The orthodontist spoke about the dangers of using enzyme toothpastes

Popular enzyme toothpastes, positioned as a safe alternative to bleaching agents, can pose serious risks to enamel and gums if used improperly. Mariana Baragunova, a leading orthodontist at Eurokappa Clinic, told Izvestia about this on December 23.

According to her, the active enzymes in their composition act not only on soft plaque, but can also affect the hard structures of the tooth.

Baragunova explained that such pastes usually contain papain, bromelain and other enzymes that break down the protein structure of plaque. However, with regular use, they can thin the surface layer of the enamel, especially if it is initially weakened.

"The enzymes are working more aggressively than they seem. With frequent use, they can increase the sensitivity of teeth and provoke micro—damage to the enamel," the doctor noted.

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According to the expert, enzyme pastes often cause irritation of the soft tissues of the oral cavity. The mucous membrane and gums react to the active ingredients with redness, burning and discomfort. In people with periodontal diseases, these reactions may be more pronounced.

"With inflamed gums, the use of enzyme pastes often only exacerbates the situation — sensitivity increases, soreness and bleeding may appear," Baragunova explained.

The orthodontist also warned about allergic reactions. Enzymes of plant origin, such as papain, are strong allergens and can cause rashes, itching, swelling of the lips and irritation of the mucous membrane.

Additional risks arise in people with bruxism and increased tooth wear. Their enamel is already thinned, and the enzymatic components increase wear. It is dangerous to combine enzyme pastes with other bleaching or abrasive products — this greatly increases the risk of microcracks and erosions.

Baragunova stressed that such pastes are not intended for daily use.

"This is not a universal remedy for regular care. Enzyme pastes can only be used in courses and only after consulting a specialist. Otherwise, you can damage the enamel, which will be difficult to repair," she said.

Separately, the doctor noted that enzyme pastes are categorically unsuitable for children and adolescents. At a young age, enamel is still forming, and enzymes act on it much more aggressively. This can lead to early hypersensitivity and accelerated abrasion.

According to the doctor, the growing popularity of enzyme pastes is associated with active promotion on social networks and their positioning as a "natural" alternative to bleaching. But the term "natural" does not mean completely safe. Enzymes are active biological substances, and they should be treated as serious medical components.

The orthodontist urged patients to be attentive to the choice of oral hygiene products and not focus solely on trends and marketing statements.

"If you want to lighten your teeth or improve the quality of cleaning, there are safe professional methods. Experiments with active enzymes without medical supervision can have much more serious consequences than the initial aesthetic problems," Baragunova concluded.

Anastasia Kardakova, a periodontist, dentist and expert at REVIXAN, told Izvestia on November 18 about the health-threatening symptoms in her mouth. According to her, a thin plaque on the tongue in the morning is a variant of the norm: it appears due to dryness or leftover food. But if the plaque is dense, cheesy, accompanied by a burning sensation and an unpleasant odor, this may indicate a fungal infection (oral candidiasis).

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