Alternatives to Toothpaste

At Ammons Dental by Design, we know that many of our patients are choosing natural alternatives in their food, cosmetics, and other products whenever possible. Read on to learn about certain ingredients in traditional toothpaste that worry some patients who are trying to limit their family's exposure to chemicals and artificial compounds, and discover a few alternatives to toothpaste that can also help clean your teeth.

Ingredients of concern often include: sodium laureth sulfate, a synthetic detergent that causes toothpaste to foam; artificial sweeteners and colorings; and fluoride. Unfortunately, fluoride is commonly mistaken as a dangerous chemical. But in fact, it is a mineral and important nutrient for healthy teeth. It helps strengthen tooth enamel through a process called remineralization.

Though alternative toothpaste options are becoming increasingly popular, we do advise caution when trying them out. They may help clean your teeth, but will not strengthen your teeth like a fluoride toothpaste can. We still recommend brushing your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste for optimal oral health.

1. Baking Soda - Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is a mild abrasive found in many toothpastes to help remove surface stains. If you'd prefer to avoid toothpaste, you can either dip your toothbrush in baking soda and gently brush, or dissolve some baking soda in water and use the mixture to brush. But keep in mind that daily and/or vigorous brushing with plain baking soda may damage your enamel and cause stains to worsen.
2. Sea Salt - Sea salt is another way to help clean teeth. To help prevent potential damage to your teeth, dissolve the sea salt in water and then dip your brush in the solution.
3. Tooth Soap - You can buy tooth soap online or at your local natural health store. Tooth soap contains ingredients like essential oils that may help to freshen breath and remove debris from teeth.

We want you and your family to have superb oral health. So if you're concerned about the ingredients in your toothpaste, or are curious about the benefits and risks associated with natural alternatives to traditional dental products, talk to our expert team.