Boka Ela Mint and Refresh Mint Whitening* Toothpaste are considered Non-Toxic to Humans**

*with regular brushing, helps remove surface stains
**when used as directed, based on a report by independent toxicology experts

What does “Non-Toxic” mean to Boka?

This toothpaste is non-toxic to consumers 6 years of age and older when used as directed. The ingredients in our product have undergone an expert assessment and have been measured against well-established standards for safety. Irritation, allergic, or idiosyncratic reactions might occur. While product misuse could give rise to health risks, as described below, the ingredients have been shown to be safe and non-toxic to humans when used as directed.

Introduction

Boka has carefully formulated its products to be safe and non-toxic to humans. Boka’s
proprietary fluoride-free formula includes Nano-hydroxyapatite (n-Ha)—a biomimetic
mineral form of the same ingredient that naturally makes up 97% of teeth material and
70% of dentin. With no artificial flavors or colors, Boka toothpastes are designed and
shown to contain only ingredients that, when used as directed, pose no toxicity concerns to humans.


Summary of Methodology

Each ingredient in Boka’s Ela Mint and Refresh Mint Whitening* Toothpaste have been deemed safe and non-toxic in an expert ingredient review. This substantiation is based on: (i) reports by Cosmetic
Ingredient Review (“CIR”)—an independent group charged with investigating the safety of ingredients found in cosmetics and personal care products; and (ii) for ingredients not supportable by CIR reports, Boka toothpaste’s estimated systemic exposure doses are compared with established safe use levels from authorities including the European Food Safety Authority, the World Health Organization, the National Academies of Sciences, and the Flavor and Extract Manufacturers Association. Safety was assessed for individuals aged 6 years and older. A conservative methodology was used: data from 6-year-old users were selected given their low body weight, and further, toxicity was assessed under a no- rinse use case assuming that users expel some portion of the toothpaste after brushing.


Potential Nature of Health Risks from Product Misuse

Boka cares deeply about the health and safety of its customers. All Boka products feature clear instructions for use and general warnings. Nonetheless, we realize that products can be misused and that accidents happen. Under these conditions, safety might be compromised and toxicity might occur, i.e., aforementioned claims do not apply. We cannot list all potential misuses, but following are a few examples of potential misuse and the nature of associated health risks:

  • Use of product by consumers with pre-existing allergies to ingredients or components thereof: Consumers might experience allergic reactions including perioral rashes, oral swelling, or difficulty breathing. Affected consumers should discontinue use immediately and seek medical attention.
  • Overconsumption: Ingesting more than the residual amount of toothpaste might cause gastrointestinal upset including nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Consult with a healthcare professional if more than the typical use amount is ingested.
  • Application to skin: Dermal exposure for longer than the typical brushing time might cause local irritation or sensitization. Rinse with plenty of water and seek medical attention if redness persists.
  • Eye exposure: Accidental exposure to eyes can cause a stinging or burning sensation, redness, watery eyes, blurred vision, or swelling of eyelids. Flush the eyes with water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention immediately, especially if symptoms persist or worsen.
  • Ingestion by infants: Infants who accidentally ingested toothpaste might experience excessive drooling, gastrointestinal upset including nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, or abdominal pain. Seek medical attention or call Poison Control immediately (in the U.S.: 1‑800‑222‑1222).
  • Ingestion by pets: Pets who ingested toothpaste might become restless or lethargic and show gastrointestinal distress such as vomiting or diarrhea. Dogs are particularly sensitive to xylitol, an ingredient in this product formulation that is harmless to humans. In dogs, however, it can cause seizures and liver failure, leading to death. Contact your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline immediately (in the U.S.: 1-888-426-4435 or 1-855- 764-7661).