Tom s of Maine Fluoride-Free Antiplaque & Whitening Natural Toothpaste Spearmint 5.5 oz.
Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This toothpaste contains beneficial ingredients like xylitol, myrrh resin extract, propolis extract, and spearmint oil, which support oral health through antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. However, the presence of sodium lauryl sulfate, a known mucosal irritant, is a concern and affects the overall safety profile of the product. The formula is relatively clean but the inclusion of SLS prevents it from achieving a higher rating.
Key ingredients 13
XylitolVery Good
Xylitol is a natural sweetener that has been shown to reduce cavity-causing bacteria in the mouth. It is considered very beneficial for oral health. It also helps in maintaining a pleasant taste without the use of artificial sweeteners.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with xylitol, though it can cause digestive upset if ingested in large quantities.
Benefits
It reduces the growth of cavity-causing bacteria and helps in maintaining oral health.
GlycerinGood
Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with glycerin in toothpaste.
Benefits
It helps in maintaining the consistency and moisture of the toothpaste.
Commiphora myrrha (myrrh) resin extractGood
Myrrh resin extract is known for its antimicrobial properties and has been used traditionally for oral health. It can help in reducing inflammation and promoting gum health. It is considered beneficial for maintaining oral hygiene.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though some individuals may experience allergic reactions.
Benefits
It has antimicrobial properties and can help in promoting gum health.
Propolis extractGood
Propolis extract is known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It can help in reducing plaque formation and promoting oral health. It is considered beneficial for maintaining healthy gums and teeth.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though some individuals may experience allergic reactions.
Benefits
It has antimicrobial properties and can help in reducing plaque and promoting oral health.
Spearmint oilGood
Spearmint oil is a natural mint oil that provides a fresh flavor and has antimicrobial properties. It helps in freshening breath and can contribute to oral hygiene. It is considered beneficial for its natural antimicrobial effects.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though some individuals may experience allergic reactions.
Benefits
It freshens breath and has antimicrobial properties that contribute to oral hygiene.
Calcium carbonateNeutral
Calcium carbonate is a common abrasive used in toothpaste to help remove plaque and surface stains. It is generally considered safe and effective for this purpose. However, it does not provide any additional antimicrobial benefits.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with calcium carbonate, though excessive use could potentially lead to enamel wear.
Benefits
It helps in mechanically cleaning the teeth by removing plaque and surface stains.
WaterNeutral
Water is used as a solvent in toothpaste formulations. It helps to dissolve other ingredients and maintain the desired consistency. It does not have any direct impact on oral health.
Risks
There are no risks associated with water in toothpaste.
Benefits
It acts as a solvent and helps in mixing other ingredients effectively.
Hydrated silicaNeutral
Hydrated silica is used as an abrasive to help remove plaque and stains from teeth. It is generally considered safe for use in toothpaste. However, it does not provide any antimicrobial benefits.
Risks
Excessive abrasiveness could potentially lead to enamel wear over time.
Benefits
It aids in cleaning teeth by removing plaque and surface stains.
Xanthan gumNeutral
Xanthan gum is used as a thickening agent in toothpaste to maintain its consistency. It is generally considered safe and non-toxic. It does not have any direct impact on oral health.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with xanthan gum in toothpaste.
Benefits
It helps in maintaining the desired consistency of the toothpaste.
Other natural flavorNeutral
Other natural flavors are used to enhance the taste of toothpaste. They are generally considered safe but do not contribute to oral health benefits. The specific components of these flavors are not always disclosed.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though some individuals may have sensitivities to certain natural flavors.
Benefits
It improves the taste of the toothpaste, making it more pleasant to use.
Natural flavorBad
Umbrella term that can hide dozens of undisclosed synthetic constituents.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though some individuals may have sensitivities to certain natural flavors.
Benefits
It improves the taste of the toothpaste, making it more pleasant to use.
Benzyl alcoholBad
Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.
Risks
In rare cases, it may cause irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It helps in preserving the toothpaste by preventing microbial growth.
Sodium lauryl sulfateVery Bad
Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) is a surfactant used to create foam in toothpaste. It is known to be a harsh mucosal irritant and has been linked to mouth ulcers. Its use in oral care products is controversial due to these potential side effects.
Risks
It can cause irritation to the oral mucosa and is associated with the development of mouth ulcers.
Benefits
It helps in creating foam, which can aid in the distribution of toothpaste during brushing.
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