RDA, Explained: The One Number That Keeps Whitening Gentle
Written by CareOnDaily Research Team

“Scrub harder and it’ll get whiter.” If only. Abrasive overkill can roughen enamel so stains stick faster. The standard way dentists compare “scrub strength” is RDA—Relative Dentin Abrasivity. To qualify for the ADA Seal, a product must keep RDA ≤ 250. That doesn’t mean 60 is “twice as safe” as 120; it means both sit within accepted long-term use when you brush properly.
Low Abrasion Doesn’t Mean Low Results
RDA gauges abrasive potential, not whitening power. Results depend on smart chemistry: stain removal + optical brightening + remineralizing support. That’s why hydroxyapatite tooth powder—paired with low RDA—is a go-to for enamel-safe whitening.
A Simple Checklist for Choosing Whitening Tooth Powder
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Check RDA (≤ 250 is the practical ceiling for ADA-Seal products).
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Look for repair-forward actives like hydroxyapatite to support remineralizing while brightening.
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Technique matters: soft bristles, light pressure, 2 minutes.
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Skip harsh fads (daily charcoal scrubs, acid mixes). JADA reviews and expert commentary have raised concerns about abrasivity and lack of proven benefit.
Want brightening without second-guessing your enamel? Try CareOnDaily n-HA Whitening Tooth Powder—built around low abrasivity and repair. https://careondaily.com/products/hydroxyapatite-tooth-powder-set
If your toothbrush could talk, would it ask for more grit—or a smarter formula?
“At CareOnDaily, we believe in Smart Formulas that deliver visible results without overpaying.”