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Is Glycerin in Toothpaste Safe?

Is Glycerin in Toothpaste Safe?

The content of this article is approved by “drhealthandbeauty” experts.
Note: This article is only to guide and increase your knowledge. Before taking any action, you can consult “drhealthandbeauty” doctors or your doctor for treatment.

Glycerin is a versatile compound. It is a sweet, colorless, odorless, non-toxic, transparent, and viscous alcohol that can be dissolved in water in any ratio due to its hydrogen bond. Glycerin has many benefits and applications in the pharmaceutical industry, as well as in food and other industries, including toothpaste.

This clear, odourless liquid has a slightly sweet taste and is known for its ability to retain moisture.

Think you go to the store and buy toothpaste for your oral health. You will find all kinds of toothpaste on the shelves. Now you have to choose. It is challenging to select because different brands introduce different toothpaste with different and eye-catching claims.

It is better to see their combinations to make the right decision. Now, maybe you bought toothpaste that contains glycerin. But after you use it for a while, you will hear rumours and legends about it that will make you doubt the choice of toothpaste containing glycerin. So, the wisest way is to know the purpose of each combination in toothpaste.

 But why is glycerin used in toothpaste? In short, glycerin maintains the toothpaste’s smooth texture, prevents it from drying out, and causes it to spread evenly when used on the teeth.

In this scientific article by Dr. Sanaz from Drhealthandbeauty, we have examined this famous toothpaste ingredient in depth and finally answered your concerns.

So stay with me.

Table of Contents
Is Glycerin in Toothpaste Safe 02

Is glycerin in toothpaste harmful or beneficial?

Numerous scientific and medical studies have examined the safety of glycerin in toothpaste, and researchers agree that glycerin is safe for use in toothpaste and oral care products. 

One theory is that glycerin in toothpaste or other oral care products can form a coating on the teeth that prevents the natural process of remineralization, which is necessary to maintain healthy teeth and prevent decay.

The point that should be mentioned here is that the Best Toothpaste To Reverse Cavities must have several features we discussed in the relevant article.

Glycerin’s interaction with other ingredients in the toothpaste, such as fluoride, increases the product’s overall effectiveness. Unlike abrasives that may damage tooth enamel, glycerin is gentle and reduces the risk of irritation in the mouth.

A concern with glycerin and remineralization is that they may stop the absorption of minerals by tooth enamel, a natural process that helps strengthen and repair teeth.

However, since glycerin is water-soluble, it does not have a permanent barrier preventing the enamel’s absorption of minerals. Instead, any glycerin coating on the teeth can be easily washed away by saliva or water, allowing minerals to Penetrate the enamel and support the remineralization process.

Another common misconception is that glycerin can be harmful if swallowed in small amounts while brushing. The glycerin in toothpaste is non-toxic and safe for accidental ingestion.

In addition, glycerin acts as a humectant. It moisturizes oral tissues, which can significantly benefit people with dry mouth. This moisturizing effect helps soothe the mouth while helping to prevent bacterial growth and contribute to overall oral health.

Maintaining a healthy oral microbiome prevents tooth decay and gum problems. So, it is worth knowing how to keep a Healthy Oral Microbiome?.

What do dentists think about glycerin in toothpaste?

Professionals and dentists strongly support the use of glycerin in toothpaste and believe in its safety and functional benefits.

They emphasize that the inclusion of glycerin does not interfere with the excellent benefits of other active ingredients in toothpaste, such as fluoride, which is essential for preventing cavities and decay. For people with specific oral health conditions, such as sensitivity or dry mouth, dentists often recommend toothpaste formulations that contain glycerin for its soothing properties.

Your teeth may still rot despite regular brushing and using toothpaste containing glycerin. In the article “What Is The Cause Of Tooth Decay Despite Brushing?” Its reasons and solutions have been examined in detail.

Why is glycerin a common ingredient in toothpaste?

The primary purpose of glycerin in toothpaste is to act as an adhesive, moisturizer, and texture enhancer. Here is a breakdown of these functions:

  1. Binder or adhesion: Glycerin helps all the toothpaste ingredients stick together, ensuring a stable texture and preventing its components from separating. It helps the overall stability of the toothpaste formula.
  1. Humectant: Glycerin acts as a humectant, meaning it helps retain moisture in the toothpaste. This feature prevents the toothpaste from drying out and makes the process of using it harder. It also maintains its consistency and uniformity when the tube is opened.
  1. Texture enhancer: Glycerin enhances the soft and creamy texture of the toothpaste, making it easier to spread it on the toothbrush and apply it to the teeth. It also helps to create a pleasant sensation while brushing.

Glycerin is also a key essential ingredient in artificial saliva, a lifesaver for people who suffer from dry mouth due to ageing or cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation. Without saliva, these people risk tooth decay and gum disease. Composed primarily of glycerin, artificial saliva helps maintain a neutral pH in the mouth, temporarily replacing natural saliva and protecting teeth from cavities and other oral health problems.

In addition to being used in artificial saliva, glycerin is usually found in toothpaste as an adhesive and moisturizer. It helps the toothpaste’s soft texture and prevents it from drying out. While there are alternative adhesives, such as silica, glycerin is not harmful, and its existence in toothpaste should not be a cause for concern.

Oral Care

Frequently asked questions

Can glycerin have negative effects on teeth?

Glycerin is safe for daily use in toothpaste. It has been thoroughly and comprehensively tested and confirmed by health researchers worldwide. And so far, there is no evidence that glycerin may negatively affect teeth. A feather that washes off easily and does not cover the teeth so firmly that it prevents remineralization.

 

Should I avoid glycerin if I have sensitive teeth?

