When it comes to maintaining good oral health, choosing the right toothpaste is an important part of your daily routine. But have you ever looked at the label on your toothpaste and wondered what the RDA value means? RDA stands for “relative dentin abrasivity,” and it measures how abrasive a toothpaste is. Here’s what you need to know about the RDA of common toothpastes and their effects:
What is RDA? The RDA value measures the abrasiveness of toothpaste on a scale of 0 to 250. The higher the RDA value, the more abrasive the toothpaste is. Abrasiveness can be beneficial for removing surface stains and plaque, but too much abrasion can damage the enamel on your teeth.
What are the RDA values of common toothpastes?
- A toothpaste with an RDA value of 0-70 is considered low abrasion and is safe for daily use.
- A toothpaste with an RDA value of 70-100 is considered medium abrasion and should be used with caution, especially for those with sensitive teeth or exposed roots.
- A toothpaste with an RDA value of 100-150 is considered highly abrasive and should be used sparingly and under the guidance of a dentist.
- A toothpaste with an RDA value of 150-250 is considered extremely abrasive and should not be used on a regular basis.
What are the effects of high RDA toothpaste? Using a toothpaste with a high RDA value can cause damage to your enamel, which can lead to tooth sensitivity and even tooth decay. It can also wear away the cementum on the root surfaces of your teeth, which can expose the dentin and lead to further sensitivity.
What are the benefits of low RDA toothpaste? Using a toothpaste with a low RDA value can help to gently remove surface stains and plaque without damaging your enamel. It can also help to reduce tooth sensitivity and promote a healthy mouth.
How to choose the right toothpaste for you? When choosing a toothpaste, it’s important to consider your individual needs and consult with your dentist. If you have sensitive teeth, look for a toothpaste with a low RDA value or one that is specifically designed for sensitive teeth. If you are prone to cavities, look for a toothpaste that contains fluoride to help strengthen your enamel.
In conclusion, understanding the RDA value of your toothpaste is important for maintaining good oral health. Choosing a toothpaste with a low abrasion value can help to protect your enamel and promote a healthy mouth. Consult with your dentist to find the right toothpaste for your individual needs.
- Sensodyne Pronamel Gentle Whitening Toothpaste: RDA 35
- Crest Pro-Health Clean Mint Toothpaste: RDA 70
- Colgate Total Advanced Fresh + Whitening Toothpaste: RDA 70
- Arm & Hammer Advance White Extreme Whitening Toothpaste: RDA 128
- Colgate Optic White Toothpaste: RDA 140
- Crest 3D White Glamorous White Toothpaste: RDA 160
- Tom’s of Maine Antiplaque and Whitening Fluoride-Free Toothpaste: RDA 165
- Aquafresh Whitening Toothpaste: RDA 172
- Colgate Max White One Optic Toothpaste: RDA 180
- Carifree CTx3 Gel 1100: RDA 40, pH 9
As you can see, toothpastes can range from low to high abrasiveness. It’s important to choose a toothpaste that fits your individual needs and consult with your dentist to determine the best toothpaste for your oral health.