Effectiveness of Diatomaceous Earth in Eliminating Different Types of Oral Odors | Qian Cao Tang Toothpaste

1. Removal of Food Residue Odor

Food residue odor is one of the most common types of oral malodor, primarily caused by the decomposition of leftover food particles in the mouth, releasing unpleasant volatile compounds. Diatomaceous earth (DE) has shown remarkable efficiency in eliminating this type of odor.

Studies have demonstrated that toothpaste containing DE exhibits a strong adsorption capacity for odor-causing substances such as indole and dimethyl sulfide. Both electronic nose analysis and UV–visible spectrophotometry confirmed that toothpaste formulated with DE of various particle sizes effectively adsorbs these compounds, with 800-mesh DE showing the most significant deodorizing effect against indole and dimethyl sulfide.

In an in vitro simulation of the oral environment, researchers found that toothpaste containing more than 8% DE rapidly increased the adsorption of these volatile compounds, effectively eliminating food-related odors.

2. Removal of Morning Breath

Morning breath occurs due to reduced oral activity and saliva secretion during sleep, allowing bacteria to proliferate and produce volatile sulfur compounds. DE has proven effective in improving this type of oral malodor as well.

The porous structure of DE efficiently adsorbs odor molecules, while its gentle abrasiveness helps remove bacteria and food debris from teeth and mucosal surfaces, thereby reducing odor formation at the source. Studies found that DE-enriched toothpaste not only provides instant odor removal but also forms a thin protective film in the mouth, inhibiting bacterial growth and preventing the recurrence of morning breath.

Furthermore, DE’s adsorption–controlled release property enables it to retain and gradually release active ingredients, extending the freshness effect after brushing—particularly beneficial for preventing morning breath.

3. Removal of Smoking-Related Odor

Smoking-induced oral odor is among the most persistent types, mainly caused by volatile organic compounds and tar released during tobacco combustion. DE has also demonstrated significant efficacy in tackling this odor.

Research indicates that DE can effectively adsorb tobacco-related volatile organic compounds such as benzene and pyridine, as well as tar—the primary contributors to smoking-related malodor. Experimental data show that toothpaste containing DE outperforms regular toothpaste in removing smoke stains and odors.

The porous structure of DE also penetrates microscopic crevices and pits on tooth surfaces, thoroughly removing tobacco residues and addressing the root cause of smoker’s breath. One study found that DE-based toothpaste significantly reduced volatile sulfur compound concentrations in the mouths of smokers, noticeably improving oral freshness.

4. Removal of Other Types of Oral Odor

Beyond the major types above, DE can also alleviate other forms of oral malodor:

• Odor from Oral Diseases: DE absorbs foul compounds from inflamed areas and helps cleanse and protect oral mucosa, promoting healing and reducing odor formation.

• Odor from Dry Mouth: DE’s hygroscopic nature helps maintain oral moisture, reducing dryness-related odors.

• Odor from Systemic Diseases: Although these odors mainly require treatment of the underlying condition, DE’s adsorption capacity can help mitigate odor symptoms, improving patient comfort and quality of life.

Conclusion

Through comprehensive analysis, the deodorizing advantages of Diatomaceous Earth Toothpaste can be summarized as follows:

• Highly effective against multiple odor sources: DE efficiently removes food-related odors (particularly indole and dimethyl sulfide) at 800 mesh and concentrations above 8%.

• Long-lasting freshness: It absorbs odor compounds, inhibits bacterial growth, and gradually releases active ingredients to maintain a fresh mouthfeel.

• Superior stain and odor removal for smokers: DE adsorbs tobacco-related compounds and removes tar stains more effectively than regular toothpaste.

• Additional benefits: DE improves oral odors caused by inflammation, dryness, or systemic conditions, offering broad oral deodorization and health support.