Dental experts raised concerns about the antibacterial chemical Triclosan, which was previously added to some toothpaste. They warn that growing evidence linking the substance to potential health risks has led to its removal from several oral-care products. Initially introduced to improve oral hygiene by fighting harmful bacteria, triclosan was widely used in toothpaste formulations. However, recent studies suggesting possible cancer risks and other systemic effects have prompted many manufacturers to discontinue its use.
Health experts say the chemical could potentially affect anyone exposed to it. They therefore urge consumers to prioritise safer oral-care products and maintain proper dental hygiene practices.
They also advised Nigerians to use toothpaste containing Fluoride, which helps prevent tooth decay and strengthens tooth enamel. However, they cautioned that excessive fluoride exposure in children can cause dental fluorosis, characterised by white streaks or specks on the teeth, and may also affect bones, joints, the thyroid, and neurological health.
Findings from online health platforms and scientific studies show that triclosan has been detected in the blood, urine, and breast milk of users. Some research has suggested that the chemical may also be linked to colon cancer.
According to Breast Cancer Prevention Partners, triclosan is considered a potential endocrine disruptor in humans because it can increase thyroid hormone levels and negatively affect environmental health. The organisation added that even low levels of the chemical may promote the growth of oestrogen-sensitive breast cancer cells.
Speaking with PUNCH Healthwise, a former President of the Nigerian Dental Association, Kolawole Obagbemiro, said triclosan had been widely used in toothpaste because of its antibacterial properties. According to him, some studies have shown that it is carcinogenic, which is why many informed users and manufacturers have discontinued it.
Obagbemiro noted that concerns about systemic exposure and possible health effects led to the removal of triclosan from some popular toothpaste brands. “Some toothpastes contained it before now, but because of the health concerns, it has been discontinued,” he added.
Beyond possible cancer risks, the dentist said some studies have also linked triclosan to effects on the reproductive system. He recommended fluoride toothpaste as a safer option and emphasised proper oral hygiene, including brushing twice daily with only a small amount of toothpaste. “It should just be a pea-sized quantity. It is not the quantity that matters. Brushing morning and evening is enough,” he advised.
In another interview with PUNCH Healthwise, Obagbemiro said children should not use adult toothpaste because of its high fluoride content. He advised parents to measure toothpaste according to age: “Zero to two would be measured as the size of a grain of rice. For older children, they should take the pea size.” He warned that misuse could lead to stomach upset or low intelligence quotient and advised parents to begin dental visits once children start developing teeth.
Also speaking, the immediate past President of the Nigerian Dental Association, Tope Adeyemi, cautioned against children using adult toothpaste because of its higher fluoride concentration. He noted that children often swallow toothpaste, warning that excessive fluoride ingestion could lead to toxicity. “One main reason children should not use adult toothpaste is the fluoride content. Adult toothpastes have higher fluoride concentrations compared to those used by children. Most children tend to swallow the toothpaste. If they swallow too much fluoride, it can cause toxicity. That is one reason their toothpastes have lower fluoride content so that when they swallow, it will not get to the level of toxicity,” Adeyemi said.
