The use of the ingredient titanium dioxide is a constant source of debate, causing many people to have concerns about its safety. Titanium dioxide is contained in many toothpastes and cosmetic products such as lipsticks. But what actually is titanium dioxide? Where does this uncertainty come from and how dangerous is titanium dioxide in toothpastes really? We explain so that you can make an informed decision for yourself.

What is titanium dioxide?

Titanium dioxide is a white pigment that is used in many products such as paints, cosmetics and food. It is also used in many toothpastes. The powder is extracted from the mineral ilmenite and is very popular in the industry due to its high opacity and durability.

In toothpastes, its use is indicated by the symbol CI 77891. As a food additive, it is listed as E 171 and is classified as potentially hazardous to health. Although there are these concerns about the use of titanium dioxide in food and cosmetics, it is generally considered safe to use in toothpaste.

Titanium dioxide in food

The use of titanium dioxide in food has raised some concerns in recent years, as it can be used in the form of nanoparticles that can enter the body. In the EU, food manufacturers have been obliged since 2021 to indicate on the label whether titanium dioxide is present in the form of nanoparticles. In Switzerland, the use of titanium dioxide as a food additive has been banned since fall 2022.

But what about the use of titanium dioxide in toothpaste? Is it safe to put this substance in our mouths two or three times a day?

Why is there titanium dioxide in toothpaste?

Titanium dioxide is a frequently used ingredient in toothpaste. The substance helps to better remove plaque and discoloration. It is a very effective whitener and is also used to maintain the typical white color of toothpaste. Furthermore, titanium dioxide improves the texture of the toothpaste and makes it smoother and more pleasant to use in the mouth.

So the reasons why titanium dioxide is contained in certain toothpastes are obvious. But is it safe to put this substance in our mouths two or three times a day? We can give the all-clear: It is carcinogenic if you inhale the nanoparticles. This is not the case with toothpaste.

Is titanium dioxide in toothpaste safe?

There are several reasons why titanium dioxide is considered safe in toothpaste. Firstly, the concentration of titanium dioxide in toothpaste is relatively low compared to other products such as paints and food. Most toothpastes only contain around 1-2% titanium dioxide, which means that the amount we ingest when brushing our teeth is very small.

Another factor that contributes to titanium dioxide in toothpaste being considered safe is the way it is used in the toothpaste formulation. It is usually used as part of a component containing calcium phosphate, which plays an important role in strengthening tooth enamel. This minimizes the risk of overdosing on titanium dioxide.

In addition, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has classified titanium dioxide as safe for human consumption as long as the recommended daily dose is not exceeded. The EFSA has also stated that there is insufficient evidence to suggest that titanium dioxide in toothpaste is carcinogenic or genotoxic. It is carcinogenic if the nanoparticles are inhaled. However, this is not the case with the use and composition of toothpaste.

Toothpaste without titanium dioxide alternatives

If you still have concerns about using titanium dioxide in toothpaste, there are alternative ingredients that can be used in toothpaste as whiteners and to improve texture, such as zinc oxide and calcium carbonate. These ingredients are also safe and have similar properties to titanium dioxide. For a good tooth cleaning without titanium dioxide, you can use EMOFORM Pure & Fresh toothpaste, for example.

Titanium dioxide in toothpastes: Our conclusion

In summary, it can be said that titanium dioxide in toothpaste is a safe ingredient as long as the recommended daily dose is not exceeded. An overdose of titanium dioxide can be ruled out if toothpaste is used for its intended purpose. It is a popular whitening agent, helps remove plaque from teeth and improves the texture of toothpaste.