Quick Take
A Facebook post claims that a probiotic toothpaste can make your teeth super white instantly. Our fact check reveals this claim is Mostly False.
The Claim
A Facebook post is going viral, claiming that a probiotic toothpaste can instantly make your teeth super white. The advertisement video shows very unrealistic results after toothbrushing, like complete removal of plaque, tough stains, and significantly brighter teeth. The video caption says:
“Say goodbye to yellow teeth and hello to a brighter smile with our Intensive Teeth Whitening Toothpaste™. Helps whiten the teeth efficiently, comprehensive protection of Tooth enamel. Limit tooth formation. Eliminate unpleasant mouth odour. Remove Years of Stains. Safe & Gentle for Daily Use.”
Fact Check
What is plaque and tartar?
Plaque forms when bacteria in the mouth mix with sugars and starches from food, creating a sticky film on the teeth. If not removed through regular brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into tartar, a solid deposit that adheres to the teeth and can only be removed by a dentist. Plaque contributes to tooth decay and gum disease, while tartar can lead to more severe gum conditions.
What is a probiotic toothpaste?
Probiotic toothpaste introduces good bacteria into your mouth to help keep harmful bacteria in check, reducing the risk of cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. This idea is part of a broader approach in dentistry called probiotic therapy, which aims to change the bacteria in dental plaque to prevent oral health issues. Probiotics work by boosting your mouth’s natural defences, while prebiotics help these good bacteria grow. When combined, they can be even more effective at maintaining healthy teeth and gums, showing promise in preventing and treating oral problems.
What is the product about?
The SP-4 Ultra+ Whitening Probiotic Toothpaste is being marketed as a multifunctional toothpaste which can potentially whiten teeth while promoting overall oral health. The toothpaste contains probiotics for fresh breath and gum health, whitening agents like hydrated silicon and diamond powder to remove stains, and claims to deep clean teeth and protect gums. It’s marketed with bold claims of instant whitening, supported by before-and-after images, and is presented as a gentle, effective daily oral care solution. The product page lacks important details like full ingredients list, which raises concerns on the authenticity of the product.
Claim 1: Instant teeth whitening
The product’s claim that it can instantly make teeth super white is highly exaggerated, even teeth with hardened plaque (tartar) and tough stains. Scientifically, teeth whitening usually requires active ingredients like hydrogen peroxide, which work over time to break down stains. Probiotics and the other mentioned ingredients (hydrated silicon and diamond powder) do not have the chemical properties needed for immediate whitening. Thus, the claim of instant results, like the way it’s shown, is misleading.
Claim 2: Removal of tough stains and plaque
The toothpaste may help in reducing surface stains and controlling plaque formation. But, it is unlikely to remove tough, deeply embedded stains or hardened plaque (tartar) with just brushing. Such conditions require professional dental treatments. The promotional images likely exaggerate the actual efficacy of the toothpaste.
Claim 3: Probiotic benefits
The inclusion of probiotics in toothpaste is to support a healthy oral microbiome. This could have benefits for reducing bad breath and potentially improving gum health. However, probiotics’ role in teeth whitening is minimal, as their main function is to balance bacteria in the mouth, not to bleach or lighten tooth enamel.
Claim 4: Plaque removal technology
The product claims to use a “plaque removal technology” that dissolves stains instantly and accelerates plaque removal. Good oral hygiene can reduce plaque. But, there’s limited evidence that any over-the-counter toothpaste can effectively remove plaque buildup like the way it’s shown, in such a short span of time. Moreover, once plaque hardens into tartar, it can only be removed by a dental professional.
Claim 5: Use of advanced ingredients like diamond powder
Diamond powder is used in some high-end toothpastes for its abrasive qualities, which can help in polishing the teeth and removing surface stains. However, it is essential to use such abrasives cautiously, as excessive use can wear down enamel over time. The effectiveness of diamond powder in teeth whitening, especially in such a short timeframe, is not well-documented.
Can a probiotic toothpaste really make your teeth super white instantly?
