by Lissie Lyles |
The mouth is the gateway to the immune system. Therefore, impeccable care of the teeth and gums is crucial to life-long health. With countless options available, many of which are cloaked in lofty health claims, what do you need to know about selecting the best toothpaste for you?
Here is a list of ingredients from three popular toothpaste products, including the pro’s and con’s of each product.
Colgate Total Toothpaste:
While this product is approved by the American Dental association and brags about its fluoride and antibacterial content, there are many reasons to reconsider the safety of this product. Debra Lynn Dadd says in her book, Home Safe Home, “fluoride toothpastes may contain ammonia, ethanol, artificial colors and flavors, formaldehyde, mineral oil, sugar, and carcinogenic polyvinylpyrrolidone plastic (PVP), the same plastic resin used in hairspray.” If that did not provide enough information for pause, consider this:
Triclosan: Antibacterial ingredient potentially contaminated with chemicals linked to cancer.
Sodium Saccharin: The FDA requires a warning on food products and chewing gums which contain this ingredient. It states that it has been shown to cause cancer in animal tests. For some reason the warning is not required on toothpaste.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate: A known skin irritant and carcinogen. It is often used as an irritant in cosmetic testing to measure the soothing properties of other ingredients. It is commercially used in floor cleaners and engine degreasers.
Titanium Dioxide: Classified as an occupational carcinogen.
Tom’s of Maine Toothpaste:
This formerly independently owned cosmetic company is now owned by Colgate Palmolive. Though it claims to be a natural toothpaste product, it also contains Sodium Lauryl Sulfate. It contains Sodium Fluoride as well, which has been classified as toxic by both inhalation and ingestion. In high doses, studies show that it will affect the heart and circulatory system.
Jason Sea Fresh Toothpaste:
This product contains only plant and mineral based ingredients, none of which have been shown to be toxic. It contains several plant medicines that are especially helpful to the teeth and gums including:
Blue Green Algae: Naturally prevents infection of teeth and gums. Greatly enhances structure of connective tissue. Has a synergistic relationship with Vitamin C in building new tissue.
Aloe Barbadensis Gel: The anti-inflamatory action and high vitamin C content keeps tissue healthy and strong. It also soothes irritated gums.
Grapefruit Seed Extract: High vitamin C content and natural antibacterial and antimicrobial action helps prevent periodontal disease.
Parsley Extract: High in vitamin A, C, B vitamins, calcium and iron.
DIY Dental Hygiene:
You can further ensure the safety of your dental products by making your own tooth powders and products. Here are a few simple do-it-yourself projects:
Myrrh toothpowder: Equal parts powdered Myrrh and Goldenseal heals and prevents periodontal disease.
Baking soda magic: Add one drop of essential oil of spearmint to 1/4 tsp of baking soda before applying to toothbrush to gently polish teeth and freshen breath.
Gum joy oil:
1/4 cup coconut oil
1 tsp blue green algae
Massage into mouth after brushing to sooth gums and protect against harmful bacteria and microbes all day or night.
References:
- Kowalchik, Claire, and William H. Hylton, Rodale’s Illustrated Encyclopedia of Herbs, Rodale Press, Pennsylvania, 1987
- Wolfe, David, Eating for Beauty, Sunfood Publishing, CA, 2007
- Dadd, Debora Lynn, Home Safe Home, Penguin, New York, 2004
- www.wikipedia.org
- http://www.ewg.org/
- http://store.veganessentials.com/jason-sea-fresh-toothpaste-p1403.aspx
- www.colgate.com
- www.tomsofmaine.com
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