A Product Analysis of Colgate Maximum Cavity

Protection

Gr.11-ABM2
Group 3
January 17, 2017
Submitted by:
Jireh Micah Danielle Manait
Debbie Pesigan
Submitted to:
Mr. Alfredo Alcantara

CHAPTER I
INTRODUCTION
One of the most important things for ones health is maintaining good oral hygiene. Good
oral hygiene makes the mouth look and smell healthy. Moreover, having a healthy teeth will
make a person eat and speak properly. It may also enhance the self-confidence of a person.
Colgate is an oral hygiene toothpaste product, toothbrushes, gargles and dental floss. Majority of
the people use Colgate as their toothpaste. Colgate was the first toothpaste in a collapsible tube
which was introduced in 1896 in New York. (Swanson)
Colgate is marketed as a tooth-cleaning product from Colgate-Palmolive Corporation.
Their toothpaste is not meant to be absorbed, and should be rinsed thoroughly after using. Its
original purpose is for cavity protection, however it has been discovered for other uses, such as
facial cleanser, for acne, burns, for whitening of piano keys, etc. Consuming too much toothpaste
via swallowing can give the users side effects of giddiness, biliousness, headache and nausea.
(Hubbard)
The purpose of this research is to know the different chemicals inside of it, the different
benefits brought by utilizing the product and the possible risks of using Colgate to our health.
The importance of this study is to analyze the product and to give information to the users. This
will let them know what the basis of each element is and why Colgate-Palmolive Corporation,
used each element or ingredient in their specific product.
In this analysis, the active and inactive ingredients and the possible danger of the
ingredients to consumers health will be discussed.

CHAPTER II
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REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

Nature of Toothpaste
There are different classes of ingredients you will discover in all toothpastes, and others
only in products designed for particular purposes, such as, reducing sensitivity, tartar or gum
irritation, or whitening your teeth.
Abrasives
Abrasives have been created to clean yet protect tooth enamel. High levels of abrasives
may not be a good thing, since they can harm your teeth sensitive by weakening enamel. It's
preferable to use toothpaste with a gentle abrasive. In toothpastes, the abrasives include hydrated
silica, hydrated alumina, calcium carbonate, and dicalcium phosphates. (Dr. Stookey, 2012)
Detergents
The purpose of the detergent is to release and separate substances on your teeth that
couldnt be dissolved and rinsed with water. Detergents are able to break through the tension on
the surface of a liquid. Sodium lauryl sulfate is the most common detergent in toothpaste. (Dr.
Stookey, 2012)
Fluoride
Fluoride serves to strengthen tooth enamel and make teeth more resistant to decay.
Fluoride is incorporated into the enamel structure. Tooth enamel strengthened with fluoride is
more resistant to acid attack. There are three types of fluoride used in toothpaste. Sodium
fluoride (NaF) is the most often type of fluoride used in toothpaste. Stannous fluoride (SnF 2),
another kind of fluoride, may stain the tooth surface yellow or brown. Monofluorophosphate
(Na2PO3F) is believed to help prevent tooth decay alone, but could have too many side effects
that outweigh the benefits. The best way to help prevent tooth decay and have a healthy, happy
smile is to eat healthy nutritious foods and brush and floss daily. (Dr. Stookey, 2012)
Surfactants
This is a detergent that also acts as the foaming agent in the toothpaste. It is a harsh
ingredient and it's better to find and use Sodium lauryl sulfate free toothpaste. (Dr. Stay, 1993)

