The Myth About Fluoride… Why Natural Toothpaste is Better
We have been sold the myth that fluoride is healthy, and that our teeth need whiteners to lift off stains. The issue with this is that fluoride has actually been linked to alarming health concerns, including exacerbating certain skin conditions.
Fluoride comes from the compound Fluorine, which is a common element meant to protect teeth from decay by mineralization and remineralization. It is not just found in our dental products, but also public and untested bottled water, as well as in some foods. According to the international association of oral medicine and toxicology, Fluoride may contribute to acne and other skin problems, reproductive issues, thyroid dysfunction, and possible neurological problems. Which means that it is not as safe as we previously believed. Too much fluoride can lead to dental fluorosis or skeletal fluorosis, and thyroid problems like hyperparathyroidism. Some dermatologists even implicated that fluoride is an irritant that can cause Perioral dermatitis (a rash of tiny red bumps around the mouth).
There are however, healthier options than Fluoride-based toothpaste. A safer alternative is made with HAP, hydroxyapatite; a natural form of calcium found in the makeup of our tooth's enamel. This compound is known to help strengthen bone material, and in toothpaste, it helps rebuild the tooth’s structure without any side effects. HAP is not toxic in large doses like fluoride and is compatible with the body because it is the same material as teeth structure. Our teeth react to HAP by becoming more resistant to plaque buildup and enamel erosion. Fluoride may be beneficial for cavity prevention, but HAP will do that and then some. It has the power to create a coating on the surface of your teeth that is sturdier in terms of protection than fluoride. It will even create a whiter, glossier finish for your teeth because of their healthy stain-free appearance.
What are the best Fluoride-free toothpastes?
This fluoride free toothpaste is a powerfully alkalizing plant paste loaded with probiotics, enzymes, and minerals. This nutritional polish contains antibacterial herbs that are both protective and help in detoxification and alkalinity. This polish is a simple paste that may be applied to the gums and teeth by brushing or massaging
This mineral toothpaste has amazing reviews of users claiming it left their mouth super fresh and clean, while also providing a natural whitening. Save a ton of money on going to the dentist's office for repairs when you can strengthen your enamel at home.
Again, trading fluoride for HAP, they have created this Mint & Green Tea paste that includes Xylitol (a great ingredient for oral health) to help with bacteria-fighting. They also include aloe vera in their formula that helps soothe and reduce sensitivity.
A natural, whitening, toothpaste that even kids can use and love. David’s makes their toothpaste fluoride-free, SLS-free, and sulfate-free, while including Xylitol to promote healthy oral care. Their packaging is fully recyclable metal, and it comes in a variety of flavors.
Noice makes a naturally sourced, organic toothpaste option that contains Eucalyptus oil, sage oil, tea tree, oil, citrus oil, and Anise seed oil. This charcoal-based formula helps to naturally whiten the appearance while fighting off plaque buildup and bacteria.
What are some ways to take care of your teeth naturally? AKA- toxin-free...
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Oil Pulling
A popular trend that has been resurfacing lately in the ancient Ayurvedic practice, oil pulling. If you are not familiar with the ancient oral practice, it is a traditional Indian medicine system that is meant to kill any bacteria in the mouth. Oil pulling involves putting a tablespoon of oil into your mouth and swishing it around for about 20 minutes before spitting it out.
The theory behind oil pulling is for the oil to essentially pull the bacteria from the mouth while naturally reducing inflammation. Research on this ancient practice is limited, however studies show that oil pulling will decrease the amount of bacteria in your mouth. Coconut oil specifically contains strong antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that are beneficial for oil pulling.
How to practice oil pulling:
- Measure one tablespoon of oil (coconut, sesame, or olive)
- Swish it around in your mouth for 15-20 minutes (do not swallow any)
- Spit it out into the trash
- Rinse your mouth well with water
- Repeat several times a week, and up to three times daily
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LED Light Therapy
Blue and red light therapy have actually proven to be beneficial in oral care as well as in skincare, and can be used to reduce bacteria while boosting the effect of teeth whitening. When using a medical grade, FDA cleared LED light, you will notice an improvement to your gum health and reduced inflammation. The best device we can recommend is the DPL Oral Care Light therapy system that combines infrared and red LEDs to increase circulation, relieve pain, heal cold sores, and enhance gum health.
Conclusion:
The point of the matter is that rinsing your mouth well with water, mouthwash, or oil throughout the day will help clean out excess bacteria and prevent tooth decay. We don’t need bleaching agents or toxic chemicals in order to have clean, healthy teeth. We need to make sure the methods and practices we are given will provide positive outcomes in all other areas of our well-being. Clean beauty goes beyond topical cosmetics, and extends into overall health, including that of the mouth. I hope this shines a light on natural oral care and how to make cleaner choices in this department.
Be well. Be safe. Be beautiful.