Dental Formulator's Playbook

Dr. Rob Karlinsey
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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.

  1. 31: What Do Hops Have to Do with Toothpaste - The Brewing Science Behind a Surprising Oral Care Innovation with Dr. Rob Karlinsey and Tami

    4D AGO

    31: What Do Hops Have to Do with Toothpaste - The Brewing Science Behind a Surprising Oral Care Innovation with Dr. Rob Karlinsey and Tami

    What if one of the most promising antimicrobial ingredients for toothpaste came from the same plant used to preserve beer? In this episode of Dental Formulator’s Playbook, Dr. Rob Karlinsey and co-host Tami explore an unexpected crossover between brewing science and oral care innovation. What do hops, Miller Brewing, and Procter and Gamble have to do with toothpaste? Quite a lot, it turns out. This conversation breaks down how hop compounds suppress lactobacilli in beer, why that same concept appeared in toothpaste patents decades ago, and how modern patent strategy may shape the next generation of oral care products. Highlights and Takeaways Why hops are not just about bitterness, but also act as preservatives by suppressing lactobacilli and preventing beer spoilageThe surprising history of Miller Brewing filing an oral care patent in 1994, including toothpaste and mouthwash formulations that never reached marketHow hop cones are harvested and kiln dried to reduce moisture and spoilage riskWhat hops are made of, including cellulose, proteins, fats, resins, polyphenols, essential oils, and soluble fibersWhy the resins, not the essential oils or fibers, are the most relevant fraction for oral careHow hop resins are separated into soluble and insoluble fractions, and why the soluble fraction drives antimicrobial acid activityThe difference between hop alpha acids and hop beta acids, and why alpha acids matter most for bitterness and bacterial controlWhy extremely low concentrations can still be biologically active, with hop alpha acids discussed at levels as low as 0.01 percentHow patent claims work in practice and why claim language matters more than the length of the patentWhy Procter and Gamble’s patent strategy expands beyond hop acids into additional resin derived compoundsThe growing research interest in prenylated flavonoids and how their fat-affinity influences absorption and biological behaviorWhy antimicrobial testing often fails to translate clinically once ingredients are placed into real toothpaste formulations 📲 Connect with Dr. Rob (Robert L. Karlinsey, PhD) 🌐 Website: customdentalformulations.com Robert L. Karlinsey, PhD Google Scholar Profile

    47 min
  2. 30: Citric Acid Is Not What You Think - How Form Concentration and Context Change Everything with Dr. Rob Karlinsey and Tami

    FEB 9

    30: Citric Acid Is Not What You Think - How Form Concentration and Context Change Everything with Dr. Rob Karlinsey and Tami

    What if citric acid is not inherently good or bad, but misunderstood because formulation context is rarely explained? In this episode of Dental Formulator’s Playbook, Dr. Rob and co-host Tami take a deep, science-first look at one of the most widely used yet misunderstood ingredients in modern products: citric acid. Building on earlier episodes that examined citric acid’s role in foods and dental erosion, this conversation explores how citric acid is made, why it appears in everything from toothpaste to skincare to cleaners, and how its chemistry changes depending on form, concentration, and context. Dr. Rob explains the critical distinction between citric acid and citrate, why hydration state matters for formulators, and how citric acid functions as a buffer, chelator, preservative, and flavor modifier. The discussion traces citric acid’s industrial production back to early fermentation research, its historical link to penicillin scale-up through Pfizer, and its foundational role in cellular energy via the Krebs (citric acid) cycle. The episode also examines citric acid’s use in cosmetics as an alpha hydroxy acid, in household cleaners, in laboratory sample preservation, and in encapsulated food applications. Rather than framing citric acid as “good” or “bad,” this episode emphasizes understanding concentration, buffering, formulation design, and intended use to make informed decisions across oral care, food, skincare, and consumer products. Key Topics Covered The difference between citric acid and citrate in aqueous systemsWhy citric acid and sodium citrate behave the same once dissolved in waterHydration states of raw materials (anhydrous, monohydrate, dihydrate) and why they matter for formulation accuracyHow citric acid functions as a buffer in pharmaceuticals and oral care productsWhy citric acid is considered a natural ingredient despite industrial-scale productionFermentation-based production of citric acid using Aspergillus nigerThe historical link between citric acid scale-up and penicillin mass productionPfizer’s role in advancing fermentation technology during World War IIJames Currie’s 1917 research and its lasting impact on microbial production methodsWhy fermentation is still the dominant method for producing citric acid todayCitric acid’s role in metabolism through the Krebs (citric acid) cycleAlpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and citric acid’s role in skincare formulationsConcentration differences between dental products, foods, cosmetics, and cleanersWhy buffering citric acid is critical in oral care and pharmaceutical productsCitric acid use in household cleaners, including modern low-toxicity formulationsspan class="ql-ui"...

