Relative Dentin Abrasivity Toothpaste Chart | Distinctive Dentistry (2024)

Relative dentin abrasivity (RDA) is a method of measuring of the erosive effect of abrasives in toothpasteon tooth dentin. It involves using standardized abrasives compared against the test sample. The determination of this value is done by determining the activity while cleaning worn dentin which is radioactively marked by mildneutron irradiation. The values obtained depend on the size, quantity and surface structure of abrasive used in toothpastes.

Since 1998, the RDA value is set by the standards DIN EN ISO 11609. Currently, in US, the claim on products such as toothpaste are not regulated by law. The procedure was later adopted byAmerican Dental Associationfor measuring of Relative Dentin Abrasion Index.

Toothpaste makers regularly measure their product’s abrasivity. It’s necessary for FDA approval and usually is not required to be disclosed on the label. Abrasivity measurements are given by what’s known as an RDA value which stands for radioactive dentin abrasion orrelative dentin abrasivity. The maximum value for FDA approval is 200. Kinds of toothpaste that claim whitening properties appear to have a higher abrasiveness index.

Here is how to interpret the RDA values:

• From 0 to 80 = low abrasion
• 70 to 100 = midrange abrasion
• 100 to 150 = highly abrasive
• 150 to 250 = considered harmful to teeth

The lower the number, the less enamel/dentin it is likely to be worn away. The higher the number – the more wear on your dentition. The ideal toothpaste would not have a RDA index higher than 7; therefore dentifrices with a low abrasivity index are desirable.

The Relative Dentin Abrasivity Toothpaste Table