Is it fine to use toothpaste with tapioca starch as its main ingredient?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have used fluoride-free toothpaste with tapioca starch and mint oil as the main ingredients.

I have had no cavities for three years. However, I do get heavy plaque buildup.

The tapioca starch is non-abrasive to the enamel, so it is good. However, bacteria can thrive on tapioca starch if not properly brushed away.

This is why I am concerned with the toothpaste I am using, and I am curious to know if I can continue to use tapioca-based toothpaste.

Thanks.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

As far as tapioca is concerned, it is used in toothpaste for various reasons, like thickeners, and it also cleanses the mouth from bacteria. It is a resistant starch with overall health effects on the body, like low nutritional value, which is good for diabetic patients. It also cleanses the body from harmful bacteria.

As far as your plaque issue is concerned, it can be natural or due to other factors.

I suggest you go for oral prophylaxis every six months.

Use Hexidine mouthwash 0.1 % twice daily for 15 days.