    48 min
  3. 29: Healthy Drinks Can Still Harm Teeth - The Hidden Acid and Timing Factors Dentistry Misses with Dr. Rob Karlinsey and Tami

    FEB 2

    29: Healthy Drinks Can Still Harm Teeth - The Hidden Acid and Timing Factors Dentistry Misses with Dr. Rob Karlinsey and Tami

    What if some of your most “healthy” choices for gut health are quietly eroding your teeth? In this episode of Dental Formulator’s Playbook, Dr. Rob and co-host Tami build on Episodes 26 and 27 to explain why pH alone does not tell the full story. They explore fermented dairy (yogurt, buttermilk, fermented milks), kombucha, and prebiotic cultures like lactobacilli, plus how timing, sipping habits, and formulation choices can increase risks for erosion and caries. The conversation also expands into restorative dentistry, including a 2024 study comparing two “compomer” materials (including the sparkly kid-friendly option) and how different liquids can change surface roughness over time. Key Topics Covered Why the type of acid can predict damage better than pH aloneFermented dairy basics: common pH range (about 4.0 to 4.5) and why buffering can be misleadingHow lactobacilli tie into oral health: caries risk, acid production (lactic and sometimes acetic acid)Why some “oral probiotic” mints can be a tradeoff, especially depending on your physiologyKombucha pH (about 2.5 to 3.5) and why sipping over time can raise erosion riskTiming matters: why yogurt or acidic drinks right before bed can be risky during low-saliva conditionsA children’s diet study reference: reported erosion rates tied to yogurt, orange juice, and carbonated drinksA look at compomers (composite + glass ionomer hybrids): what they are and how they are used clinicallyHow exposure to cola, juice, water, and milk affected restoration surface roughness in a 2024 paperWhy roughness matters: plaque traps, periodontal risk, and even tooth appearance (light reflection) Highlights and Takeaways “Healthy” does not always mean tooth-friendly. Gut benefits and enamel risks can coexist.Sipping style and duration can matter as much as the drink itself. The longer acids linger, the higher the risk.Fermented dairy can be well-buffered yet still contribute to enamel softening, especially with frequent exposure and poor timing.Lactobacilli and its role as part of the caries picture, especially alongside streptococci, depending on the model and context.Restorations have their own vulnerabilities. Some materials can roughen quickly in acidic liquids, while others may develop deposits over time.A rough surface is not just cosmetic. It can create plaque traps and raise oral health...

    52 min
  4. 28: Published Does Not Mean Proven - The Shocking Truth About Scientific Corrections with Dr. Rob Karlinsey

    JAN 26

    28: Published Does Not Mean Proven - The Shocking Truth About Scientific Corrections with Dr. Rob Karlinsey

    What if some of the research shaping everyday products is quietly flawed, and the system designed to correct it often chooses not to? In this episode of Dental Formulator’s Playbook, Dr. Rob and co-host Tami take a deep, unfiltered look at scientific ethics and research accountability. Prompted by recent survey data and real-world case studies, the conversation explores how flawed or falsified research can enter the scientific record and why it so often remains there uncorrected. Rather than focusing on isolated mistakes, this episode examines systemic behaviors. These include informal admissions, delayed accountability, and the reluctance to issue corrections or retractions even when problems are known. From high-profile superconductivity claims to modern AI-driven research, Dr. Rob explains why transparency, replication, and proper testing models are essential, especially when scientific papers are used to justify claims in oral care products and other consumer-facing technologies. This discussion challenges listeners to think more critically about what “published” really means and how to evaluate research beyond headlines and abstracts. Key Topics Covered Findings from a published survey examining how often chemists knowingly falsify information in scientific papersWhat falsification can look like beyond simple errors, including selective data presentation and procedural shortcutsWhy many researchers avoid formal corrections and how those decisions are commonly rationalizedInformal and non-public ways errors are addressed instead of correcting the scientific recordHow scrutiny can occur outside traditional journals through independent review and public forumsA detailed case study involving high-profile superconductivity claims and failed replication attemptsWhy highly publicized fields like AI attract attention, while similar ethics risks exist across all areas of scienceHow Dr. Rob evaluates whether research is trustworthy, relevant, and clinically meaningfulThe role of appropriate models, controls, and independent replication in supporting oral care product claims Highlights and Takeaways Published does not mean proven. Peer-reviewed publication alone is not a guarantee of accuracy or reliability.The scientific record often remains uncorrected. Many known issues are never formally addressed through corrections or retractions.Replication is essential. When independent groups cannot reproduce results, confidence in those findings should decrease.Models and controls matter. Meaningful positive and negative controls are critical for interpreting results responsibly.Bias influences what gets promoted. Financial incentives, career pressure, and...

