Safe Swaps For Oral Health
Like many things in our lives that we haven’t thought twice about — it might be worth taking a look at what’s inside the products you’re using to keep your mouth healthy so you can potentially make some better choices. For example, popular toothpaste brands – even those that claim to be natural, may contain harmful ingredients that have been linked to endocrine disruption, carcinogens, and inflammatory agents. Four popular ingredients in toothpaste to avoid are fluoride, titanium dioxide, SLS, and Carrageenan.
Non-Toxic Toothpaste, Mouthwash, and More.
With so many oral care options and false marketing claims, it can be challenging to navigate your way around the toothpaste aisle. Here are some of Dr. G’s recommended tips for finding the best toothpaste, mouthwash, and more!
- Stay clear of toothpaste and mouthwash formulas with artificial colors, flavors, and sweeteners.
- Part ways with triclosan. In case you haven\’t heard, this antibacterial compound is banned in soaps but not in toothpaste.
- Say goodbye to propylene glycol. This mineral, also used in antifreeze, should play no role in an individual’s journey towards maximizing their oral health.
- It’s best to avoid anything artificial at all costs, like preservatives such as parabens.
- Always go for an alcohol-free mouthwash. Mouthwash containing alcohol can be very drying and tend to irritate your soft tissues.
Our favorite toothpaste
Risewell (helps remineralize enamel and areas of decay)
Periopaste toothpaste (for gum disease) https://www.just4teeth.com/PerioPaste-Organic-Toothpaste-4oz-Tube-by-Bio-Pro
Theives Young Living Brand
Our Favorite Mouthwash
Dental Herb Company https://www.dentalherb.com/products/tooth-and-gums-tonic/
Perioclear https://www.just4teeth.com/PerioClear-Alcohol-Free-Mouthwash-16-oz.-Bio-Pro
Trilogy https://triologycare.com/restoring-rinse (based on your bacteria)
Whiten Without Chemicals
Regular brushing and flossing help keep your teeth clean and healthy, but you may want to brighten your smile. Teeth whitening and bleaching chemicals in traditional products can damage your enamel, irritate your gums, and cause increased tooth sensitivity and uneven color. Instead, opt for a better alternative with natural ingredients to help polish those pearly whites! Here are three agents to look for in teeth whitening solutions:
- Coconut oil contains lauric acid, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties that assist in getting rid of plaque and bacteria; both significant contributors to yellow teeth.
- Activated charcoal is a highly porous substance that binds toxins and absorbs tannins (pigments found in various food and drink) while removing stains and whitening teeth in the process.
- Food-grade hydrogen peroxide gently penetrates your tooth’s enamel, altering the tooth’s color beyond its natural shade by affecting the dentin layer of your teeth.
Dental Floss
Who knew dental floss could be unsafe? Many of the traditional floss contains PFAS (the stuff used in Teflon to make pans non-stick, which we now know to avoid because PFAS has been linked to increased risk of health issues like cancer and thyroid issues) help them glide easily between your teeth. There are several non-toxic floss options available now that don’t include PFAS.
Our Favorite Dental Floss
Dr. Tungs https://drtungs.com/products/92-smart-floss.html (it’s BPA free, removes upward of 55% more plaque)
And don’t forget you can try an oral/water irrigator
Moving toward a healthier place with products and habits can be a daunting task, and it does not happen overnight. A good mindset to have is to know that you don’t have to change everything all at once, and instead, it can be helpful to replace products as you naturally run out of them with safer options. Doing your research before those products run out makes the transition even more effortless, and provides the individual with substantiated confidence surrounding their new oral health routine.
Ready To Take Control Of Your Health?
If you’re due (or past due) for an oral health assessment, or if you have questions about your oral health or integrative holistic dentistry, Holistic Dental Center New Jersey can help. Give us a call at (973) 718-5104 or contact us online for more information.
