Toothpaste with Triclosan Protects Gum Health

Wednesday 6 June 2012 @ 2:32 am

Toothpaste containing triclosan is effective in reducing gingivitis caused by plaque according to a group of researchers from the Faculty of Dentistry of the University of Toronto.

Triclosan is a chemical with antibacterial and antifungal properties. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) site says that it is present in many consumer products such as toys, clothing, kitchenware and furniture because it reduces or prevents bacterial contamination. Triclosan may also be included as an ingredient in antibacterial soaps and body washes, toothpastes and to some cosmetics, all products regulated by the FDA.

However, according to the University of Toronto researchers, triclosan is not retained in the mouth for more than a few hours and therefore fails to deliver a sustained level of antiplaque activity and clinical benefits. Tests to increase triclosan retention include the addition of other substances to the mix.

According to the FDA website, studies on animals have shown that triclosan alters the hormone regulation function. But this data is considered insufficient to predict its effects on humans. It further states that studies on bacteria have raised the possibility that triclosan contributes to making bacteria antibiotic-resistant; always a sign of bad news because it makes treatments even more difficult and expensive. The FDA says that although “Triclosan is not currently known to be hazardous to humans”, it merits further review in view of several scientific studies have come out since the last FDA review of the ingredient. The results of the review will be announced to the public in winter 2012 and will appear on the FDA’s Consumer Updates page which contains the latest news on all products regulated by the agency.

When triclosan is included in over-the-counter products such as toothpaste, body washes or anti-bacterial soaps, it will be listed on the label as an ingredient, in the Drug Facts box. In cosmetics that contain triclosan, it will be mentioned in the product label under the ingredients.

Regular brushing and flossing can easily help prevent gum disease. Visit the FreeDentistFinder.com article archive for more information about the causes and prevention of gum disease. If you have dental plaque or bleeding gums, these may be early signs of gingivitis or gum disease. Timely treatment when detected early can lead to a cure. You should visit a dentist without further delay.

The FreeDentistFinder.com dentist finder offers you the easiest route to find a dentist near you, by allowing you to search for a dentist by area zip code and dental specialty.

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