Recently, one of the world’s most popular toothpastes, Colgate Total, has come under major scrutiny over health concerns related to one of its active ingredients – Triclosan. Despite having been available in the market for 17 years, providing consumers protection against plaque and gingivitis, such issue that takes on health is not something that people and dentists in Phoenix will simply let pass. So, in this blog post, let’s take a closer look at the benefits and risks of triclosan in toothpaste and let you decide.
Benefits
Triclosan is an antibacterial agent found not only in toothpaste but also in several other consumer products like cosmetics, soaps, detergents, toys, surgical cleaning treatments and more. In toothpaste, its proven health benefit is the prevention of gingivitis (inflammation of the gum tissue). Its safety and efficacy has been affirmed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and health authorities in Europe, Australia and Canada, and several other professional organizations across the globe.
In a study conducted by the Cochrane Oral Health Group, the active antibacterial system in Colgate Total has found a reduction of 22% in plaque and gingivitis, a 41% reduction in the severity of plaque, and a 48% reduction in gum bleeding after six or more months of use compared with traditional fluoride toothpaste.
Risks
There is not enough evidence to advise the avoidance of products that contain triclosan. However, recent studies have raised concerns about the possible risks of such agent to human health. Research has shown that triclosan alters hormone regulation in animals, may disrupt the immune system and may contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant microorganisms. Recent claims have also linked triclosan to cancer.
Nonetheless, several experts have defended the product, and regulators worldwide has reviewed three different studies conducted in three different animal species to a conclusion that the product is absolutely safe. The World Health Organization has also rejected claims related to endocrine disruption. In a clinical study that involves two human subjects, there was no evidence that triclosan in toothpaste has potential negative endocrine impact.
Colgate Total is one of the most tested and reviewed toothpaste in the world with a broad set of safety evaluations and more than 90 clinical studies involving 20, 000 people. It is the only toothpaste that is approved by both the FDA and the American Dental Association (ADA).
Consumers and some dentists in Phoenix have started ditching Colgate Total for fear that the product will lead to such mentioned health effects but as a Colgate Australian spokeswoman, Tamara Daran, has said, “…triclosan in Colgate Total is safe.” And added, “Colgate Total users can be fully confident in the safety of our toothpaste and the distinctive health benefits it provides fighting gingivitis.” With these facts laid down, now you decide.