Baking soda

Carrageenan

Chamomile (German)

Fluoride

Ginger

Glycerin

Glycyrrhizin

Glyceryl laurate

Hectorite clay

Hops

Lemongrass

Lichen

Natural flavors

Poloxamer 335 and 407

Potassium nitrate

Propolis

Propylene glycol

Sage

Silica, hydrated

Silica shells

Sodium lauryl sulfate

Sorbitol

Sucrose cocoate 

Xanthan gum

Xylitol

Zinc citrate

Zinc ricinoleate

Further ingredient research:

Search the databases of the American Botanical Council for the latest research on herbal ingredients.

Ingredient Fact Sheet: Zinc Citrate

What is it?

Zinc citrate is derived from zinc, a naturally occurring mineral. Citric acid (derived from corn) is combined with the zinc (zinc oxide) and a precipitate is formed which is purified and dried.

What does it do in our oral care products?

Tartar forms in the mouth when plaque mineralizes on your teeth. The resulting hard deposits (calcified plaque or tartar) can only be removed by a dentist or hygienist. If allowed to accumulate, tartar can provide even more surface area for plaque to accumulate. Zinc citrate helps prevent tartar buildup by preventing plaque from hardening (calcifying).

Gingivitis is a disease of the gums that occurs when bacteria accumulate on teeth, producing toxins and irritants that lead to red, puffy gums. If left untreated, gingivitis can result in tooth loss and other health problems. Zinc citrate helps prevent gingivitis by inhibiting bacterial accumulation on teeth and gums.

What are the alternatives?

Alternatives to zinc citrate in the fight against gingivitis are triclosan and the combination of four essential oils: menthol, eucalyptol, methyl salicylate, and thymol. However, triclosan is an aromatic, tri-chlorinated synthetic compound, and so not in keeping with our commitment to use only natural ingredients in our natural care products. As for the combination of four essential oils, in order to get that combination to work against gingivitis it is necessary to add a large amount of alcohol, an ingredient we do not use in any of our products.

What are the risks?

Zinc citrate is considered a safe and appropriate ingredient for tartar control and antigingivitis oral care products. Although there are no known health risks related to using products that contain zinc citrate, some users of the oral care products may experience a metallic aftertaste.

Tom's of Maine recognizes that no two people are alike, and even with pure and natural ingredients, some individuals may develop an allergic reaction that is unique to them. As with any product, be sure to discontinue use if you experience discomfort or other indications that the product may not be appropriate for your individual body chemistry.