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Antibacterial agents
Triclosan is one of the antibacterial medications used in toothpaste. Long-term use of
any antibacterial ingredient may cause more problems than benefits by promoting antibiotic
resistant bacteria. (Dr. Stay, 1993)
Flavors
Mint is the most common flavor, along with peppermint, spearmint and wintergreen.
Natural toothpaste brands often use more exotic flavors made from anise, fennel, lavender, and
other plants. These types of essential oils may cause allergies and tissue irritation. Just because
its natural doesnt mean its good for you. (Dr. Stookey, 2012)
Remineralization
Some toothpaste are formulated to help strengthen enamel (outer surface of the tooth).
Calcium phosphate is typically the ingredient used. (Dr. Stay, 1993)
Thickeners
Carrageenan, cellulose gum, guar gum and xanthan gum are common thickening
agents. For those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity who want to avoid gluten, xanthan gum
is a safe alternative. Irritation from this ingredient is rare, with the most common side effect
being bloating or gas. This would normally occur by ingesting large quantities of xanthan gum,
which would be much higher than what is usually used for toothpaste. (Dr. Stay, 1993)
Preservatives
To help prevent microorganisms from growing in toothpaste, certain preservatives are
added. These may include sodium benzoate, methyl paraben, and ethyl paraben. Between the
three common preservatives, sodium benzoate is the safest. Some natural toothpaste use citric
acid. Too much citric acid may cause side effects such as stomach cramps, diarrhea, nausea or
vomiting. (Dr. Stay, 1993)
Sweeteners
To improve the taste of toothpaste, especially those containing the horrible taste of
sodium lauryl sulfate, such sweeteners as saccharin, stevia or xylitol are added. The best form is
xylitol, since it does have many benefits for a healthy mouth. (Dr. Stay, 1993)

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Coloring Agents
Artificial dyes and coloring agents are not uncommon in most commercial toothpaste.
Titanium dioxide may also be used to make toothpaste white. Its best to avoid toothpaste with
artificial dyes and colorings. (Dr. Stay, 1993)
Humectant
Humectants give toothpaste texture and help to retain moisture to keep it from drying out.
Glycerin, sorbitol and water are common humectants. Xylitol is the best type of humectant since
it has multiple benefits, including increasing the flow of saliva, which helps prevent dry mouth,
and also to help prevent tooth decay. Humectants also help to prevent water loss. (Dr. Stay, 1993)
Properties of Ingredients
Sodium monofluorophosphate is utilized as a part of
toothpastes to secure tooth enamel from bacteria. Also, it
can be applied with abrasives that contain calcium, which
keeps sodium fluoride from being effective. It diminishes
the capacity of bacteria to make acids, and remineralize
the areas of the tooth that have been attacked by acids
from bacteria. (Sci-Toys.com)
However, it causes discolored teeth, weakened
tooth enamel or any changes in the appearance of
your teeth. (gmedication)

Figure 2.1 Structure of Sodium

monofluorophosphate
Molecular Formula: Na2PO3F
IUPAC Name: disodium;fluoro-dioxido-oxo$l^{5}-phosphane
Source:https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
compound/sodium_monofluorophosphate#sec
tion=Top

Sodium fluoride is added to drinking water to

prevent a disease (tooth decay), and as such becomes a
medicine by FDA definition. (Dr. Mercola, 2013)
Sodium fluoride is primarily indicated in conditions
like a variety of solid tumours, acute leukaemia, chronic
lymphocytic leukaemia and lymphomas. (gmedication)

Figure 2.2 Structure of Sodium fluoride

Molecular Formula: NaF
IUPAC Name: sodium;fluoride
Source:https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
compound/\sodium_fluoride#section=Co
mputed-Descriptors

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Dicalcium phosphate dihydrate is commonly used in water insoluble pharmaceutical

excipient, has been investigated for its use in formulating a controlled release matrix type tablet
for highly water soluble drugs. (Turco, 2008)
Figure 2.3 Structure of Dicalcium
phosphate dihydrate
Molecular formula: CaH5O6P
IUPAC Name: calcium;hydrogen
phosphate;dihydrate
Source:http://www.worldofchemicals.com/che
micals / chemical-properties/dicalciumphosphate-dihydrate.html

According to the Yourdictionary, water is a liquid

found on Earth, which is known as H 2O that has no odor
or taste. Toothpaste contains between 2042 percent water
to help keep it from drying out. Most brands contain at
least 50 percent abrasives. This is one ingredient that helps
your teeth get clean.
Figure 2.4 Structure of Water
Molecular Formula: H2O
IUPAC Name: oxidane
Source:https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/com
pound/water#section=Canonical-SMILES

Glycerine which is also called glycerol is an odorless

chemical used as an additive in many pharmaceutical
products and cosmetics. Glycerin is a sweetening and
preserving agent used in toothpaste.

