Who really cares about toothpaste? Once you dive into how toxic some of the ingredients can be, you will care. When I started reading labels, I found ingredients of iffy things that I really don’t want in my body. Fluoride is one. I know a lot of people think fluoride is important, and it can be but are you talking about fluoride the mineral or the run off byproduct from industrial processes? Let’s address fluoride with the caveat that I am not a fluoride expert. This is just my understanding.
Let’s talk FLUORIDE
Yeah, I know. . .fluoride is a healthy mineral, but the sludge used in most toothpastes is not a healthy mineral. It is a waste product. The fluoride found in most commercial toothpaste is from synthetic sources and not occurring naturally as a mineral. It is usually byproduct of industrial processes, like the production of aluminum, phosphate fertilizers, and certain chemical industries. Delightful, right? I googled to see how they were different. Just to be clear, naturally occurring fluoride in water is often in the form of calcium fluoride (CaF2) or fluorapatite. Industrial waste fluoride may include compounds like sodium fluoride (NaF) or fluorosilicic acid (H2SiF6). These are not the same things. Some people are totally okay with using the synthetic source, and that’s fine. You do you. Personally, I don’t want the synthetic version of fluoride in my body.
Why did they start doing this? Because the scientists noticed that communities that had naturally occurring fluoride in the water had better teeth. Yes, fluoride has been proven to be effective in preventing tooth decay when used appropriately Concerns have been raised about the potential health risks from excessive fluoride exposure. There are studies suggesting links between high fluoride intake and dental fluorosis (a condition that affects tooth enamel) as well as potential impacts on bone health and thyroid function. So how much is too much? Well, they put it in the water, so unless filtered out, you’re getting some that way depending on how much you drink, and then our daily dose from commercial toothpaste. So how much are your getting? Me, close to zero. I don’t want to use a waste product from industrial run off anywhere in or on my body, or even in my home. But, again, that is my personal preference.
Other ingredients of concern to me
In addition to fluoride, some commercial toothpaste formulations may contain ingredients that some people (like me) prefer to avoid due to potential health concerns. Here are a few examples:
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS): SLS is a foaming agent found in many toothpaste brands. While it helps create lather, some individuals may experience irritation or allergic reactions to SLS.
- Triclosan: Triclosan is an antibacterial agent that has been used in some toothpaste formulations. However, it has raised concerns about potential health risks, including antibiotic resistance and disruption of hormone function.
- Artificial Colors and Flavors: Some toothpaste brands contain artificial colors and flavors to enhance the product’s appearance and taste. These additives are often unnecessary and may be linked to adverse health effects in some individuals.
- Propylene Glycol: Propylene glycol is a synthetic compound used as a humectant and solvent in some toothpaste formulations. While it’s generally recognized as safe in small amounts, some people may prefer to avoid it due to concerns about its potential health effects.
- Diethanolamine (DEA): DEA is a foaming agent and emulsifier that may be found in toothpaste. It has raised concerns about potential carcinogenicity and can react with other ingredients to form potentially harmful compounds.
- Microbeads: Some toothpaste brands contain microbeads, tiny plastic particles used for exfoliation. These microbeads can contribute to plastic pollution and may be harmful to the environment.
- Parabens: Parabens are preservatives commonly used in personal care products, including some toothpaste formulations. They.ve been associated with potential health risks, including hormone disruption.
While many of these ingredients are generally recognized as safe by regulatory agencies when used in small amounts, some of us don’t really want any of this stuff in our bodies. Opting for natural or organic toothpaste options can be a way to avoid these potentially concerning ingredients. OR, do like me and make your own.
Sweeteners
Yes, I took it a step further and started making my own. Why? Because I was seeing some of the healthier brands were being sold to huge companies and the recipe changed. Plus some were using sweeteners other than xylitol, which is a sugar alcohol. While xylitol has been shown to benefit dental health, other sweeteners often used are not a good choice, imo. Xylitol inhibits the growth of cavity-causing bacteria so fewer chances of getting cavities, reduces plaque formation, and promotes remineralization of tooth enamel. It also stimulates saliva production and that helps neutralize acids in the mouth and maintain a healthy pH balance. PLUS, I’m saving money. It is like a triple WIN!
My very basic 3-2-1 toothpaste recipe
So without further ado, here is my toothpaste recipe that my daughter inspired me to make. The recipe an easy one – it is 3-2-1. If you use 3 teaspoons of the first ingredient, then use 2 teaspoons of the next and 1 teaspoons of the last. I usually do it in teaspoons and make a fresh batch each month, but you could do 3 tablespoons of the first ingredient, then 2 tablespoons of the second and 1 tablespoon of the last. 3-2-1. It is really this basic. Please note that I do not add any essential oils to it for flavor. You certainly can. Check the notes at the end for how to pick an essential oil for this recipe. The recipe has links to my amazon affiliate link for the products.
- 3 teaspoons Calcium Carbonate
- 2 teaspoons Baking Soda
- 1 teaspoon Xylitol
- Enough coconut oil to mix in to make it crumbly, about the size of peas or smaller. I use about 1/2 a tablespoon, but I notice that in the winter I need a bit more to get it to mix well, but I live pretty far north where it is very cold.
- Once you have all the ingredients in a bowl, mix with your fingers to get the coconut oil mixed in. Do not melt the coconut oil, but it should be a bit softened. When you have crumbles about the size of peas or smaller, then you are done. If you are adding in an essential oil, do it when mixing in the coconut oil.
- When brushing teeth, I wet my toothbrush, then take a pinch of the mixture and put it in my mouth. Brush as normal. I spit the toothpaste into the trash can and not down the sink just because too much coconut oil (or any solid fat) can clog a drain. So just to be on the safe side, I spit into the trash can.
NOTES:
- When selecting essential oils for a toothpaste recipe, it’s important to choose high-quality, food-grade oils that are safe for oral use. Look for oils that are labeled as 100% pure and organic, as these are less likely to contain additives or contaminants. Also, be mindful of any potential allergies or sensitivities to specific essential oils and use them in appropriate dilutions to avoid irritation. I have no idea if an essential oil can conflict with a medication, so if you are unsure about one, you need to talk to your doctor.
- Regarding baking soda: I’m using the one I have, but will not be buying it again. The one I want to use is organic, and aluminum and cornstarch free.
