Tom’s of Maine Whiten Plus Coconut Oil Fluoride Free Toothpaste Gentle Mint 4.0 oz
Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This toothpaste contains beneficial ingredients like xylitol, coconut oil, and sodium bicarbonate, which support oral health by reducing cavity-causing bacteria and providing gentle cleaning. However, it is classified as ultra-processed, which limits its score despite the absence of harmful ingredients like fluoride or SLS. The presence of multiple additives also contributes to its processing level, impacting the overall rating.
Key ingredients 15
xylitolVery Good
Xylitol is a natural sweetener that reduces cavity-causing bacteria in the mouth. It is beneficial for oral health as it helps prevent tooth decay. It is a preferred sweetener in oral care products due to its dental benefits.
Risks
Xylitol is generally safe, but excessive consumption can cause digestive issues.
Benefits
Xylitol helps reduce the risk of cavities by inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria.
glycerinGood
Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with glycerin in toothpaste.
Benefits
Glycerin helps maintain the toothpaste's moisture and texture.
Cocos nucifera (Coconut) oilGood
Coconut oil is known for its natural antibacterial properties, which can help reduce harmful bacteria in the mouth. It is a popular ingredient in natural oral care products. It also helps in soothing oral tissues.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with coconut oil in toothpaste.
Benefits
Coconut oil helps reduce bacteria and soothe oral tissues, contributing to oral health.
waterNeutral
Water is a common solvent used in many products. It helps dissolve other ingredients and provides a base for the formulation. It does not have any direct oral health benefits or risks.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with water in toothpaste.
Benefits
Water helps in maintaining the consistency and usability of the toothpaste.
sorbitolNeutral
Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol used as a sweetener and humectant. It helps retain moisture in the toothpaste and provides a sweet taste without promoting tooth decay. It is generally considered safe for oral care products.
Risks
Excessive consumption of sorbitol can cause digestive issues, but this is not a concern in toothpaste.
Benefits
Sorbitol helps maintain moisture and provides a pleasant taste without contributing to cavities.
hydrated silicaNeutral
Hydrated silica is used as an abrasive to help remove plaque and stains from teeth. It is effective in cleaning teeth but can be abrasive if used excessively. It is generally safe in controlled amounts.
Risks
Overuse of abrasive agents like hydrated silica can lead to enamel wear.
Benefits
Hydrated silica helps in effectively cleaning teeth and removing surface stains.
lauryl glucosideNeutral
Lauryl glucoside is a mild surfactant used to help mix ingredients and create foam. It is derived from natural sources and is considered gentle on the skin and mucous membranes. It is a safer alternative to harsher surfactants like SLS.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with lauryl glucoside in oral care products.
Benefits
Lauryl glucoside helps in creating a foamy texture, enhancing the cleaning experience.
disodium cocoyl glutamateNeutral
Disodium cocoyl glutamate is a mild surfactant derived from coconut oil and glutamic acid. It helps in cleansing and foaming without being harsh on the oral tissues. It is considered safe and gentle for use in oral care products.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with disodium cocoyl glutamate.
Benefits
It provides gentle cleansing and foaming properties, enhancing the toothpaste's usability.
xanthan gumNeutral
Xanthan gum is a thickening agent that helps stabilize the toothpaste's texture. It is widely used in food and personal care products and is considered safe. It does not have direct oral health benefits.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with xanthan gum in toothpaste.
Benefits
Xanthan gum helps maintain the toothpaste's consistency and stability.
tetrasodium pyrophosphateNeutral
Tetrasodium pyrophosphate is used to prevent tartar buildup by binding calcium. It is effective in maintaining oral hygiene but does not have direct health benefits. It is generally considered safe in oral care products.
Risks
Excessive use can lead to irritation, but this is uncommon in toothpaste.
Benefits
It helps in reducing tartar formation, contributing to oral hygiene.
rebaudioside ANeutral
Rebaudioside A is a steviol glycoside used as a natural sweetener. It provides sweetness without contributing to tooth decay. It is considered safe and is a popular alternative to artificial sweeteners.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with rebaudioside A in toothpaste.
Benefits
It provides sweetness without the risk of cavities, enhancing the taste of the toothpaste.
potassium hydroxideNeutral
Potassium hydroxide is used to adjust the pH of the toothpaste. It is effective in maintaining the stability of the formulation. It is safe in the small amounts used in oral care products.
Risks
In high concentrations, it can be corrosive, but this is not a concern in toothpaste.
Benefits
It helps maintain the product's pH balance, ensuring stability and effectiveness.
sodium bicarbonateNeutral
Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with sodium bicarbonate in toothpaste.
Benefits
Sodium bicarbonate helps clean teeth gently and neutralize acids, promoting oral health.
natural flavorBad
Umbrella term that can hide dozens of undisclosed synthetic constituents.
Risks
Potential allergens could be present, but this is rare with natural flavors.
Benefits
Natural flavors improve the taste and user experience of the toothpaste.
benzyl alcoholBad
Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.
Risks
In rare cases, benzyl alcohol can cause irritation or allergic reactions.
Benefits
Benzyl alcohol helps preserve the product and prevent microbial growth.
Processing
Processed Foods
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