth brushing has any effect on the degree of tooth wear (p=0.088)."

I bought the Sensodyne Fresh Mint because you said it has abrasiveness of 36-66. Many RDA websites all say that the abrasiveness is 90. Which form of Sensodyne Pronamel has low RDA?

Looking for a toothpaste tested for heavy metals... no special needs just a safe toothpaste no heavy metals.. what is your recommendation

I get that applying fluoride by brush may help but I will never understand why water containing fluoride that passes quickly over your teeth and is swallowed into your body does any good.

Dear CL, Please add a note that Chlorhexidine stains teeth. Stains can be removed but they are unsightly. Also, some people have an allergy to this medication.

Grey info. I would love to know how much heavy metals do bentonite clay products have.

Years ago I used Glister toothpaste by Amway and stopped getting cavities and so much plaque buildup. The true test came that it worked was not able to see a dentist for over 2 years and after using Glister, no cavities or minimal need for teeth cleaning. Then started using Nature's Sunshine toothpaste with same results. I now us Doterra's toothpaste and hygienist has little to almost none cleaning to do. No cavities in decades.

What do you think of toothpaste that contain both Fluoride and 10% Nano-Hydroxyapatite like Dr Jen's Super Paste Toothpaste?

What about Biomin toothpaste? It's already available in the US (Dr. Collins Biomin Restore).

For sensitive teeth, I use a combination of Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief Enamel Repair and Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief Repair & Prevent.

Dentist doing a filling, she drilled what seemed oddly long. Thought like 3 times how much longer is it gonna be. After that, couldn't use that side of the mouth anymore. Strong pain, even with stuff like sandwiches.

The dentist recommended Sensodyne, tried that for a while, seemed to make no difference.

Then I tried these Colgate ones (alternating between them), they've worked very well for me. Now hardly ever feel the pain there. And with the enamel repair one, I think my teeth feel significantly smoother after (although just temporary).

Should note, neither contain fluoride so you can alternate with a 3rd one that contains fluoride if you believe in using that.

Can you write about toothpaste such as Mi Paste that contains Recaldent that was recommended by my dentist? Is it as effective as other ADA approved products? From their website they say this: "RECALDENT® (CPP-ACP) is derived from milk casein."

I am trying to avoid any dentals that contain xylitol due to GI issues, even toothpastes. I am currently using a Dr. Bronner's toothpaste (cinnamon) that does not contain xylitol and has other flavors as well. Has this brand been tested? Also, have you tested a toothpaste call Revitin, also xylitol free?

Great research here. Can you please provide all your Top Picks recommendations in a table format (like you typically do towards the end)? There is a lot of information and recommendations here (almost overwhelming :) so I understand it won't be easy. However, its so much easier to review and pick from all the recommendations in the table format. Thank you so much.

I recently started using Dr. Michele's tooth mineralizing powder. You are told to brush with it for 2 minutes after brushing your teeth as normal and spit it out but do not rinse. Any advice about that?

I use two Tom’s of Maine toothpastes for my son (a fluoride and a non-fluoride, called ‘Silly Strawberry.’ This is the first I’ve heard of this and it’s alarming.

I would like to avoid toothpaste containing Xylitol due to concerns about blood clots. Can you recommend any which are Xylitol-free?

Based upon your last toothpaste update I switched to Tom's of Maine Simply White. How concerned should I be regarding the current FDA warning about Tom's using contaminated water in the making of their that product?

You recommended Biotene Dry Mouth Oral Rinse. However, looking at the ingredients which included methylparaben and proplyparaben, I thought parabens were to be avoided

The market in now offering more toothpastes that contain both enzymes and fluoride. I use them to support gum health, not for whitening. The first brand I used came from France. Today I am using White Glo.

I like the taste of crystal geyser water the best but concerned over the level of fluoride in it, even though it is natural fluoride

Fluoride is not the only way to avoid cavities. I haven’t used fluoride since the late 1990’s. No cavities since! I use toothpaste with xylitol. Hydroxyapatite toothpastes have become quite popular for preventing enamel loss.

