Toothpaste Chemicals: Do You Know What You’re Brushing With?

You listen to your dentist by brushing at least twice a day, but is the toothpaste you’re using doing you harm? Toothpaste once contained a harmful chemical called triclosan due to its interaction with hormones. While it’s long gone, there are still other toothpaste chemicals you should be on the lookout for.

Surfactants

In a nutshell, this is the foaming agent used in many commercially-produced soaps. It gives you that rich lather but it also exposes you to SLS/SLES. Some brands tout a coconut-derived substitute, but be careful with those too as they are not safe to swallow. You definitely don’t need soap in your toothpaste so go check your labels now.

Preservatives 

Likely, you know that parabens are bad news. Sodium benzoate is often called the safer alternative to parabens. However, it’s really not that safe. Researchers have found links to cancer but are still exploring it, especially when it’s combined with vitamins C and E. This creates benzene which is a very-known carcinogen. Instead, you should look for citric acid as a natural alternative, though beware of GMO formulations.

Carrageenan

You’d think because carrageenan comes from seaweed that it would be safe. It’s found in some toothpastes to help improve texture and keep water content down. But this ingredient could cause intestinal inflammation and tumors in the colon when ingested. Adults are much less likely to have this problem, however children are at extreme risk because they tend to swallow toothpaste more. Additionally, it does nothing for gum health so it isn’t necessary at all.

Glycerin

In skincare, glycerin adds hydration but in toothpaste, all it does is create a palatable texture. Derived from vegetable oils, it’s slippery but that feeling coats your teeth and prevents the natural way of remineralization. It attracts plaque too and is often made from GMO ingredients. Yes, it’s natural, but it is not a productive ingredient for your oral health.

Hydrated Silica

And finally, one of the most troublesome toothpaste chemicals out there is hydrated silica. It is used to help remove stains and debris. It’s an abrasive component that comes from sand. When you use it regularly, it can scratch your teeth. Over time, this damages the enamel and can prevent your natural process of remineralization. It upsets the balance of your mouth’s acidity which isn’t a good thing. Instead, look for toothpastes or all-natural tooth oils that gently polish your teeth without harming the enamel.

The less chemicals you use in your oral hygiene routine, not to mention overall in all areas of your life, the healthier you will be. Ditch the chemicals and look for natural options, though do remember that even natural things like glycerin aren’t helpful for healthy teeth. By being informed, you can make a better decision for your best oral care!

Looking for a 100% all-natural liquid tooth oil and mouth rinse? Check out OraMD Original Strength and OraMD Extra Strength. Subscribe to our Trusted Health Club newsletter for more information about natural living tips, natural health, oral health and skincare. If you are looking for more health resources make sure to check out the Trusted Health Resources list. 

Written By:

Jennifer Raskin is a freelance writer, wife and mom that loves cold weather despite her location in Florida, cooking, reading, watching ‘80s movies, weight-lifting, and wine tasting.

Reviewed By:

Founder Ray Spotts has a passion for all things natural and has made a life study of nature as it relates to health and well-being. Ray became a forerunner bringing products to market that are extraordinarily effective and free from potentially harmful chemicals and additives. For this reason Ray formed Trusted Health Products, a company you can trust for clean, effective, and healthy products. Ray is an organic gardener, likes fishing, hiking, and teaching and mentoring people to start new businesses. You can get his book for free, “How To Succeed In Business Based On God’s Word,” at www.rayspotts.com. 

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