Arginine Toothpaste Shows Promise in Reducing Childhood Cavities

A recent clinical trial published in JDR Clinical & Translational Research highlights the effectiveness of arginine-containing dentifrices in managing childhood dental caries. The study, conducted over two years across three centers in China, involved 6,000 children aged 10 to 14 who had multiple active cavities. Participants were assigned to use one of three types of toothpaste: 8.0% arginine, 1.5% arginine, or 0.32% sodium fluoride (NaF) as a control.

Results revealed that the toothpaste with 8.0% arginine significantly reduced the number of decayed, missing, and filled surfaces (DMFS) by 26.0%, and decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT) by 25.3%, compared to the NaF control group. In contrast, the 1.5% arginine formulation showed no significant difference from the fluoride control.

These findings indicate that higher concentrations of arginine in toothpaste can be as effective or even more effective than traditional fluoride-based products in preventing dental decay among children with active cavities. While fluoride remains a cornerstone of caries prevention, this research suggests that arginine-based dentifrices could serve as a valuable alternative or complement, especially for populations at higher risk of dental decay.

Further research into optimal concentrations and long-term effects could pave the way for new, more effective oral health strategies. This study underscores the potential of alternative active ingredients in dental care, promoting better oral health outcomes for children worldwide.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-arginine-dentifrices-significantly-childhood-caries.html