Even though I've been fastidious in taking care of my teeth, I have a long history of cavities. I have a very healthy diet in every aspect. I brush 2-3 times a day, floss and use a waterpik. So frustrating. About 8 months ago I suddenly noticed my teeth looking transparent - frightening. I switched toothpaste to one with hydroxyapatite that also has fluoride. I was shocked how within a month my teeth were suddenly sparkling white. OK, so I continued. Now, months later, my teeth have no more transparent areas. They've never looked better. I use a hydroxyapatite and fluoride toothpaste along with a fluoride mouthwash and a hydroxyapatite chewable mouthwash.

I don’t see any guidance on carbonated (fizzy) waters, or mineral water. What is the guidance on these? I don’t drink soda or sports drinks. Thank you for responding!

I also get gum irritation when using the major brand toothpastes. I'm assuming it's contact stomatitis due to SLS or stannous fluoride.

I had a reaction to stannous fluoride when I started one of the Sensodyne toothpastes. My lips swelled horribly to almost splitting and it was my husband that made the connection to the toothpaste change. My dentist at the time did not have any clues for the origin of the swelling. Now I use Sensodyne with a different active and have no problems.

I've noticed that cinnamon-flavored toothpaste and mouthwash seem to have disappeared over time. I prefer that flavor to mint. Is there a reason for this?

In your article on water filters, you wrote "Fluoride — Typically, not something to filter out." But how could one eliminate fluoride from tap water if one wanted to? THANK YOU once again!

I am surprised that you did not mention "Biotene". It does not have SLS which has been linked to canker sores.

I use Boka Lemon-Lavender Toothpaste and it calms my gums really well.
Any information on Closys Mouthwash? It contains chlorine dioxide and comes without mint flavoring so it is very gentle.
I only use it once a week as mouthwash can disrupt the oral microbiome

A factor to consider is that Xylitol is poisonous to dogs so you may not want to have products such as toothpaste/gum lying around your house if you have dogs.

Hello,
Thank you for this informative article. Have you considered reviewing Weldental products? I notice you included tooth pastes and powders, but did not see tablets.

No mention of Peelu, unless I missed it. I don't have an argument against fluoride in toothpaste, which of course you have a choice of using. Fluoride in drinking water, where many do not have a choice, is another story.

I've used only Arm & Hammer baking soda for many years and have had very little plaque and no cavities. Additional advantages are that it leaves no aftertaste and can even be swallowed if necessary. Of course, it doesn't contain fluoride, but I consider that an advantage.

My dentist has prescribed ClinPro 5000, for use once daily. He did this because of tooth sensitivity and some receding gums. I've asked for more tubes from the dentist's office, and they hand them over to me with no apparent concern. Is it appropriate to use this long-term? What should I be careful about?

is the recall on Dr. Ginger's toothpaste too ?

I recently read the Wirecutter on David's. Is that any better? It uses nano-hydroxyapatite. I don't think it has FDA approval yet.

Have you researched Therabreath toothpaste? I’ve been using it because it doesn’t cause sensitivity and there’s no strong taste like regular toothpastes.

My family is using “TOMS OF MAINE Cinnamon Clove Whole Care Toothpaste,” which contains fluoride but does not have mint or menthol. This has been a good solution for two of our family members who strongly dislike the smell or taste of mint.

I use this toothpaste - CariFree Gel 1100 Anti-Cavity Fluoride Toothpaste with Nano Hydroxyapatite. Has Consumer Lab reviewed this yet? Thanks!

Have you ever reviewed Desert Essence toothpastes? I have been using their toothpaste for years after having sensitivity to many of the products labeled "For Sensitive Teeth". I am quite satisfied by its performance.

I use the Natural Dentist mouthwash. It has greatly helped with my bleeding gums and overall gum health.

I've been using Jason Power Smile (all natural) mouthwash for years and it's seemed to work well.

