Calcium carbonate 100g

Description

What Is Calcium Carbonate?

Calcium carbonate (CaCO3) is a white, odorless, chalk-like substance derived from natural sources such as limestone, seashells, eggshells, and marble. It’s commonly used in toothpaste as a mild abrasive and stabilizing agent to help remove plaque and polish the tooth surface effectively.

Calcium carbonate is also used as an antacid for heartburn relief and as a calcium supplement.

Why It’s Used In Toothpaste

Calcium carbonate is a vital toothpaste ingredient because it supports mineral balance in enamel, and its mild abrasion improves teeth whitening by removing surface stains and plaque. It plays a dual role in both oral health and product formulation.

As an edible and non-toxic mineral, it’s not harmful if swallowed. This makes it an ideal toothpaste ingredient for children.

Mild Whitening Abrasive

As a gentle polishing agent (ranking at a 3 on the Mohs scale), calcium carbonate helps to remove surface stains and dental plaque without eroding tooth enamel.

This makes it a safe and effective ingredient for whitening toothpaste formulations that aim to brighten smiles through physical means, unlike other formulations that use sodium fluoride as their active ingredient, or dental treatments that bleach teeth through chemicals.

Tooth Remineralization Support

Calcium carbonate contributes calcium ions to the oral environment, which are essential for the natural remineralization process.

It helps to strengthen enamel, which can help sensitive teeth grow stronger, protect against demineralization, and maintain healthy teeth.

 As a natural source of calcium that assists with enamel repair, it’s favored by biologic dentistry, which emphasizes a whole-body approach to oral health care.

Helps Rebalance Oral pH

Acidic conditions in the mouth can lead to tooth enamel erosion and tooth decay. Calcium carbonate helps neutralize oral acids, helping to restore and maintain a balanced pH level in the mouth.

This function is important for cavity prevention and overall oral wellness. When paired with calcium fluoride, it can also help prevent tartar and tooth decay.

Thickens Toothpaste and Makes It White

In addition to its cleaning and remineralizing roles, calcium carbonate acts as a thickening agent. Without it, the paste would be too watery and slump more easily.

When calcium carbonate is added, it gives the formulation a smooth texture and bright white color, enhancing both the feel and visual appeal of the toothpaste.

Most people tolerate it well, but individuals with specific tooth sensitivities to minerals or underlying conditions should consult a dental care professional before use.

Natural and non-toxic, calcium carbonate toothpaste is better for your oral health than fluoride–based oral care products.

That being said, individuals who have a high calcium level in their body from overexposure should be aware of the side effects of a potential “overdose” of calcium, including:

• Abdominal pain
• Confusion
• Muscle twitching
• Headaches
• Kidney stones
• Acute renal failure

For these adverse effects to occur, though, an individual would have to intake over 7 grams daily, while regular recommended doses are 500-1000mg.