How can we test that abrasives are safe?
Major toothpaste manufacturers measure and test the abrasive safety of toothpaste. This is done in a laboratory by measuring the radioactive dentine abrasivity index. This is also called the RDA. Toothpastes with an RDA of 250 or less are recommended as “safe for a lifetime of use”.
More information on the RDA
The RDA is an international standardised reference guide for toothpastes used in the lab by companies that make toothpaste. The RDA has been set as an international standard by the International Standards Organisation. International Standards are rules, guidelines and processes that are used to make sure that companies reach the same outcome. This helps to make sure that all over the world, toothpastes can be measured by the same guide for quality and safety. For a toothpaste to follow the standard, it must have an RDA of 250 or less. Toothpastes with an RDA of 250 or less are recommended as “safe for a lifetime of use”.
The RDA is supported by research. It is accepted by professional groups around the world. These groups include the British Standards Institute, the American Dental Association, and the World Dental Federation.