I’ve seen numerous patients with sudden, high blood pressure that resolved as soon as I recommended that they STOP using mouthwash. The chemicals in mouthwash can disrupt the microbiome in the mouth thereby lowering nitric oxide production!

Regarding Listerine Total Care Zero Alcohol, it is my understanding that it contains sodium laurel sulfate, which can be harsh on the delicate tissues of the mouth.

Anyone use Himalaya toothpaste? I seem to be having great results for 3 years.

Please review OraNurse unflavoured toothpaste 1450. This is a UK brand but usually available on Amazon. It is SLS free. Flavor free. Contains fluoride. I want fluoride. Most of the SLS free toothpastes with fluoride are mint flavored and mint/menthol causes mouth irritation for me. Other brand suggestions are welcome.

I see that hydroxy apatite is addressed, including the nano version, which is great! I also appreciate the fact that tested HA toothpastes were deemed 'not inferior' to fluoride. Thanks.

Carifree Gel 1100 which you mention, is a great toothpaste, but you don't list it in your abrasiveness chart. They publish its abrasiveness (https://carifree.com/product/gel-1100/): RDA 40.

The Top Pick for mouthwash contains alcohol, which contradicts a statement in same article about avoiding products containing alcohol. What am I missing?

My favorite toothpaste is made by 3M! It is called Clinpro Tooth Cream. It has Fluoride and tri-calcium phosphate. The taste is absolutely amazing and after I brush at night I never wake up with a film on my teeth like I do with other toothpastes. Clinpro 5000 is a prescription version that Dentists use for patients with special teeth problems. Clinpro (without the '5000') is the consumer version. I just noticed it has titanium dioxide that you mention some people might want to consider avoiding--I'll have to think about that.

Can you tell me about the toothpaste Smileactives? See it advertized on TV and seems to do a good job. Thanks

Re foaminess and sodium laurel sulfate, I wonder if you can test Squigle Enamel Saver fluoride toothpaste, which doesn't have SLS in it. A friend finds that Squigle has helped with mouth sores.

I switched to Xyli-White by Now foods and like the way my teeth feel. I have very sensitive teeth but cant stand the residue feeling from most of the toothpastes for sensitive teeth. I mentioned the switch to my dentist and he seemed ok with dropping the fluoride but stated "we'll see how everything looks next time"

Didn't have time to read the full article however what I did read did not shed any information about fluoride killing off the oral microbiome.

Coconut oil pulling studies lasting 4 and 7 days lack reasonable duration and as such are nearly useless. Is there nothing more?

When contrasting the effects of rinsing the mouth with chlorhexidine to those of rinsing with coconut oil, one should also consider that in addition to reducing plaque formation, chlorhexidine disrupts healthy bacteria in the mouth for a period of time. Among other things, disrupting a healthy oral biome can have effects on blood pressure.

There is a little known toothpaste called Ipsab by Heritage Store/ Baar Products. Years ago, I needed to go every 4 months to get my teeth cleaned. Then, I started using Ipsab (available on Amazon). The next time I went to get my teeth cleaned the dentist thought that I had started using a power teeth cleaner. Now when I go to my new dentist (old one retired), even with a 6-month appointment, they exclaim that there is little tartar on my teeth and little cleaning is needed.

It appears to be impossible to get a flouridated toothpaste without titanium dioxide and without sodium lauryl sulfate or other questionable chemicals.

What about brushing without using toothpaste? I read somewhere that no-paste brushing can get your teeth cleaner. You won’t get any fluoride but you won’t get any other chemicals either. Plus couldn’t you just use a toothpaste as a mouthwash after brushing if you want the chemicals after no- paste brushing?

I understand that some bacteria can digest glycerine. What do we know about whether or not glycerine in tooth care products can encourage the growth of bacteria that cause tooth decay?