No, not really. Probiotic toothpaste can offer several oral health benefits. However, there is no scientific evidence supporting the claim that it can instantly make teeth super white. Teeth whitening, especially when dealing with tough stains or yellowing, requires chemical agents like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These chemicals work by penetrating the tooth enamel to break down stains.
The images and videos promoting such instant whitening results are likely exaggerated and misleading. Teeth whitening is a gradual process that cannot be achieved in a single brushing session. And, especially not with a toothpaste that primarily focuses on balancing oral bacteria rather than using strong bleaching agents.
We sought valuable insights from Dr Pooja Sharma, BDS, MDS, NIMS University, Jaipur, Rajasthan, about her take on the effectiveness of probiotic toothpastes for teeth whitening. She states, “It’s important to be cautious with products that promise instant results! Especially when it comes to teeth whitening. Professional guidance is important to ensure both the safety and effectiveness of any whitening treatment.” Dr Sharma emphasises the importance of professional consultation and treatment to ensure safety and achieve desired results.
We also checked with Dr Snigdha, BDS, MDS, Vananchal Dental College and Hospital, Garhwa, Jharkhand, regarding the probiotic toothpaste’s working. She says, “Probiotic toothpaste can support oral health by balancing the bacteria in your mouth, but the idea that it can instantly whiten teeth is simply not supported by scientific evidence. Teeth whitening is a process that involves more potent agents and longer time.”
Can you remove plaque at home?
Yes, you can remove plaque at home through regular and thorough brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash. Sodium bicarbonate or baking soda is notably effective for biofilm or plaque removal at home. However, once plaque hardens into tartar, it becomes much more challenging to remove at home. It requires professional dental cleaning.
Plaque forms when bacteria in your mouth mix with sugary or starchy foods, producing acids that can harm your teeth and gums. Regular brushing (at least twice a day) and flossing (once a day) are essential for keeping plaque at bay. While some products claim to dissolve plaque, their effectiveness can vary, and professional dental cleanings are often the best option for tartar removal.
What is the best way to remove teeth stains naturally?
Teeth stains can be minimised and, to some extent, removed through various natural methods. These include:
- Baking soda and hydrogen peroxide: A paste made from these ingredients like baking soda and hydrogen peroxide can help scrub away surface stains.
- Oil pulling: Swishing coconut oil in your mouth may reduce bacteria and decrease the risk of plaque, which can lead to staining.
- Eating fruits and vegetables: Crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, and celery can help keep your teeth healthy.
However, natural methods are usually effective for surface stains only and may not be enough for deeper, intrinsic stains. For significant whitening, professional treatments or over-the-counter products containing bleaching agents are generally more effective.
What are the disadvantages of trying at-home dental procedures?
At-home dental procedures can seem convenient and cost-effective, but they come with certain risks:
- Ineffectiveness: Many over-the-counter or home remedies may not provide the desired results, especially for significant issues like deep stains or tartar buildup.
- Damage to enamel: Some DIY whitening methods, like using acidic fruits or excessive baking soda, can erode enamel. This can lead to increased sensitivity and the risk of cavities.
- Incomplete plaque removal: At-home tools and techniques may not be able to remove tartar effectively. This is likely to give rise to gum disease or other oral health issues if not addressed professionally. Oral health issues are also linked to a higher risk of pneumonia, dementia and heart disease.
THIP Media Take
Probiotic toothpaste can support oral health by balancing bacteria in the mouth. But, the claim that it can make teeth super white instantly is an exaggeration. Teeth whitening, especially for noticeable results, usually requires more potent treatments and a longer period. Super white teeth is a popular topic among social media influencers, with many spreading misleading claims for quick results. For instance, a mixture of vaseline, coffee and toothpaste can whiten your teeth, or toothpaste and cinnamon for teeth whitening or teeth whitening serums in the market. All these lack conclusive scientific evidence. For optimal oral health and whitening, it’s best to combine regular professional dental care with safe, scientifically-backed at-home practices.
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