Tom's of Maine Antiplaque & Whitening Fluoride-Free Toothpaste, Peppermint (4 Pack)
Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This toothpaste features beneficial ingredients like xylitol and zinc citrate, which support oral health by reducing cavity-causing bacteria and controlling plaque. It avoids harmful substances such as fluoride and SLS, making it a safer choice for daily use. The presence of natural flavors and a relatively clean ingredient list contribute to its high rating, although minor additives slightly impact its overall score.
Key ingredients 12
XylitolVery Good
Xylitol is a natural sweetener that has been shown to reduce cavity-causing bacteria in the mouth. It is beneficial for oral health as it helps to prevent tooth decay. It also provides a pleasant taste without the negative effects of sugar.
Risks
Excessive consumption can cause digestive upset in some individuals.
Benefits
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
May leave a film on teeth that could potentially inhibit remineralization.
Benefits
Keeps toothpaste moist and palatable, enhancing user experience.
Zinc citrateGood
Zinc citrate is used in toothpaste for its antimicrobial properties, helping to reduce plaque and prevent gingivitis. It is effective in controlling oral bacteria and maintaining gum health. It also helps in reducing bad breath.
Risks
Excessive zinc intake can lead to health issues, but this is unlikely from toothpaste use.
Benefits
Helps in reducing plaque formation and maintaining healthy gums.
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 oral care. However, it does not provide any additional antimicrobial benefits.
Risks
Excessive use can lead to enamel wear if the abrasive is too harsh.
Benefits
Helps in mechanically cleaning 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 is inert and poses no health risks.
Benefits
Acts as a solvent and helps in maintaining the consistency of the toothpaste.
Hydrated silicaNeutral
Hydrated silica is used as a mild abrasive in toothpaste to help clean teeth and remove stains. It is generally considered safe for use in oral care products. However, it does not provide any antimicrobial benefits.
Risks
Overuse can potentially lead to enamel abrasion if the formulation is too abrasive.
Benefits
Helps in cleaning teeth by removing surface stains and plaque.
Laurel glucosideNeutral
Laurel glucoside is a mild surfactant used to help create foam and improve the spreadability of toothpaste. It is derived from natural sources and is considered safe for use. It does not have direct oral health benefits.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Improves the texture and foaming action of the toothpaste, enhancing cleaning efficiency.
Disodium cocoyl glutamateNeutral
Disodium cocoyl glutamate is a mild surfactant used in toothpaste to help with foaming and cleaning. It is derived from coconut oil and glutamic acid, making it a gentle option for oral care. It does not provide direct health benefits.
Risks
Generally considered safe with minimal risk of irritation.
Benefits
Contributes to the foaming action, aiding in the mechanical cleaning of teeth.
Rebaudioside ANeutral
Rebaudioside A is a natural sweetener derived from stevia, used to enhance the taste of toothpaste. It is non-cariogenic, meaning it does not contribute to tooth decay. However, it does not provide direct oral health benefits.
Risks
Generally safe with no significant risks at typical usage levels.
Benefits
Provides sweetness without contributing to tooth decay.
Sodium hydroxideNeutral
Sodium hydroxide is used in toothpaste to adjust pH levels, ensuring the product is not too acidic or basic. It is used in very small amounts and is considered safe for oral care. It does not provide direct health benefits.
Risks
In high concentrations, it can be corrosive, but it is used in safe amounts in toothpaste.
Benefits
Helps maintain the pH balance of the toothpaste, ensuring product stability.
Natural flavorBad
Umbrella term that can hide dozens of undisclosed synthetic constituents.
Risks
Potential allergen for some individuals sensitive to specific natural extracts.
Benefits
Enhances the flavor of the toothpaste, making it more pleasant to use.
CarrageenanBad
Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.
Risks
Some concerns exist about gastrointestinal effects, but these are typically associated with high intake levels.
Benefits
Improves the texture and stability of the toothpaste formulation.
Get the full breakdown in the Scout appTake Scout shopping
Scan any product to see lab results, healthy alternatives, and your personalized analysis.
Download on theApp Store GET IT ONGoogle PlayAmazon pricing & content
Amazon price as of . Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED “AS IS” AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.