Regarding recycling of toothpaste tubes (and toothbrushes and other oral care disposables), I've been sending them to a free program on terracycle. However I've also read that terracycle is mostly greenwashing and actually recycles very little to nothing. Does anyone know if terracycle actually recycles the toothpaste tubes (and other oral care disposables)? They have a similar program with razors, though you have to pay for shipping on that one.

I find that my composite bonding has ended up whiter than my natural enamel because it has slowly become stained or just darker with age so using white strips which you say doesn’t whiten the composite restorations works out well because it helps bring my natural teeth closer to the restored teeth.

Perhaps not rinsing after brushing doesn't present a fluoride toxicity issue, but have you ever noticed that even when you *do* rinse (even several times) that there's a tremendous amount of toothpaste "suds" left over? How can swallowing all that residual foam (of whatever ingredients) not be bad for you?

I recently tried Biotene toothpaste and found that it leaves a a rough film on my teeth. Do you know what that is? I like their other products fo dry mouth.

I'm surprised to read that "...soft toothbrushes being more abrasive than medium or hard toothbrushes." It seems counterintuitive. Most dentists (I thought) recommended soft toothbrushes. How can softer be more abrasive? Is this accurate?

Your article advises not swishing with a fluoride rinse after using a fluoride toothpaste for decreasing sensitivity and strengthening the tooth surface, because the rinse has less fluoride than the toothpaste. It also advises to not drink for 1/2 hr after brushing. I always was told to rinse my mouth out after brushing, so as not to swallow toothpaste. This is contradictory. How can I leave the toothpaste in my mouth, but not swallow any? Why would drinking plain water after brushing remove the fluoride more than rinsing after brushing?

Has any research been done into Theodent and its "magic ingredient" Rennou which is touted as a healthier alternative to fluoride?

I tried the recommended Colgate produce for sensitive teeth, and became extremely sensitive. I switched back to Sensodyne and the issue resolved.

What about including glycine in toothpaste? Crest has a glycine product (Advanced Gum Restore), and I believe glycine is included in some of the products used by dental hygienists. Also, is there any viable evidence supporting the use of oral health specific probiotics?

I recently saw a periodontist to evaluate a tooth some exposed root that my dentist was concerned about. To prevent tartar and plaque build-up, the period recommended using TheraSol Tartar Dissolver. Has CL ever evaluated that product? It's readily available on Amazon and other sources.

Wondering if you can include effects of lifestyle practices in this.

I have a problem with toothpaste causing my mouth and tongue to burn and epithelial cells inside my mouth to peel. After trying many brands I found Life Extension toothpaste does not cause this
problem.

Does method of application matter, i.e. manual vs electric toothbrush?

It appears that "Colgate TotalSF Fresh Mint Stripe Gel Toothpaste" is not available in Canada. :(
Does anyone know an equivalent?

I recently switch to purchasing spring and reverse osmosis water, neither of which contains flouride. I'm concerned about not having the flouride. Is it possible (and safe) to add flouride on your own?

Crest Pro Health Sensitive and enamel Shield cause me to have a horrible dry cotton mouth type experience for 24 hours, then burning. I unfortunately used it twice as I wasnt sure if it was toothpaste. A terrible experience. I have used sensodyne for years and no effects, so unsure what cause this, but through it in the trash and wondered if anyone has experienced this? Thanks

Is anyone familiar with Unitein toothpaste from Green Eastern? It makes claims that is is effective in reducing gum issues and improving general gum health.

You advise waiting 30 min. after eating before brushing teeth to allow time for oral acidity to neutralize. I think I achieve the same effect by rinsing my mouth with a solution of baking powder dissolved in water immediately after eating I'm then free to brush immediately without brushing my teeth with acid.

I found Lumineux oral care products at Whole Foods 8 months ago and now I see it everywhere. I got great results with the whitening strips and toothpaste and I am very pleased with its non-toxic ingredients - no peroxide, SLS, alcohol. Ingredient lists seems very non-threatening. Wish yo would add it to your list to be evaluated. Might be a very healthy alternative to some of the more advertised products.