Sorbitol is a polyhydric alcohol with about half the

sweetness of sucrose. Sorbitol is also regularly used in

Figure 2.5 Structure of Glycerine

Molecular formula: C3H8O3
IUPAC Name: propane-1,2,3-triol
Source:https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/com
pound/glycerol#section=Names-andIdentifiers

the formulation of oral care products such as toothpaste and

mouthwash. (diabetes.co.uk)
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Side effects caused by using sorbitol include nausea, diarrhea, stomach cramps or anal
irritation, hives, difficult breathing, swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat, rectal bleeding,
weakness, dizziness, persistent urge to empty the bowel,

Figure 2.6 Structure of Sorbitol

Molecular formula: C6H14O6
IUPAC Name: (2R,3R,4R,5S)-hexane1,2,3,4,5,6-hexol
Source:https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/com
pound/D-Sorbitol#section=Names-andIdentifiers

injury or disorder in digestive tract. (gmedication)

Sodium lauryl sulfate is an anionic surfactant

naturally derived from coconut and/or palm kernel oil. It
usually consists of a mixture of sodium alkyl sulphates,
mainly the lauryl. SLS lowers surface tension of aqueous
solutions and is used as fat emulsifier, wetting agent, and
detergent in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and toothpastes. It
is also used in creams and pastes to properly disperse the
ingredients

and

as

research

tool

in

Figure 2.7 Structure of Sodium Lauryl

Sulfate
Molecular formula: C12H25NaO4S
IUPAC Name: sodium;dodecyl sulfate
Source:https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/com
pound/Sodium_dodecyl_sulfate#section=Nam
es-and-Identifiers

protein

biochemistry. SLS also has some microbicidal activity

which used as fat emulsifier, wetting agent, detergent in
cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and toothpastes; also as a
research tool in protein biochemistry.

Cellulose gum is essentially a thickening agent used in

all kinds of food products. It is used as a bulk laxative and as
an

emulsifier

and

thickener

in

cosmetics

and

pharmaceuticals and as a stabilizer for reagents.

Figure 2.8 Structure of Cellulose Gum

Molecular formula: C8H16O8
IUPAC Name: acetic acid;2,3,4,5,6
pentahydroxyhexanal
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Source:https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/com
pound/24748#section=3D-Conformer

Tetrapotassium phyrophospate is a whitish-coloured

powdered solid. Tetrapotassium pyrophosphate is widely
used as buffering agent, emulsifier, dispersing agent and
thickening agent in food production. As a sequestering,
buffering

and

emulsifying

agent,

Tetrapotassium

pyrophosphate can be used in a wide variety of industries

including: food production, beverage, and other various

Figure 2.9 Structure of Tetrapotassium

phyrophospate
Molecular formula: Na4P2O7
IUPAC Name: tetrapotassium phosphonato
phosphate
Source:https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/com
pound/tetrasodium_pyrophosphate#section=T
op

industries. It is toxic by ingestion, and/or inhalation.

Contact with the substance should be avoided.

Sodium saccharin is an odorless white crystals or

crystalline powder and has intensely sweet taste. Saccharin
is often blended with other artificial sweeteners to
compensate

for

each

sweetener

weaknesses.

The

consumption of saccharin-sweetened products can benefit

diabetics as the substance goes directly through the human
digestive system without being digested.

Figure 2.10 Structure of Sodium saccharin

Molecular Formula: C7H5NO3S
IUPAC Name: 1,1-dioxo-1,2-benzothiazol-27|Page
id-3-onec
Source:https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/com
pound/saccharin#section=Names-and
Identifiers