Glycerin, because it has moisture-preserving properties, keeps the texture of the toothpaste soft and smooth and prevents it from drying out. It is also soothing and generally useful for sensitive teeth. However, if you are concerned, it is best to consult your dentist for advice.

Related: “What To Do With Tooth Sensitivity

 

What ingredients should I look for in toothpaste?

In the time of choosing a toothpaste, you should finf one that nourishes and keeps your oral microbiome healthy rather than disinfecting it. Look for toothpaste ingredients like prebiotics and hydroxyapatite that keep the overall health of your teeth and gums.

Avoid products that contain pesticides, harsh chemicals and vital oils that can disrupt your oral microbiome and cause other oral health problems.

Is Glycerin in Toothpaste Safe 03

conclusion

The glycerin in toothpaste is not harmful to your teeth and does not prevent remineralization. It’s important to stay up-to-date on the latest dental studies and be cautious about the data you find online.

It is essential to note that glycerin is a valuable ingredient in artificial saliva and has useful uses in toothpaste.

In addition to being used in artificial saliva, glycerin is usually found in toothpaste as an adhesive and moisturizer. It helps the soft texture of the toothpaste and prevents it from drying out. While there are alternative adhesives such as silica in toothpaste, glycerin is not considered harmful and it should not be a cause for concern.

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Author and specialist

Dr. Majid Zahrabi,

Neurosurgeon

  • Board Certified Neurosurgeon
  • DHA certificate holder
  • Plantation certificate holder, France
  • Certified holder of Discogol, France
  • A pioneer in the non-surgical treatment of disc herniation in the Middle East and CIS countries.
  • Under the training and coaching of Professor Jacques Theron (founder of Discogel Therapy) since 2008
  • More than 400 successful cervical and 1300 lumbar discogel injections
  • Trained and certified several neurosurgeons and spine surgeons in the Middle East and CIS countries for the treatment of Discogel
  • Strong belief in patient-centered care planning and participation
  • Neurosurgeon and spine surgeon at Imam Khomeini and Amir Mazandarani Hospital, Sari, Iran, with more than 430 surgeries annually, 2000-2011
  • Neurosurgeon and spine surgeon at Farmaniyeh, Nikan and Yas Sepid Hospital, Tehran, Iran, with more than 400 surgeries annually, 2011-2012
  • Neurosurgeon at Iranian Hospital, Dubai, 2022-2023
  • Since 2015, he has been working as a reference doctor for the treatment of intervertebral disc herniation with Discogel and has trained many doctors of spine-related specialties in various countries of the Middle East and CIS in person/practically and online.

 

Education:

  • Individual training sessions under the direct supervision of Professor Jacques Theron in Discogel treatment, 2008-2020
  • Training sessions under the supervision of Professor Thierry Boye on spinal implants, 2007
  • Participation and presentation in several national and international medical and neuro-spinal conferences
  • Board certificate by Iran Neurosurgery Board, 2001
  • Neurosurgery assistant training course, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran, 1996-2001 (In 2001, he graduated from Isfahan University of Medical Sciences with the first rank in the country.
  • His thesis the titled:The Application of human amniotic membrane in repair of dura matter in dogs.” ( It was happening for the first time in the world. )
  • General medical education, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran, 1984-1993

 

Published books:

  • CT scan of the brain for doctors
  • Etiology and treatment of painful spine disorders
  • Atlas of diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of spine disorders
  • The most common mistakes in the treatment of spinal disorders
  • Reading brain CT scan in simple language (3rd place in the book of the year)
  • Treatment of head and spine injuries

 

Publications and articles:

  • Bacteriostatic and bactericidal effects of DISCOGEL® (https://www.researchgate.net/)
  • Muscle recovery, reduction of pain, and improvement of movement strategies in patients with lumbar discopathy after injection of Discogel.
  • The article on the initial results of the treatment of intervertebral disc herniation with discogel injection, which won the second-best poster rank at the Pan Arab International Congress of Interventional Radiology (March 14-16, 2015) and was accepted for presentation at the Chicago Pain Congress.
  • The use of human amniotic membrane in dura mater repair in dogs, a study for the first time in the world.

 

Lectures:

  • Annual Congress of Physiotherapists of Iran, 2019
  • Chicago International Pain Congress, 2019
  • Iran International Pain Management Congress, 2018
  • Annual Congress of Physiotherapists of Iran, 2018
  • Presentation of Discogel as an innovative solution for the treatment of spinal disc herniation in Armenia for orthopedic specialists and neurosurgeons, 2017
  • First Live Workshop and Seminar on Minimally Invasive Disc Therapy (DISCON), 2017
  • Presentation of Discogel as an innovative solution for the treatment of spinal disc herniation in Azerbaijan for orthopedic specialists and neurosurgeons, 2016
  • Seminar of Iranian official managers, 2016
  • Presentation of Discogel as an innovative solution for the treatment of spinal disc herniation in Tajikistan for orthopedic specialists and neurosurgeons, 2016
  • International Neurological Intervention Congress in Iran, 2014
  • Educational seminar for nurses on treatment approaches for head and spine trauma, 2014
  • Educational seminar for general practitioners on treatment approaches for head and spine trauma, 2014
  • Speech at the Retraining Seminar for General Practitioners and Specialists in Dubai (Discon) in 2017
  • Speech in the internal retraining courses of Irani Hospital, Dubai
  • Holding lecture sessions and practical workshops on the treatment of intervertebral disc herniation with discogel injection in Azerbaijan, Tajikistan, Ukraine, Oman, and Armenia during the years 2015 to 2021.
  • Giving a lecture and holding a practical workshop for neurosurgeons in Vietnam at Ho Chi Minh City University in 2023

Dr. Majid Zohrabi started treating his patients in Dubai in 2022 and continues his activities in private medical centers in the UAE.