Earlier this week, 1st Family Dental became aware of a news report  regarding toothpaste with polyethylene – the presence of what are commonly known as “microbeads” in some types of Crest toothpaste.  The report stated that dental hygienists were reporting finding these blue “microbeads” under the gum line in some patients.

In general, it is important to ensure the areas at and below the gum line are free of any kind of particles and surfaces for bacteria to collect, which could lead to irritation and gum disease.

1st Family Dental Removes Toothpaste With Polyethylene From Stock:

While there are no specific risks associated with this ingredient, as a precaution, 1st Family Dental has removed any Crest toothpaste products that contain “microbeads” from our inventory and will replace them with an alternative as soon as possible.

More Information About Microbeads: 

The ingredient “microbeads” are made of polyethylene.  The FDA has listed this ingredient as safe and acceptable to use in personal care products, and no specific risk is associated with the use of Crest toothpaste products.

Procter & Gamble, the makers of Crest toothpaste, have reported that they will remove this ingredient from the majority of Crest products by March of 2015.  Until this time, 1st Family Dental will seek alternative products to provide for our patients.

The state of Illinois will be instituting a general ban on all products containing “microbeads” including polyethylene and polypropylene, due to environmental impact concerns on the Great Lakes water system.  This ban is set to begin in 2018.

For more information about Crest toothpaste and other products, please contact Procter & Gamble by phone at 800-492-7378, or via online submission here.