Standards for Toothpaste Labels

According to FDA standards for labeling and regulations, the label must appear on the
inside as well as any outside container or wrapper. The net quantity of contents of the principal
display panel, only apply to the label of the outer container. In addition, the principal display
panel must state the name of the product, identify by descriptive name or illustration the nature
or use of the product, and bear an accurate statement of the net quantity of contents of the
cosmetic in the package in terms of weight, measure, numerical count, or a combination of
numerical count and weight or measure. The declaration must be distinct, placed in the bottom
area of the panel in line generally parallel to the base on which the package rests, and in a type
size commensurate with the size of the container as prescribed by regulation. Moreover, the net
quantity of contents must be in terms of the avoirdupois pound and ounce, followed in
parenthesis () by a declaration of the largest whole units. Moreover, the name and place of
business of the firm marketing the product must be stated on an information panel of the label. If
the distributor is not the manufacturer or packer, this fact must be stated on the label by the
qualifying phrase "Manufactured for ......" or "Distributed by ......" or similar, appropriate
wording.
FDA also requires ingredients to be declared in descending order of predominance. Color
additives and ingredients present at one percent or less may be declared without regard for
predominance. Cosmetics which are also drugs must first identify the drug ingredient(s) as
"active ingredient(s)" before listing the cosmetic ingredients. Additionally, all label statements
required by regulation must be in the English language and must be placed on the label or
labeling with such prominence that they are readily noticed and understood by consumers under
customary conditions of purchase.

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The figure 2.11 shows the before and after of

proper labeling of products of drug & cosmetics where
before includes the improper labeling of the product.
The description, ingredients and other information must
be readable by all of the consumers. It should be in
English language for the people to be understood. Also,
the net quantity of contents should be placed in front of
the packaging. Therefore, the company must follow the
standard labeling of the product before they release it.

Figure 2.11 Standard label for FDA

Drug & Cosmetics

CHAPTER III
ANALYSIS
Nature of Product
Colgate Maximum Cavity Protection includes only abrasives, detergents, fluoride,
surfactants, sweeteners, humectant, flavors, remineralization and thickeners. However, it does
not contain antibacterial agents, preservatives and coloring agents.

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Active and Inactive Ingredients of the Product

The inactive ingredients of the product are dicalcium phosphate dihydrate, water, glycerin,
sorbitol, sodium lauryl sulfate, cellulose gum, flavor, tetrapotassium pyrophosphate, and sodium
saccharin while the active ingredients are sodium monofluorophosphate 0.76% (0.15% w/v
fluoride ion). Fluoride is an active ingredient because it prevents tooth decay and cavities (also
known as caries). Moreover, fluoride toothpastes are more effective at preventing tooth decay at
higher fluoride concentrations.
TABLE 3.1. Use and Purpose of the Products Ingredients

Ingredients

Use/Purpose of the ingredient

Sodium monofluorophosphate

To protect tooth enamel from bacterial

(Active ingredient)

attack that causes cavities.

Sodium fluoride

It hardens tooth enamel and maintain

(Active ingredient)

natural tooth protection.

Dicalcium phosphate dehydrate

To eliminate the odor inside the mouth.

(Inactive ingredient)
Water

To help keep it from drying out.

(Inactive ingredient)
Glycerin

It makes the paste creamy and sweetens

(Inactive ingredient)

the toothpaste at the same time.

Sorbitol

Function as sweetener.

(Inactive Ingredient)
Sodium lauryl sulfate

It causes the foaming action we associate

(Inactive ingredient)

with toothpaste which keeps the

toothpaste in our mouths and removes dirt
and grease from our teeth.

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Cellulose gum

It holds the other ingredients together,

(Inactive ingredient)

forming a paste.

Flavor

To cover tastes of the other ingredients.

(Inactive ingredient)
Tetrapotassium pyrophosphate

It serves to remove calcium and

(Inactive ingredient)

magnesium from the saliva and preventing

them from being deposited on the teeth.

Sodium saccharin

Add sweetness to toothpaste.

(Inactive ingredient)
Table 3.1 shows that there are active and inactive ingredients, though theyre all have its
own purpose or use in toothpaste. Every ingredient is important in making toothpaste and also
they have their own purpose why they are included in toothpaste.

