PerioTrap Pharmaceuticals GmbH
Weinbergweg 22, 06120 Halle (Saale)
Dr. James Belcher, December 15, 2025
Gentle or harsh? Toothpaste abrasives explained simply
Have you ever wondered why some toothpastes are "extra gentle" and others "deep cleaning"? The difference lies in the abrasive – the tiny particles that remove plaque. But how abrasive should toothpaste really be? Here you'll learn what the RDA value means, what types of particles are used, and how to find the right toothpaste for you.
What is that?
Every toothpaste contains abrasives – tiny particles made of minerals such as silicates or chalk. They act like a gentle exfoliation for your teeth and help to remove plaque as well as tea or coffee stains. Abrasiveness, i.e., the wear during cleaning, is indicated by the RDA value (Relative Dentin Abrasion): The higher the value, the more abrasive the toothpaste is.
Why is it important?
A little abrasion is good – but too much can be harmful. Tooth enamel (the hard protective layer of your teeth) and dentin (the underlying sensitive tissue) react differently to abrasion. People with exposed tooth necks or sensitive teeth should choose toothpastes with a low RDA value. to avoid risking further damage.
Science explained briefly
Studies show that toothpastes with a low RDA value (< 70) clean gently without damaging tooth enamel. Higher values (100–150) are typical for whitening toothpastes or toothpastes for smokers – They polish more effectively, but can lead to micro-cracks in the long term.
Modern toothpastes often use hydrated silica: fine particles that clean gently but effectively. Products like the PerioTrap microbiome toothpaste deliberately rely on such gentle abrasives – Tested by the Fraunhofer Institute for safety and effectiveness.
What can you do?
- Look at the RDA value: For everyday use, a toothpaste with an RDA of about 50–80 is sufficient.
- Choose a gentle toothpaste for sensitive teeth – especially if you have receding gums.
- Optimize your cleaning technique: Use light pressure and a soft brush.
In summary
- The RDA value tells you how abrasive a toothpaste is.
- Gentle silica particles clean effectively without damaging teeth and tooth necks.
- Choosing the right toothpaste supports the long-term health of your teeth.
Did you know?
Many whitening toothpastes work not only through abrasives – some also contain gentle chemical polishers, to remove the discoloration without over-irritating the tooth.
Sources
- Fraunhofer Institute Halle – Studies on RDA values
- American Dental Association (ADA) – Guidelines on the Abrasiveness of Toothpastes
- Sunstar GUM – Abrasivity Report