Episode 8

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Published on:

8th Sep 2025

08: WHITER TEETH WITHOUT DAMAGE? Not All Whitening Toothpastes Are Equal

Is your whitening toothpaste actually brightening your smile—or quietly wearing down your enamel?

In this episode of Dental Formulator’s Playbook, Dr. Rob and Tami break down the science behind peroxide-based whitening toothpastes, diving into how hydrogen peroxide actually works to lift stains from teeth. Using popular products like Colgate Optic White Pro Series as examples, they explain the chemistry of stain removal, the role of pH, and how abrasiveness (measured by RDA) affects both whitening power and sensitivity. The conversation also explores the latest research on peroxide penetration, revealing why formulation is key to safety and results — and why not all whitening toothpastes are created equal.

🔥 Highlights 

↠ How hydrogen peroxide lifts stains and brightens teeth

↠ The science of stain formation and how toothpaste ingredients address it

↠ Why pH levels matter for whitening efficacy and enamel safety

↠ Understanding RDA (Relative Dentin Abrasivity) — and its role in whitening

↠ The balance between effective whitening and avoiding tooth sensitivity

↠ Breakdown of key ingredients in products like Colgate Optic White Pro Series

↠ Recent research on peroxide penetration and how deeply whitening agents can go

↠ Why formulation factors (abrasives, humectants, stabilizers) determine performance

↠ Safety considerations when using peroxide-based toothpastes daily

↠ What consumers should look for when choosing a whitening toothpasteConnect with Dr. Rob (Robert L. Karlinsey, PhD)

Link and Resources:

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

 📄 Research Profile: ResearchGate – Robert Karlinsey

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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

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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