Sunday, February 07, 2010

Dental Did You Know: What's in your Toothpaste Part 1

Hydrated Silica: also known as Silicic Acid, Silica Gel, and Amorphous Silicon Dioxide
Chemical Formula: SiO2.nH20
Description: Transparent Gel
Use: It is the abrasive used in gel toothpaste or as a secondary abrasive in opaque toothpastes

Source: Field S, Why There's Antifreeze in Your Toothpaste: The Chemistry of Household Ingredients, Chicago Review Press, 2008, pg 239-240.

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100