    44 min
  5. 27: It’s Not Just the pH - The Shocking Way Acid Type Changes Enamel Damage with Dr. Rob Karlinsey

    JAN 19

    27: It’s Not Just the pH - The Shocking Way Acid Type Changes Enamel Damage with Dr. Rob Karlinsey

    What if the real risk to your enamel isn’t just how acidic a drink is, but the specific acids hidden inside it that change how your teeth dissolve? In this episode of Dental Formulator’s Playbook, Dr. Rob and Tami break down how acidic drinks impact enamel demineralization, and why the “type of acid” matters, not just pH. They start with a surprising discussion on Pedialyte, explaining how a low pH plus citric acid and citrate salts can raise erosion risk, especially when calcium is absent. Then they compare major sodas and flavored waters, highlighting how acids like phosphoric acid, citric acid, and benzoic acid show up across brands for both preservation and taste. The episode closes with practical ways to reduce damage, plus a few “safer” sparkling water picks based on pH. Highlights Why pH below 5.5 increases demineralization risk (and how fluoride changes resistance)The surprising enamel risk with Pedialyte (especially without calcium)Coke vs. Pepsi: acid profiles and why “cola acid” is not always the sameWhy benzoic acid shows up in drinks for more than preservationA practical enamel-saving approach for acidic drinks when you are sick, dehydrated, or dry-mouthedFlavored waters: why “it’s just water” can still be a problemWhich sparkling waters land closer to “gentler” pH territory Practical Takeaways Avoid brushing immediately after acidic drinks. Wait at least 30 minutes.If you must use acidic electrolyte drinks, consider damage control strategies discussed in the episode (timing, fluoride support, and calcium buffers).Flavored waters often contain citric acid and may sit below enamel-safe pH ranges.Plain sparkling waters can vary. Some test closer to the safer side, but citrus flavors tend to drop pH. 📲 Connect with Dr. Rob (Robert L. Karlinsey, PhD) 🌐 Website: customdentalformulations.com Robert L. Karlinsey, PhD Google Scholar Profile

    41 min
  6. 26: Not All Acids Are Equal - The Shocking Reason Oranges Damage Teeth More Than Apples with Dr. Rob Karlinsey

    JAN 12

    26: Not All Acids Are Equal - The Shocking Reason Oranges Damage Teeth More Than Apples with Dr. Rob Karlinsey

    What if the real danger to your teeth isn’t that fruit is acidic, but that different fruit acids strip enamel in very different ways most people never learn about? In this episode of Dental Formulator’s Playbook, Dr. Rob and Tami break down the chemistry behind fruit acids and their real impact on dental erosion. While fruits are often grouped together as “acidic,” the hosts explain why citric acid, malic acid, and tartaric acid behave very differently once they interact with enamel, saliva, and calcium. Using clear chemistry explanations and published research, the conversation explores why oranges pose a higher erosion risk than apples, how calcium binding changes as pH shifts in the mouth, and why certain acids are routinely used in dental erosion testing models. The episode also covers practical, evidence-based strategies to reduce acid damage without avoiding healthy foods altogether. 🔍 Episode Highlights Why acidic foods are not equally damaging to teethThe difference between dental erosion and dental cariesCitric acid vs malic acid vs tartaric acid explained simplyHow calcium binding strength determines erosion riskWhy citric acid is the standard acid used in erosion research modelsHow pH shifts in the mouth amplify mineral lossThe role of EDTA and why its chelation strength mattersWhy calcium-fortified beverages reduce enamel damageHow wine and sports drinks contribute to dental erosionThe science behind brushing timing after acidic exposure 🧪 Key Takeaways Different fruits expose teeth to different acids, which vary in erosive potentialApples primarily contain malic acid, which has lower calcium-binding strengthOranges primarily contain citric acid, which is more erosive due to stronger calcium bindingGrapes primarily contain tartaric acid, which behaves more similarly to citric acid than malic acidCitric acid contains three carboxylic acid groups, allowing it to bind calcium more aggressively at oral pHStronger calcium binding increases enamel mineral loss compared to acids with fewer binding sitesEDTA binds calcium far more strongly than fruit acids and must be carefully managed in dental formulationsCitrus fruits and juices pose a higher erosion risk than applesCalcium-rich foods and beverages can act as sacrificial calcium to reduce enamel damageCalcium-fortified...

