arginine + fluoride

Arginine-containing toothpaste is a therapeutic oral care formulation developed by Colgate-Palmolive for the prevention and treatment of dental plaque, caries, and dentinal hypersensitivity. The active technology, often referred to as Pro-Argin, utilizes the amino acid arginine as a prebiotic substrate to modulate the oral microbiome. Arginolytic bacteria within the dental plaque biofilm metabolize arginine via the arginine deiminase pathway, producing ammonia and other basic species that raise the local pH. This neutralization of sugar-derived acids prevents enamel demineralization and promotes remineralization. When combined with fluoride, the formulation enhances the structural integrity of hydroxyapatite. Specific versions, such as Colgate Total, also incorporate zinc to provide antibacterial benefits and reduce plaque accumulation and gingivitis.

Brand names

Colgate TotalColgate Sensitive Pro-ReliefColgate Maximum Cavity Protection plus Sugar Acid NeutralizerTom's of Maine Superior Sensitivity Relief

Other names

Pro-ArginDual Zinc plus Argininearginine-containing toothpaste