Is Toothpaste an Acid or Base?
A study performed by the Canadian Dental Association found that toothpaste varied between an acidic, neutral, and basic pH level, depending on the ingredients it contained.
The average pH level of nine toothpastes tested was 6.83 (slightly acidic). They had a range of pH levels, from 4.22 (acidic) to 8.35 (slightly alkaline or basic). Seven of these measured within one point of neutral (a level of seven).
Toothpastes containing fluoride, sodium lauryl sulfate, sugar and harsh abrasives are more acidic than those without these ingredients. Xylitol, in particular, has been proven to greatly decrease acid levels in toothpaste. Other ingredients that increase a toothpaste’s alkalinity include baking soda, tetrasodium pyrophosphate and sodium carbonate peroxide.
