Brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day is the standard advice we all hear, and many of us follow it without question. But have you ever really looked at the ingredients in your toothpaste? You might be surprised to learn that many common toothpastes on the market today contain harmful ingredients that could damage your health. Here are the top three reasons to ditch your toothpaste and switch to a natural tooth powder.
Dangerous Ingredient #1 – Fluoride
Fluoride is a controversial topic. For decades, it has been used in toothpastes and added to the public water supply for the stated purpose of preventing tooth decay. However, multiple studies have linked fluoride to a variety of health issues, including dental fluorosis (staining or “mottling” of the teeth), attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and reduced IQ1. Some studies have even suggested a connection between fluoride exposure and chronic joint pain, osteoarthritis, and thyroid disorders.
Despite these concerns, we are still encouraged to use fluoride toothpaste daily and expose ourselves to this potentially harmful mineral. Why? Some scientists have pointed to flawed safety studies as the reason for fluoride’s continued usage and promotion by the dental industry.
Dangerous Ingredient #2 – Triclosan
This harmful chemical is so dangerous that the FDA has banned it from use in antibacterial soaps, yet it remains in many toothpastes found at your local drugstore2. Triclosan is an endocrine disruptor, which means that it can throw your hormones dangerously out of balance. It has also been linked to antibiotic resistance, immune system damage, and even cancer3.
The government may have determined that triclosan is not safe to rub into your skin, but it doesn’t seem to mind that you’re brushing your teeth with it and possibly swallowing it daily.
Dangerous Ingredient #3 – Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
SLS is responsible for the “lather effect” you see when using toothpaste and soaps. However, this frothy foam is not a sign of cleanliness but rather a sign that you’re using a dangerous chemical. SLS is a tissue and gum irritant that can cause mouth sores and has been found to be contaminated with trace amounts of a carcinogen called dioxane4.
A Safer Alternative: Natural Tooth Powder
With the dangerous side effects of these chemicals in mind, it’s essential to find a toothpaste alternative that provides the same or better level of cleanliness without the risks. One such option is a natural tooth powder made with bentonite clay5.
Bentonite clay is a fantastic ingredient for oral health for several reasons. It is soft enough to prevent damage to your tooth enamel and contains trace minerals that can help re-mineralize the surface of your teeth, keeping them strong. Bentonite also binds to bacteria and other unhealthy substances in your mouth, helping to prevent cavity formation.
You can find natural tooth powders containing bentonite clay for sale online or make your own using this simple recipe:
- 2 tbsp. Baking Soda
- 2 tbsp. Bentonite Clay
- 1/2 tbsp. Sea Salt or Himalayan Pink Salt
- 10 drops therapeutic grade essential oil (peppermint, spearmint, clove, or any other oil of your choice, including coconut oil)
Mix all ingredients together in a glass bowl, or place in a small glass jar and shake until combined. To use, dip your dry toothbrush into the powder and start brushing.
Not only is this tooth powder easy and inexpensive to make, but it also lasts much longer than traditional toothpaste—saving you money while providing superior oral health. So, say goodbye to the toxic ingredients hiding in your toothpaste and embrace the natural power of bentonite clay instead.