When I first started using a mouthwash containing cetyl pyridinium it stopped a lifelong bleeding gum problem dead - I've been a fan ever since and won't use a wash not containing it.

The article says, "Keep in mind that if you do use a mouthwash (with or without fluoride), some experts advise against using it right after brushing, as it may dilute the concentration of fluoride on your teeth from your toothpaste. . . ." However, don't all of us rinse well with water after brushing? Doesn't rinsing with water also dilute fluoride on the teeth? Does mouthwash remove more fluoride than water? (Unless I'm rushed, I wait a couple of minutes before rinsing with water, to allow the fluoride to work; does doing that matter?)

How about Saccharine in Crest toothpaste and other brands.. Is it bad and does it cause cancer ??

I have been advised by expert researcher Nathan Bryan MD that any flouride in dental products & mouthwash will interfere with nitric oxide production in our bodies. Nitric oxide is crucial for cardiac, cognition & immune function, especially age related diseases

I see you do actually cover bioglass toothpaste, but you might want to address the concerns with nanoparticle hydroxyapatites. I've encountered some disturbing research and just a smidge of reassurance so far. I haven't stopped using my Biomin toothpaste and the even-better zinc hydroxyapatite BioRepair, which work spectacularly well on my sensitive teeth, but I'm unsettled. Thanks.

ConsumerLab, I am SO appreciative of your work, thank you!
Your top pick for desensitizing toothpaste--Colgate Total Fresh Mint Stripe Gel Toothpaste--has Sucralose in it, an artificial sweetener that the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) advises avoiding due to health concerns about cancer. ConsumerLab as well notes that Sucralose is related to increased blood cancer risk in animal research. (Note: I have no financial connection to this product or any competing product.) I've noticed a lot of dental products (toothpaste, mouthwash) have sucralose and also Aloe Vera, which CSPI also recommends avoiding related to cancer risk.

I find it curious that a toothpaste with an abrasiveness level of 140-160 is your Top Pick for desensitizing toothpaste.

I don't see SLS mentioned anywhere as a ingredient to be aware of, though there are many toothpastes that don't include it. Is sodium lauryl sulfate something to be concerned about in terms of health or teeth sensitivity?

I have personally found Opalescence Whitening Toothpaste--Cool Mint Sensitivity Relief to be very effective in helping reduce tooth sensitivity. It is commercially available and my own dentist told me they use the Opalescence brand in their in-office treatments.

Another product I recommend for tooth sensitivity, whitening and remineralization is OraWellness Shine tooth powder. They are a family owned business with hundreds of positive testimonials for their products. Whenever I have a sensitivity flare-up, I add the powder on top of the Opalescence and it reduces the sensitivity surprisingly quickly.

I have no financial interest or personal connection to either of these two companies.

I'm confused as to why CL's latest recommendation for sensitive teeth is a toothpaste that has whitening ingredient(s) in it, which definitely makes my teeth more sensitive. What is the recommendation for those who wish to avoid ingredients making teeth even more sensitive?

Can you give list of SLS free toothpastes with fluoride that would be available at common stores like Target, Walgreens, etc.? I have not been able to find any that say SLS free and in your article mention only listed one - Livfresh??, I believe, which I cant find anywhere. Thank you!

It would be nice to have information on Sensodyne Gentle Whitening toothpaste. Most of the Sensodyne products listed in the review here are unavailable at the CVS where I shop. I've been using the Gentle Whitening formula for quite a while now and have a mouthful of implants, veneers, and crowns as well as natural teeth. I've seen no ill effects, but I would still like to know the kind of whitener and how much is contained in the product.

I have brushed only with baking soda ( rinsed thoroughly) and finish with a swish of hydrogen peroxide rinse for years and have white teeth with no cavities ( and without that toothpaste after- taste.)

A little surprised there's no entry for Colgate-Palmolive Ultra Brite, perhaps the first "whitening" toothpaste and still popular. I only mention it as a long time consumer, and very satisfied.