Possible Risk of the Product

Fluoride
Fluoride toothpaste is often the largest single source of fluoride intake for young children
and is a major risk factor for disfiguring dental fluorosis. This is because children swallow a
large amount of the paste that they put in their mouth.
In fact, research has shown that it is not uncommon for young children to swallow more
fluoride from toothpaste alone than what is recommended for an entire day's ingestion from all
sources.
Swallowing fluoride, as is the case with fluoridated drinking water, is especially
detrimental to health, as the science clearly demonstrates that fluoride is a toxic chemical that
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accumulates in tissues over time, wreaks havoc with enzymes, and produces a number of serious
adverse health effects, including neurological and endocrine dysfunction. (Dr. Mercola, 2013)
Safety Measures in using:
All anti-cavity medicines are not the same and may have different age recommendations for
children. You may read the drug facts label carefully and consult a healthcare provider or dentist
as directed. Fluoride-containing products are now recommended as soon as the teeth erupt.
Furthermore, parents and caregivers should help a child brushing his or her teeth until mastery is
obtained. They need to supervise as necessary until children are capable without monitoring.
Children under the age of 6 should use a pea-sized amount of paste or gel to minimize
swallowing. Also, children are particularly at risk for adverse effects of overexposure. It is
recommended that children use a non-fluoride toothpaste, but could also be the same for adults.

Does the label follow the standards?

The label of Colgate Maximum Cavity protection doesnt follow the some of the required
standard labeling. First, the net quantity of content because it must be placed in front, but it was
seen at the back of the packaging. Second, there are no warnings or indications about the product
when it is not used properly. Except for these two requirements, the company follows the
remaining requirement for standards of labeling of products for Drug & Cosmetics. Furthermore,
it was approved by the PDA but one of the ingredients of Colgate Maximum Cavity Protection
which is fluoride was considered a drug so it does not have the right contents.

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CHAPTER IV
CONCLUSION
The information which is in the packaging is complete though it does not follow the proper
position of net quantity and the right labeling for the text to be understood. However, it has the
usage directions, the chemical ingredients of the product, the name of the distributor and what
can Colgate Maximum Cavity protection can do to teeth. The claim of the products which is
written on its label is supported by the analysis of the ingredients, and is therefore can be trusted
by the consumers.

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BIBLIOGRAPHY
Applications and Uses of Tetrapotassium Pyrophosphate. (n.d.). Retrieved December 8, 2016
CFR - Code of Federal Regulations Title 21. (n.d.). Retrieved December 12, 2016
Colgate Maximum Cavity Protection - Colgate Professional. (n.d.). Retrieved December 8, 2016
Colgate-Palmolive Company History: Creating Bright Smiles ... (n.d.). Retrieved December 11,
2016
Drug Development and Industrial Pharmacy. (n.d.). Retrieved January 10, 2017
E, N. L., R, S. J., & Works, V. C. (n.d.). Patent US3066056 - Stabilized dicalcium phosphate
dihydrate. Retrieved December 10, 2016
Fluoride Facts. (n.d.). Retrieved December 11, 2016
L. (1970, January 01). Toothpaste. Retrieved January 9, 2017
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Nagel, R. (n.d.). Glycerin In Your Toothpaste. Retrieved January 9, 2017

Project Gutenburg Free eBooks! | Information Technology News. (n.d.). Retrieved December
9, 2016
Saccharin. (n.d.). Retrieved December 13, 2016
Sodium lauryl sulfate - DrugBank. (n.d.). Retrieved December 7, 2016
Sodium monofluorophosphate 0.0084 mg/mg toothpaste. (n.d.). Retrieved January 8, 2017
Sorbitol. (n.d.). Retrieved January 12, 2017
Stay, D. F. (n.d.). What is toothpaste MADE of? Retrieved January 12, 2017
Summary of Labeling Requirements. (n.d.). Retrieved January 9, 2017
Toothpastes. (n.d.). Retrieved January 12, 2017
Toothpaste What's In It? (n.d.). Retrieved December 13, 2016
Toxic Toothpaste Ingredients You Need to Avoid. (n.d.). Retrieved January 8, 2017
@. (n.d.). Fluoride | KnowYourOTCs.org. Retrieved December 10, 2016
@. (n.d.). Toxic Toothpaste Ingredients You Need to Avoid. Retrieved December 13, 2016

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