I. Introduction
Sodium pyrophosphate, also known as tetrasodium diphosphate, is a widely used chemical substance in the form of a white powder (For details explanation please click to read What is sodium pyrophosphate). Sodium pyrophosphate is a colorless transparent crystal or white powder that can complex with metal ions, has emulsifying and dispersing properties, prevents oxidation of fats, and improves adhesion of proteins. One of the main ingredients in its toothpaste, it has a strong cleaning ability to neutralize stains on the teeth and does not harm the gums.
II. Grade
It is usually food grade sodium pyrophosphate used in toothpaste.
Toothpastes containing sodium pyrophosphate are available in the market in a variety of products, mainly including brands such as Crest, Colgate, Black’s, Comfortista and Henkel. These toothpastes usually contain ingredients such as calcium pyrophosphate and magnesium pyrophosphate, which help to protect teeth by preventing the dissolution of surface minerals.
III. Roles of Sodium pyrophosphate in toothpaste
- Thickener: It can increase the viscosity of toothpaste and improve its texture and taste.
- Antioxidant: protects the ingredients in toothpaste from oxidization and prolongs the shelf life.
- Preservative: Inhibit the growth of microorganisms by changing the pH value, keeping the freshness of toothpaste.
IV. Benefits of sodium pyrophosphate on teeth
- Prevents tartar: The mechanism of action of tetrasodium pyrophosphate in toothpaste is to reduce the formation of tartar and calculus by combining with calcium ions on the surface of the teeth to form a soluble complex.
- Softens tartar: Sodium pyrophosphate softens tartar so that it can be easily brushed away. Tartar is formed by minerals in the mouth under the action of plaque. If not removed in time, it will form hard lumps on the surface of the teeth, which not only affects the aesthetics, but also tends to harbor bacteria, leading to bad breath and dental caries (please read “Does sodium monofluorophosphate whiten teeth” for the generated mechanism ).
- Dissolve plaque: Sodium pyrophosphate can dissolve the plaque on the surface of teeth, effectively removing bacteria in the mouth and preventing oral diseases. Plaque is a sticky substance secreted by oral bacteria, which tends to adhere to the surface of the teeth, forming “yellowish-brown” plaque, which, if not removed in time, will lead to dental caries and periodontal diseases.
- Relieve oral inflammation: Sodium pyrophosphate contains anti-inflammatory ingredients that can relieve oral inflammation and prevent periodontitis, gingivitis and other diseases. Periodontitis and gingivitis are common oral diseases caused by oral bacteria, which may lead to loosening or even loss of teeth if left untreated.
V. Dosage
The amount of sodium pyrophosphate in toothpaste is usually 0.25%.
VI. Conclusion
It can be seen that adding sodium pyrophosphate to toothpaste can help stabilize the toothpaste system. Sodium pyrophosphate can form a colloid with other ingredients in the toothpaste, which serves to stabilize the toothpaste system and prevents the toothpaste from watering out and gassing up during its shelf life. For teeth, it removes plaque and tartar, enhances cleaning, reduces calculus accumulation, as well as protects teeth from staining. It should be noted that sodium pyrophosphate is a low-toxicity grade substance, so manufacturers who produce toothpaste should strictly comply with the regulations and follow the relevant food safety standards. As a consumer, you should try to buy toothpaste that meets food safety standards from regular channels.
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