Though Chlorhexidine mouth wash is prescription only, chlorhexidine solution is available over the counter in many forms. It is easy to dilute it to required concentration. I bought a gallon for animals and use it undiluted for cleaning wounds, sterilizing skin, and in a .02% solution that I spray on toothbrush before brushing my dog’s teeth every nite. At 11years old, my German Shepherd has healthy gums.

Been using Biotene for years with no issues. My advice, if having stomach issues, is to avoid the lozenges and use the mouth rinse.

Do you have any information about the agents used in nighttime teeth guards, eg those sold at www.smilebrilliant.com?

Your topic Biotene contains sorbitol beware that sorbitol can be hard on the digestive system to those sensitive to it. It brought on flatulence and eventually diarrhea for me when I took lozenges that had it. I’ve seen comments of others on Amazon that were also affected this way.

I’m replying to the comment about Xylimelts not sticking. I’ve been using them for 1 1/2 years and they’ve ALWAYS stuck if applied correctly.

Xylimelts sent a sample of their product when they were first hitting the market.At the time I had been suffering from nitetime dry mouth and drooling at the same time(go figure).Xylimelt solved one problem and I have been using it ever since.Got any ideas on how to stop the drooling.Jack 3622

Biotene is no longer the same ingredients and is owned and operated by new company. SALIVEA is a new mouth spray that has copied the old ingredients Biotene used to use. https://www.salivea.com/salivea-store/salivea-hydrating-mouthspray

OraCoat makes Xylimelt. It reduces dry mouth. Recommended by my dentist years ago, The Stick-On Melts stimulate saliva. I use a sleep apnea machine and use a Xylimelt nightly with good results. I like the Mild-Mint flavour.

Bleeding gums can also be caused by a food allergy.

One thing that my spouse (who had bleeding gums) and I have been doing for at least 5 years now is using a homemade saline solution before brushing. We swish it around in our mouth for about half a minute every time before we brush our teeth. This is a solution that we read about in a homeopathic dental book or website (I don't recall).

How it's made: boil some water, then add to a pint-sized Mason jar into which you've added 2 tablespoons of salt. Stir then let cool and cover the jar and then use the solution from the jar. The type of salt used is the salt that's used is Morton Canning and Pickling Salt, which is in a 4-pound box. My spouse's bleeding gums are back to normal, although he also has a Waterpik he regularly uses on a daily basis too. Note that I've got sensitive teeth and the saline solution helps with this too--I believe it may help balance the pH in the mouth so as to make the acids less prevalent and harmful.

For the pass couple of years, I have been using Himalaya herbal toothpaste which does not contain any flouride, so my fluoride intake comes from mainly the tap water. I also gurgle daily with cod liver oil + coconut oil and have never had a tooth ache or any gum related issue since using this protocol- go figure!

Question about toxicity of dental floss.
Thank you for your very informative article on toothpaste and oral hygiene in general. I am wondering whether CL has researched dental floss, specifically, whether there is toxicity in certain brands. I stopped using Glide dental floss since I learned it is made using PFAS, or polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). PFAS exposure is associated with kidney and testicular cancer, ulcerative colitis, and ither health conditions.
I would very much appreciate it if CL would provide a postscript to your article on oral health or an upcoming review on the topic.
Many thanks

Because I am sensitive to mint, I tried to find a toothpaste without any flavoring, to be on the safe side. I found a product made by Cleure which has as ingredients:
Purified Water, Xylitol, Dicalcium Phosphate, Glycerin, Sodium Bicarbonate, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate. It does not have fluoride, which might help with my crowns, but at least I am doing well with it. The taste and feel of it is something to get used to.

I have rinsed my mouth with full-strength (3%) hydrogen peroxide for approximately 30 to 60 seconds prior to brushing my teeth for decades with great results. I remember that the first few days I started, it did sting somewhat and foam a lot. The stinging subsided after a couple days, though the foaming continued for a while. These days I experience little to no foaming. My teeth have stayed white without any other whitening products.

