Diatom Toothpaste Research Report: Advantages in Oral Malodor Removal

Introduction: Background and Research Purpose

Overview of Oral Malodor Issues

Oral malodor (halitosis) is a prevalent oral-health concern that significantly impacts social interactions and self-confidence. According to the 2025 China Oral Malodor Health White Paper, 81% of individuals aged 25–55 have experienced social embarrassment due to bad breath, and 73% rely on “mint-masking” toothpastes whose freshness effect lasts only 30–40 minutes.

The formation of oral malodor is complex. The primary odorants are volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs)—including hydrogen sulfide, methyl mercaptan, and dimethyl sulfide—produced by proteolytic anaerobic bacteria. Additional odor-inducing metabolites such as indole and dimethyl disulfide arise from disturbances in oral microecology. Factors including caries, periodontal disease, thick tongue coating, and food residue accumulation further contribute to unpleasant odor.

Definition and Characteristics of Diatom Toothpaste

Diatom toothpaste is a functional toothpaste formulated with diatomaceous earth (DE) as a primary active component. DE is a naturally formed biogenic sedimentary material composed largely of the fossilized remains of ancient diatoms. Its main component is amorphous silica (SiO₂·nH₂O), typically at 80–90% purity. Owing to its highly porous microstructure—with porosity up to 90% and a surface area of 50–2000 m²/g—DE exhibits excellent adsorption properties.

Key characteristics of diatom toothpaste include:

• Natural diatomaceous earth as the active dezodorizing agent

• Physical adsorption of odor-producing molecules

• Gentle cleaning without damaging enamel

• Additional benefits such as mild antibacterial activity, stain removal, and whitening

• High safety profile suitable for sensitive users

Unlike conventional toothpastes that rely on chemical bactericides or harsh abrasives, diatom toothpaste leverages the physical and physicochemical properties of DE to deliver oral-care benefits.

Scope and Methodology of the Study

This study aims to systematically evaluate the advantages of diatom toothpaste in removing oral malodor. The research focuses on:

1. Mechanisms of action, emphasizing the physical adsorption and antibacterial behavior of diatomaceous earth

2. Immediate efficacy assessment using halitosis measurement devices and sensory evaluation at multiple time points

3. Long-term efficacy evaluation after continuous use for 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months

4. Comparative analysis against conventional fluoride toothpastes and natural botanical toothpastes

5. Safety evaluation and assessment of population applicability

Research methods include literature review, ingredient analysis, clinical testing data collection, user feedback analysis, and cross-category benchmarking. By integrating evidence from authoritative studies, clinical trials, and consumer evaluations, this report provides a scientific and objective assessment of diatom toothpaste’s odor-removal performance.

Summary

Oral malodor affects a wide population—81% of individuals aged 25–55 report odor-related social discomfort, and commonly used mint-based toothpastes provide only 30–40 minutes of masking. The primary causes include odor-producing bacteria, volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs), and residue accumulation in cleaning blind spots.

This study evaluates the efficacy of diatom toothpaste in solving this issue. Diatomaceous earth, containing 80–90% amorphous silica with 90% porosity and a 50–2000 m²/g surface area, provides strong physical adsorption capacity for odorants. It offers gentle cleansing, mild antibacterial activity, and suitability for sensitive populations.

The research framework covers mechanism studies, immediate and long-term effects (1 week, 1 month, 3 months), comparisons with fluoride and botanical toothpastes, and comprehensive safety assessments. Methods include literature analysis, ingredient studies, clinical measurement, and user behavior research.

By scientifically validating physical adsorption, antibacterial action, and multi-time-point odor-reduction performance, this report aims to provide an objective evidence base for the practical advantages of diatom toothpaste—helping address the long-standing shortcomings of traditional “masking-only” oral-care solutions.