Zahnpaste

Elmex
65 Fair
View on Amazon

Summary

This toothpaste contains beneficial ingredients like hydrated silica, calcium carbonate, and sodium bicarbonate, which contribute to effective oral hygiene by removing plaque and stains. However, it also includes potentially irritating and synthetic compounds such as sodium lauryl sulfate, hydrochloric acid, and sodium saccharin, which can cause irritation or have health concerns in high doses. The presence of these processed and synthetic ingredients, along with the product's processing level, influences its overall rating.

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 4
Harmful ingredients 5
Owned by Colgate-Palmolive
Category Toothcare

Key ingredients 14

Aqua
Neutral

Aqua, or water, is used as a solvent in toothpaste formulations. It helps dissolve other ingredients and provides the necessary consistency for application. No significant health impacts are associated with its use in this context.

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Hydrated Silica
Good

Hydrated silica is used as an abrasive agent in toothpaste to help remove plaque and stains from teeth. It is processed to have a specific particle size that is effective yet gentle on enamel. This ingredient is considered beneficial for oral hygiene.

Benefits

Helps in cleaning teeth by removing plaque and surface stains, contributing to oral health.

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Sorbitol
Neutral

Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol used as a sweetener and humectant in toothpaste. It helps maintain moisture and provides a pleasant taste without promoting tooth decay. It is generally recognized as safe for oral care products.

Risks

Excessive consumption can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, but this is not a concern in toothpaste use.

Benefits

Provides sweetness and helps retain moisture, enhancing the texture and taste of the toothpaste.

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Calcium Carbonate
Good

Calcium carbonate acts as a mild abrasive in toothpaste, aiding in the removal of plaque and surface stains. It is a naturally occurring mineral that is processed for use in oral care products. This ingredient supports oral hygiene by contributing to the cleaning process.

Benefits

Contributes to the mechanical cleaning of teeth, supporting overall oral health.

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Sodium Bicarbonate
Good

Sodium bicarbonate, or baking soda, is used for its mild abrasive properties and ability to neutralize acids in the mouth. It is a natural compound that is minimally processed for use in toothpaste. This ingredient helps maintain a balanced oral pH and freshens breath.

Benefits

Neutralizes acids and freshens breath, contributing to oral health maintenance.

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Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
Bad

Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) is a surfactant used to create foam in toothpaste, aiding in the distribution of the product. It is a synthetic compound that can cause irritation in some individuals. Its use is controversial due to potential mucosal irritation.

Risks

May cause irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, particularly in the oral mucosa.

Benefits

Enhances foaming action, which can improve the distribution and effectiveness of toothpaste.

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Sodium Monofluorophosphate
Good

Sodium monofluorophosphate is a fluoride compound used to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities. It is carefully processed to ensure safety and efficacy in oral care products. This ingredient is widely recognized for its role in dental health.

Risks

Excessive ingestion can lead to dental fluorosis, but this is not a concern with proper use.

Benefits

Strengthens enamel and helps prevent cavities, supporting long-term dental health.

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Aroma
Neutral

Aroma refers to flavoring agents used to improve the taste and smell of toothpaste. These are typically synthetic or natural compounds added in small amounts. They enhance user experience without significant health impacts.

Benefits

Improves taste and user experience, encouraging regular use of toothpaste.

Sodium Silicate
Neutral

Sodium silicate is used as a stabilizer and thickening agent in toothpaste formulations. It is a synthetic compound that helps maintain the product's consistency. Its use is generally considered safe in oral care products.

Benefits

Helps maintain product stability and consistency, ensuring effective application.

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Hydrochloric Acid
Bad

Hydrochloric acid is used in very small amounts to adjust the pH of toothpaste formulations. It is a highly corrosive substance that must be handled carefully during manufacturing. Its presence in toothpaste is controlled to prevent any adverse effects.

Risks

Potential for irritation if not properly neutralized, but this is controlled in manufacturing.

Sodium Saccharin
Bad

Sodium saccharin is an artificial sweetener used to enhance the taste of toothpaste. It is a synthetic compound that has been associated with health concerns in high doses. Its use in toothpaste is limited to small amounts to minimize potential risks.

Risks

May pose health concerns in high doses, though the risk is minimal in toothpaste use.

Benefits

Provides sweetness without contributing to tooth decay, enhancing product palatability.

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Benzyl Alcohol
Bad

Benzyl alcohol is used as a preservative and solvent in toothpaste formulations. It is a synthetic compound that can cause irritation in some individuals. Its use is regulated to ensure safety in oral care products.

Risks

Potential for irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Helps preserve the product and maintain its stability over time.

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Glycerin
Neutral

Glycerin is used as a humectant in toothpaste to retain moisture and prevent the product from drying out. It is a naturally derived compound that is processed for purity and safety. This ingredient is widely used in oral care products for its functional properties.

Benefits

Helps maintain moisture and texture, enhancing the usability of toothpaste.

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Sodium Hydroxide
Bad

Sodium hydroxide is used to adjust the pH of toothpaste formulations. It is a caustic substance that must be carefully controlled during manufacturing. Its presence is necessary for pH balance but requires careful handling to avoid adverse effects.

Risks

Potential for irritation if not properly neutralized, but this is controlled in manufacturing.

See more about Sodium Hydroxide →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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