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Being natural does not necessarily mean a product is better or safer. But in this case, a natural toothpaste is indeed a better decision.
Almost half of adults in the USA have some form of gum disease, courtesy of the harmful chemicals in conventional toothpastes.
Being a daily use product, the choice of toothpaste surely warrants careful research. And that’s exactly what we’re here for. Let's dive in to see why natural toothpastes are all the hype.
What Is a Natural Toothpaste?
A natural toothpaste refers to a toothpaste with ingredients derived from natural sources, such as plants, minerals, and essential oils. These toothpastes typically avoid artificial flavors, colors, sweeteners, and harsh chemicals commonly found in conventional toothpastes.
How Does Natural Toothpaste Differ From Regular Toothpaste?
Those termed regular toothpaste, which we have been using since our childhood, are made up of chemical-based ingredients. These ingredients include abrasives for cleaning the tooth surface, preservatives, surfactants, thickening agents, flavoring agents, and more.
These can be rougher and show bad effects in the long run.
Some of the harmful ingredients they contain:
Sodium Lauryl Sulphate(SLS)
The reported side effects of SLS include irritation or inflammation of the mucosa and dorsal part of the tongue, ulcerations, and toxic reactions in the oral cavity. Patients with recurrent mouth ulcers, on using SLS-free toothpaste reported to have reduced mouth ulcers. The duration and pain associated have also decreased. Further studies are being conducted to determine its effects on the oral and gastrointestinal systems.
Propylene Glycol
Used to increase the shelf life of toothpaste. In large quantities, propylene glycol can result in damage to the liver, heart, and central nervous system.
Parabens
Used to preserve the shelf life of regular toothpastes, can disrupt the functioning of the hormone estrogen and can affect the reproductive system.
Triclosan
Used as an antibacterial agent to reduce the inflammation of the gums. The use of triclosan in high doses can lead to decreased thyroid levels. In 2016, FDA banned triclosan from soaps due to its carcinogenic properties.
Polyethylene
It is a common type of plastic and non-biodegradable. These are added to give appealing color and texture to the toothpaste. It is not considered to be an active ingredient to maintain oral hygiene.
On the other hand, organic or plant-based ingredients are gentle on the teeth and gums having zero harmful impact in the long run. If you wish to go for a fluoridated one that is also natural, there is an American Dental Association (ADA) approved natural toothpaste with fluoride. You can check it here
Some natural toothpaste ingredients
The major ingredients in natural toothpaste include:
Xylitol
A natural sweetener, promotes saliva production and helps fight tooth decay.
Activated Charcoal
Mild abrasive action and removes surface stains from the teeth.
Essential Oils
Essential oils have antibacterial properties and prevent the spread of bacteria.
Coconut Oil
Coconut Oil is a source of healthy fatty acids, effective in plaque control and preventing gum diseases.
Hydroxyapatite
A mineral that is a part of human teeth and bones. This layer can prevent dental cavities and helps rebuild the lost layer. It is the main component of the enamel
Switching to a natural toothpaste offers several benefits for oral health and the environment. Natural toothpaste provides safe and gentle ingredients for oral cleaning while eliminating harsh chemicals that raise health concerns. This choice promotes great oral health, overall health, and eco-friendliness, aligning with sustainable and cruelty-free practices
What are the benefits of a Natural Toothpaste?
Maintains good oral health, without using toxic chemicals.
Effective cleaning properties with natural ingredients.
The safe and best option for kids.
Good for sensitive teeth and gums.
An excellent option for the family, because they don't have any harmful ingredients.
Curated list of Best Natural Toothpastes to select from:
NOBS toothpaste tablets offer a natural and safe alternative to traditional toothpaste.
Free from fluoride and harsh abrasives, these tablets promote a healthier smile. By harnessing the remineralizing power of nano-hydroxyapatite crystals, they provide a safe fluoride-free alternative for long-term tooth protection.
Organic mint is one of the natural ingredients that is added to guarantee long-lasting fresh breath.
Ingredients like Xylitol and Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate derived from Coconut Oil target harmful bacteria while preserving oral health.
Calcium Hydroxyapatite and Menthol restore enamel, while Zinc Citrate promotes gum health and long-lasting breath freshness.
The product is environmentally friendly, free of plastics and BPAs, and each tablet is perfectly dosed to reduce waste.
Packaged in an air-tight glass jar, NOBS eliminates plastic waste and the risk of exploding the tube.
Safe for pregnant women and the children in the family.
Tom's of Maine offers a range of naturally derived toothpaste options designed to promote oral health while minimizing the use of harsh chemicals. Their toothpaste lineup includes
Antiplaque & whitening toothpaste.
Whole care toothpaste.
Wicked Fresh Fluoride toothpaste.
Simply white toothpaste.
Key Features
Naturally derived ingredients with calcium carbonate and zinc for gentle abrasion
Hydrated silica removes plaque and tartar, resulting in whiter teeth
Toothpaste is vegan, gluten-free, paraben-free, BPA-free, and a certified B corporation, emphasizing their commitment to environmental and social responsibility.
Things you should know
Contains sodium lauryl sulfate and carrageenan, which may cause oral tissue irritation and digestive issues. Carrageenan is extracted from red seaweed and used as a stabilizer or thickening agent.
Alternative ingredients like gum Arabic, alginate, xanthan gum, and locust bean gum can be considered
Although considered food-grade, studies have linked carrageenan to digestive problems such as bloating, irritable bowel disease, food allergies, glucose intolerance, and even colon cancer.
Careful ingredient examination and healthcare professional advice recommended for the best toothpaste option
Specially designed for children aged 3 to 24 months.
Fruit-flavored for an enjoyable brushing experience.
Fluoride-free to avoid excessive fluoride intake.
Free from sulfates and harmful substances.
Safe to swallow, catering to young children's needs.
Non-toxic formulation for delicate oral tissues.
Fosters positive oral hygiene habits from an early age.
Focus on natural and safe ingredients, ensuring parents' confidence.
A Last Note:
Oral health is an important factor for maintaining overall health and the use of organic toothpaste ensures that your paste has safe natural ingredients. Natural toothpastes have proved to be effective for cleaning teeth and gums. The chemical ingredients in the conventional toothpastes,however good in action, can leave some bad effects.
Make a switch to a natural and environment-friendly toothpaste - safe for your kids and the family.
