Episode 5

full
Published on:

18th Aug 2025

05: TOOTHPASTE TRUTH BOMB: Is LIVFRESH Toothpaste Worth the Hype?

Is LivFresh toothpaste a true innovation in oral care—or just another case of marketing hype outpacing the science?

In this episode of Dental Formulator's Playbook, Dr. Rob and Tami deliver an unfiltered review of LivFresh toothpaste, breaking down its bold marketing claims, questionable science, and patent assertions. From flashy promises to missing fundamentals, they examine what’s real, what’s exaggerated, and what consumers need to know. While some ingredients show potential, Dr. Rob explains why the product’s hype doesn’t match its scientific backing — and offers guidance on how to evaluate oral care claims more critically.

Highlights

  • LivFresh toothpaste’s marketing claims — and why they raise red flags
  • A breakdown of the product’s key ingredients — and why most are common, not revolutionary
  • Review of the studies cited by LivFresh and why their lack of independence matters
  • Examination of the product’s patents and whether they truly support the claims
  • Concerns over the absence of fluoride and what that means for cavity prevention
  • Risks of enamel erosion and reports of negative user experiences
  • Discussion on why marketing hype often overshadows science in oral care products
  • Tips for spotting inflated claims and evaluating toothpaste efficacy
  • The importance of transparent research and credible scientific backing
  • Dr. Rob’s bottom line: skepticism is healthy when science doesn’t support the story

Connect with Dr. Rob (Robert L. Karlinsey, PhD)

🌐 Website: https://customdentalformulations.com/meet-dr-karlinsey

📄 Research Profile: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Robert-Karlinsey

Next Episode All Episodes Previous Episode

Listen for free

Show artwork for Dental Formulator's Playbook

About the Podcast

Dental Formulator's Playbook
The Dental Formulator’s Playbook is where science meets strategy in the world of oral health innovation. Hosted by Dr. Rob Karlinsey, a seasoned dental researcher and independent formulator, this podcast is your behind-the-scenes pass to what really goes into creating cutting-edge dental products.

Whether you're a dentist, a dental brand, or just someone curious about how toothpaste, rinses, and other oral care products are developed, you'll find practical insights and real-world takeaways in every episode. Dr. Karlinsey keeps it straightforward and engaging—no fluff, just clear, thoughtful explanations based on years of experience in the lab and the industry.

This show is all about helping dental professionals and product developers think differently, make better decisions, and stay ahead of the curve. If you care about science, results, and doing things the right way, you're in the right place.

About your host

Profile picture for Robert Karlinsey

Robert Karlinsey

Dr. Robert L. Karlinsey is a scientist and formulator with almost 20 years’ experience in dental research. He earned a BS in Physics (University of Scranton) and PhD in Chemical Physics (Indiana University), with postdoctoral work in physical chemistry (Indiana University). As a visiting assistant research professor at the Indiana University School of Dentistry, his research led to an impactful encounter with Dr. George Stookey, and shortly thereafter, the formation of Indiana Nanotech, LLC (now known as Custom Dental Formulations, LLC), of which he spearheaded all research and small-scale manufacturing efforts. Dr. Karlinsey is the inventor of Nanotech’s functionalized tricalcium phosphate systems, which continue to help generate over $100MM in global product sales for a major dental manufacturer. As Principal Investigator, his work has received significant funding through Federal (National Institutes of Health), State (Indiana and Texas), and industry grants and contracts. His research in patented calcium phosphate technologies continue to help generate over $100MM in global product sales. Previously, Dr. Karlinsey has served as Chief Scientific Officer at Therametric Technologies, Inc, and adjunct professor of chemistry at the University of Indianapolis.

Dr. Karlinsey addresses clients’ needs in preventive and cosmetic dentistry, including fluoride- and fluoride-free remineralization, antiplaque/gum health, whitening systems, and more. He is actively involved in clinical and laboratory research designs and performance-backed, customized oral care formulation solutions. And, whenever possible, he favors natural, nature-derived, and/or sustainably sourced ingredients