Is Organic Toothpaste Better For You?

There are many known benefits to choosing certain organic items over regular items but what about when it comes to organic toothpaste?

Many patients choose organic toothpaste because there are specific ingredients they don’t want in their toothpaste. These ingredients can include fluoride, sodium lauryl sulfate, and saccharin. What do you know about these ingredients?

Fluoride

Fluoride is a natural mineral of the earth that is safe at certain levels. Many communities add fluoride to their water supplies as a cost-effective and simple way to reduce the occurrence of cavities. Minerals like fluoride and calcium harden the crystalline structure of enamel, the outer layer of teeth, to strengthen it against damage and decay. As an ingredient in toothpaste, fluoride exposure further helps reduce decay and cavities.

Let our team at Gentle Dentistry know if you’re worried about your family’s fluoride exposure.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)

SLS is a foaming agent that helps create a rich lather to clean surfaces (like your teeth) more thoroughly. Some internet sources claim it is linked to cancer, but there is no scientific evidence that this is the case.

Saccharin

Saccharin is used as a sugar-free sweetener in many toothpastes. Without it, your toothpaste might taste a little unpleasant. This sweetener is used because it has a good shelf life and does not cause tooth decay like sugar. Saccharin is regarded as safe by multiple national organizations.

Alternative Ingredients In Organic Toothpaste

Organic toothpaste without the aforementioned ingredients can contain other substances for flavoring and cleaning power, such as: bentonite clay, xylitol, essential oils, neem extract, cinnamon, and peppermint.

Consult With Gentle Dentistry In Tampa, FL!

Depending on the toothpaste, brushing twice a day for two minutes each time with an organic toothpaste may still offer cleansing benefits and cavity-prevention benefits. If you are concerned whether you’re getting the maximum benefit out of your oral hygiene routine or if you’re not sure about the safety of a certain toothpaste, schedule an appointment at Gentle Dentistry, your dentist in Tampa, FL!  Drs. Tong and Rasmussen, and our team would love to help you with all your oral healthcare needs.