Tetrasodium pyrophosphate, also known as sodium pyrophosphate, is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula Na4P2O7, a white crystalline powder, easily absorbs moisture and deliquesces in air, soluble in water, insoluble in ethanol and other organic solvents.
The amount of sodium pyrophosphate in toothpaste is generally 0.25%. Tetrasodium pyrophosphate is mainly used as acid-base buffer in toothpaste, which can regulate the pH value of toothpaste and keep it in a suitable range, so as to protect teeth and gums. In addition, it also has the function of removing plaque, preventing the formation of tartar and calculus, antibacterial, anti-caries, enhancing tooth hardness, promoting tooth remineralization, and whitening teeth. It is therefore used in a variety of toothpastes, including whitening toothpastes, acid reflux toothpastes, and more.
But as a chemical, it can have a number of side effects if exposed in excess. The main ones include the following:
- Harm the oral mucosa: Tetrasodium pyrophosphate has the function of decontamination, sterilization and anti-inflammation, but long-term or excessive use may harm the oral mucosa, leading to mouth ulcers and other problems.
- Affect calcium absorption: Sodium pyrophosphate combined with calcium will form calcium salts that are difficult to be absorbed by the body, thus affecting the absorption of calcium. Long-term intake of excessive sodium pyrophosphate may lead to insufficient calcium, which will have an impact on bone and dental health.
- Impact on kidney health: High concentrations of sodium pyrophosphate may burden the kidneys and aggravate the risk of kidney stone formation, especially for people with kidney problems, care should be taken not to overdose.
- Allergic reactions: Sodium pyrophosphate may react with proteins in food to form allergenic substances, and should be used with caution by allergy-prone people. In addition, sodium pyrophosphate in toothpaste may increase the risk of allergic reactions.
Ways to minimize side effects include:
- Control the dosage: when using toothpaste, you should pay attention to control the dosage, you should not use too much at a time, it is recommended to control the size of a pea or so. Avoid excessive brushing or too much strength, which may cause damage to the oral mucosa.
- Choose the right toothpaste for you: Different people have different oral conditions, and choosing the right toothpaste for you can minimize its harmful effects on the human body. If the gums bleed easily or are sensitive, it is recommended to choose a low irritation type of toothpaste.
Conclusion
Tetrasodium pyrophosphate has a variety of roles in toothpaste and is often used in whitening toothpastes and acid reflux toothpastes. Generally speaking, its dosage in toothpaste is 0.25%. However, long-term or excessive use may produce some side effects, including damage to the oral mucosa, affecting calcium absorption, affecting kidney health, and allergic reactions. Therefore, you should control the dosage when using toothpaste, and avoid excessive brushing or too much strength. Try to choose a toothpaste for your situation. If your gums bleed easily or are sensitive, try to choose a low irritation type of toothpaste.
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