Based on a (apparently scandalous) recommendation from an unconventional dentist many years ago (based on his own practice), I brush only once a day and irrigate (with an antiseptic rinse diluted to 50%) once a week prior to brushing. To maximize the duration of fluoride application, I only spit out and do not rinse my fluoride-containing toothpaste after brushing. I do sometimes but not always chew sugar-free gum after meals.

I have had no new cavities or experienced halitosis since I was young (before I began my current regimen), and my dentist and dental hygienist always remark at checkups that my teeth and mouth are very clean and in excellent shape, and to "keep doing what I'm doing."

My unorthodox approach seems to have worked very well for me over the years. Much of it is against conventional professional guidelines so I cannot necessarily recommend it to others (particularly the brushing only once per day and irrigating—not flossing—once per week), but the results of my approach have so far been very positive for me. Consider it a data point, if you will.

I like Squigle Enamel Saver toothpaste because it has xylitol and does not burn my mouth the way mass market brands do.

What about edathamil, the active ingredient in Livfresh toothpaste, which claims "to be 250% more effective at removing plaque than a market leader, according to a double-blind published study at the University of California, Irvine Beckman Laser Institute"? I found an NIH study that appears to back them up. It also has no "abrasives, antimicrobials, parabens, gluten, sugar, triclosan, or SLS." I have periodontal issues and am intrigued by this and would love to know ConsumerLab's assessment.

After some serious issues at the periodontist, I took the lab report showing the strains that were attacking my mouth and read the papers I could find on the NIH site. In looking for solutions (pun intended) I settled on xylitol and erythritol (based on some studies that suggested that erythritol was even better than xylitol at breaking down biofilms). There was evidence showing that xylitol didn't harm beneficial oral bacteria; does fluoride kill the beneficial strains in the oral microbiome? So for the most part, I use Sprye's toothpaste that contains both of those, and their mouthwash that does the same. Since the strains that showed up on the lab report were anaerobes, I also alternate with toothpastes and mouthwash that oxygenate. So no more periodontal issues for me so far; I'm 70 y.o., haven't lost any teeth (other than wisdoms) and foresee a healthy mouth in the future (note: getting rid of high starch and sugar is helpful for your mouth and body overall). It's obvious that your teeth can be in great shape given a little awareness, common sense and a healthy lifestyle.

I only use toothpaste containing triclosan. It is FDA approved, it prevents gingivitis, and is the only thing that keeps my mouth and breath fresh all day long. Never had any thyroid issues. I only see the dentist once a year and each time he says my teeth have no issues.

Dr. Collins Biomin does not contain fluoride but it also does not contain sodium lauryl sulfate. Biomin C and Biomin F made in other countries both have sodium lauryl sulfate so I would prefer to use The Dr. Collins toothpaste and then use a mouthwash containing fluoride. What do you think?

My teeth are sensitive to acids in fruits. What works for me most of the time is alternating between using Sensodyne ProNamel and Tom's of Maine Rapid Relief Sensitive Toothpaste.

A trick I use in eating more acidic fruit is I always have a little bit of plain yogurt with the fruit, which ensures that the acid in the fruit doesn't make my teeth sensitive. I also completely avoid eating certain fruits or fruit juices that make my teeth sensitive no matter what, such as mango, Starburst candy, etc.

Help me understand how ADA acceptance is relevant?

The article states that no US based toothpastes have had Triclosan in them since 2019 but Colgate Total does have Triclosan. This should be corrected as I was confused, thinking that Colgate had removed the Triclosan.

