Bioactive components in children´s toothpastes: mechanisms and evidence-based effects on plaque, caries and salivary pH
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.34119/bjhrv8n6-009Keywords:
children’s toothpaste, bioactive components, fluoride, hydroxyapatite, CPP-ACP, xylitol, caries, pediatric dentistryAbstract
Considering the high prevalence of dental caries in children and the diversity of children’s toothpaste formulations, there is a need to critically evaluate active components and their effects on dental plaque, caries, and salivary pH. This study aims to review and synthesize scientific evidence on the main ingredients of pediatric toothpastes — including fluorides (NaF, MFP, SnF₂), hydroxyapatite, calcium-phosphate complexes (CPP-ACP), xylitol, detergents, and abrasives — describing their mechanisms of action and clinical implications in pediatric dentistry. To this end, an integrative literature review was conducted across PubMed, PMC, and SciELO, prioritizing systematic reviews, clinical guidelines, and randomized controlled trials published up to 2025. It was observed that fluoride-containing toothpastes show robust efficacy in caries prevention and remineralization of initial lesions; alternatives such as hydroxyapatite and CPP-ACP demonstrate promising remineralizing potential; xylitol contributes as an adjunct anticariogenic agent; and detergents and abrasives enhance mechanical plaque removal, with safety dependent on formulation. These findings allow the conclusion that the selection of children’s toothpaste should consider caries risk, age, ability to expectorate, possible allergies, and sensory acceptability, highlighting evidence-based formulations as a central tool for caries prevention in pediatric dentistry.
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