    39 min
  7. 25: Read the Label, Not the Hype - The Real Science Behind Enzymatic Dog Toothpaste with Dr. Rob Karlinsey

    JAN 5

    25: Read the Label, Not the Hype - The Real Science Behind Enzymatic Dog Toothpaste with Dr. Rob Karlinsey

    What happens when a best-selling pet oral care product is examined ingredient by ingredient instead of through marketing claims? In this episode of Dental Formulator’s Playbook, Dr. Rob and Tami take a close, evidence-based look at Vet’s Best Enzymatic Dog Toothpaste, a product with tens of thousands of reviews and strong consumer trust. The discussion focuses on formulation transparency, ingredient safety, and whether the product’s claims align with canine oral biology and real formulation science. Dr. Rob breaks down each ingredient, including enzymes, glycerin, aloe, and neem oil, and explains why popularity and sales volume are not substitutes for safety data or biological relevance. Special attention is given to the quiet removal of neem oil from marketing language while it remains in the ingredient list, raising concerns about transparency rather than reformulation. This episode encourages pet owners to read labels carefully, question buzzwords like “enzymatic” and “natural,” and prioritize evidence-based formulations over trends. 🔍 Highlights Why dogs and cats do not develop dental caries like humansThe difference between human and veterinary oral care needsWhat glucose oxidase enzymes actually do and why they may not benefit petsConcerns around neem oil remaining in the formula despite removal from marketing claimsPotential gastrointestinal risks associated with neem oil and aloeHow glycerin-heavy, water-free formulations affect brushing performanceWhy “safe to swallow” claims deserve extra scrutinyThe risks of equating high sales and positive reviews with product safetyHow misleading marketing language can obscure formulation realityThe importance of ingredient transparency in veterinary oral care 💡 Key Takeaways Dogs do not get cavities, so caries-focused enzymes offer limited benefitIngredient transparency matters more than marketing languageNeem oil is a potent antimicrobial not intended for ingestionRemoving claims without removing ingredients reduces consumer trust“Natural” does not automatically mean safe for petsSales volume and reviews are not safety indicatorsEvidence-based formulation should guide pet oral care decisions 📲 Connect with Dr. Rob (Robert L. Karlinsey, PhD) 🌐 Website: customdentalformulations.com 📄 Research Profile:a...

    45 min
  8. 24: Vitamin D Won’t Save Your Teeth – The Shocking Truth About Cavities and Oral Health with Dr. Rob Karlinsey

    12/29/2025

    24: Vitamin D Won’t Save Your Teeth – The Shocking Truth About Cavities and Oral Health with Dr. Rob Karlinsey

    What if vitamin D supports your oral health in powerful ways, but not in the cavity preventing role social media claims it does? In this episode of Dental Formulator’s Playbook, Dr. Rob and Tami take a deep, evidence-based look at vitamin D and its relationship to oral health. They examine historical research, modern studies, and emerging science to clarify what vitamin D can and cannot do for teeth and gums. While vitamin D is often promoted online as a cavity-preventing solution, the hosts explain why fluoride remains the gold standard for caries prevention and where vitamin D actually fits into a smart, holistic oral care strategy. Rather than acting directly on enamel, vitamin D influences oral health through systemic pathways, including immune regulation, salivary protein expression, and periodontal tissue support. This episode separates fact from hype and offers practical guidance grounded in real science. 🔍 Highlights Why vitamin D does not directly prevent dental cariesThe difference between systemic support and topical protectionHow vitamin D influences the oral proteome and salivary proteinsThe role of antimicrobial peptides such as cathelicidin (LL-37) in oral immunityHistorical vitamin D research and how early findings were often misinterpretedWhy fluoride remains essential for enamel protection and remineralizationVitamin D’s documented benefits for gingival health and periodontal stabilityThe importance of distinguishing correlation from causation in nutrition researchHow saliva flow and protein composition affect oral defense mechanismsWhere vitamin D fits into a comprehensive, evidence-based oral care approach 💡 Key Takeaways Supplementing with Vitamin D benefits the oral environment in terms of gingival and periodontal health, however there is no clear association in preventing dental caries (i.e., not by strengthening enamel or preventing cavities)Fluoride is still the most effective and only approved anti-caries agentAdequate vitamin D levels improve gum health, immune response, and salivary protein functionSalivary proteins play a critical role in protecting teeth and soft tissuesNutrition matters, but it cannot replace proper topical oral careA holistic approach combines fluoride, good hygiene, diet, and systemic health 📲 Connect with Dr. Rob (Robert L. Karlinsey, PhD) 🌐 Website:...

    38 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Rob Karlinsey
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    31
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Dr. Rob Karlinsey
  • Show Website
    Dental Formulator's Playbook