I'm disappointed that you don't give a more thorough treatment to the phosphosilicates here, which barely get a mention in the densesitizing ingredients. There is clinical evidence that these cutting-edge bioglass ingredients have better long term efficacy than other desensitizing agents. However, that is not their only benefit. The fluoridated formulations provide a layer of fluorapatite mineralization to the teeth that is more acid resistant than hydroxyapatite, and also provide the additional benefit of a much longer lasting fluoride concentration in the mouth than regular fluoride toothpastes, all while using much lower levels of fluoride in the formula, due to the unique slow-release properties of these minerals together. Please consider adding additional information on the unique science of these novel ingredients. Biomin-F was recently approved for sale in the US without a prescription, and has been available in Canada for some time. I use this toothpaste, but have no affiliation with the company or any other, I just want the information out there!

I can't believe you didn't address SLS in toothpaste which is a problem for many. I get sores on my tongue when I use any toothpaste with with that ingredient. Also Colgate? I received a sample from my dentist and was shocked to see Triclosan as an ingredient.

I found the Therabreath toothpaste is the best for eliminating gum disease and bad breath.

I have checked the labels of several brands of toothpaste and none of them list an RDA (Relative Dentin Abrasivity) a measure of the abrasivity a toothpaste. As the article indicates, higher abrasivity may not be a good thing. Where do you get this information?

This report applies to natural teeth. What about veneers?

What about products like Pronamel that claim to rebuild and restore tooth enamel. Do they work, and what ingredients cause this action?

Every time I use an SLS containing toothpaste guaranteed canker sores. Good luck with Burt’s Bees Deep Clean. Only Tom’s of Maine without SLS is Charcoal brand but too abrasive. Wish they offered more SLS-free fluoride options.

Everyone in my family gets canker sores from sodium lauryl sulfate added to most of the toothpastes you recommend! Since Sensodyne Pronamel has fluoride, whitening, and NO sodium lauryl sulfate to irritate gums, why is it not a "Top Pick"?

What about enamel protection or strengthening? Any research to report?

I had been using a Crest Whitening toothpaste which actually stained them. I did an online search and found articles stating that the ingredient stannous fluoride causes staining in some people. I must be one of the unlucky ones.
I now read the labels and buy only sodium fluoride pastes but after 6 months, I'm still struggling to rid the stains especially between the teeth.

What is in toothpaste that causes mucus?

So fluoride intake is good as long as you don't ingest enough to cause toxicity? ????

Never used flouride and haven't had a cavity in 30 years. Use, a mixture of salt, baking soda, kaolin clay, peppermint oil.

I have been using Sensodyne (with whitening) for years. Now I need to examine the ingredients closely. Thanks.

One of the world's most important scientific journals. Nature, has published a special news feature on water fluoridation, focusing on the Fluoride Action Network's federal court case against the U.S. EPA and quoting their legal counsel along with several accomplished neurotoxicity researchers. The message: you can fill a cavity, but you cannot fix damage to the brain. The title: "The Fluoride Wars Rage On".
One problem is a misplaced idea that decades of research on fluoride prove it is safe. It is ignoring the fact that almost none of these ‘decades’ of research have focused on the very specific issue of prenatal fluoride exposure and neurodevelopment...There hasn’t been a single US study of fluoridation, prenatal exposure and natal development.

I use Dr. Sheffield's toothpaste. Sold at CVS. Haven't seen it anywhere else. I really like it and trust it. Sheffield Dentifrice Co., New London, CT.

How safe are the clay based toothpastes like Earthpaste, containing bentonite clay?

As a person being treated for hypothyroidism, I was told by my doctor not to use fluoridated toothpaste because fluoride is close to Iodine on the Periodic Table and could cause interference in absorption. I have no financial interest in this subject.

I think it needs repeating that xylitol is toxic to dogs. People should not use toothpaste containing xylitol on their dog's teeth, nor leave it open on a counter within a dogs reach.

Nice to have an evidence based review of these particular ingredients. I'm continually recommending ConsumerLab.com to my dental colleagues and patients. Thank You. RDH in Nebraska

I just love consumerlab! I’m desperate for information like this toothpaste article. Tysm Dr Cooperman.

As a practicing evidence-based dentist, I found this article to be factual and very well presented. Thank you for providing balanced recommendations based upon research and peer-reviewed studies.