Is Toothpaste a Cosmetic or a Medical Product? A Review

Year 2025, Volume: 5 Issue: 3, 214 - 220, 31.12.2025

Esmanur Çiğ , Yasin Çiçek

https://doi.org/10.61139/ijdor.1744897

Abstract

Oral and dental health directly affects general health and quality of life. Toothpastes, commonly used to achieve healthy, white, and aesthetic teeth, are often considered cosmetic products and are easily accessible. However, there is ongoing debate regarding whether toothpastes should be classified as cosmetic or pharmaceutical products. This review aims to provide a new perspective on the existing literature by examining the definition, composition, intended use, types, dosages, and potential risks of toothpastes. For this purpose, a total of 33 peer-reviewed articles published in English and Turkish between 2000 and 2024, along with one official institutional report, were analyzed from databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect. The findings were thematically categorized and interpreted using content analysis. The results indicate that regulations and public awareness related to toothpaste use should be improved. Furthermore, it is concluded that toothpaste products should be recommended based on individual needs under the guidance of dental professionals.

Keywords

Cosmetics , oral hygiene , pharmaceutical preparations , toothpastes

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