7 Toothpaste Ingredients to Avoid
Most of us use toothpaste daily to clean our teeth and freshen our breath. While toothpaste can help to prevent cavities or gum disease, some types of toothpaste may include ingredients that can be potentially harmful. The best way to truly understand what’s in your toothpaste and how it can affect you is to consult with a dentist or medical professional. If you want to avoid potentially toxic ingredients or go the more natural route, however, here are some toothpaste ingredients you may want to watch out for.
Common Chemicals in Toothpaste (& Other Oral Care Products) You May Want to Avoid
Don't be mistaken: If you accidentally swallow a little toothpaste while brushing, it likely will not hurt you. The main reason that Poison Control is called regarding toothpaste is due to individuals (most often small children) ingesting large quantities of toothpaste. However, the ingredients listed below can be toxic in excessive quantities.
Again, check with your dentist and healthcare professional to determine which ingredients to use or avoid based on any individual health concerns.
Saccharin, Aspartame, and Other Artificial Sweeteners
In order to give toothpaste a pleasant taste, manufacturers often load it with saccharin, aspartame, xylitol, and other artificial sweeteners. These sweeteners can produce negative health effects for some people if consumed in large doses.
Sodium Hydroxide
Sodium hydroxide is a caustic soda -- also known as a lye -- with a metallic base that is used in textiles, drain cleaners, and toothpaste in order to neutralize the pH of other ingredients.
Herbal Extracts
Herbal extracts are often put in so-called "healthy" or "organic" toothpaste. However, herbal extracts can cause negative interactions with prescription medications and can also have unexpected side effects. Check with your doctor for any medication interactions from herbal extracts.
Carrageenan
Carrageenan is a thickening agent that makes toothpaste an actual paste instead of a liquid. This allows it to be easily placed on a toothbrush and to remain on the teeth during brushing. However, this ingredient has also been associated with inflammatory skin conditions in some people.
Alcohol
Alcohol is a frequent component in oral care products, particularly mouthwash, due to its antibacterial properties. Unfortunately, it also tends to dry the mouth, which may increase the risk of plaque buildup and mouth sores.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
This chemical is an industrial detergent that creates the foaming properties in toothpaste. It has been associated with canker sores, dry mouth, and allergies in some people. According to a safety assessment study, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate is not harmful if it’s used briefly and rinsed, but if you’re worried about negative effects, you may want to find a toothpaste that omits this ingredient.
Parabens
Parabens are preservatives used to make toothpaste last longer, which allows toothpaste to stay on store shelves longer. Parabens have been linked to various health issues in some people. Talk to your doctor about whether or not you should avoid parabens in toothpaste or other products.
Keep in mind that toothpaste is not meant to ingest and that’s why we spit it out after we brush our teeth. Many of the negative effects of these chemicals occur when ingesting in large quantities. You may want to look into alternatives, but we still recommend talking to your dentist and doctor about how these chemicals may affect you.
Is Fluoride Toxic in Toothpaste?
Of all the ingredients found in toothpaste, fluoride is perhaps the most well-known. A small amount of fluoride has been linked to positive oral health effects, including healthier and stronger teeth and gums. However, in high concentrations, fluoride is associated with health issues including nausea and vomiting, and abdominal pain.
Is Hydrogen Peroxide Toxic in Toothpaste?
Hydrogen peroxide is often used as a whitening agent in toothpaste and other oral care products, including tooth whitening strips. Hydrogen peroxide can be dangerous if consumed in large doses; which is more than the amount used in oral hygiene products. Again, consult your dentist or doctor if you have any concerns.
Shop Safe Toothpastes & Oral Care at Co-op Market
Because toothpaste is an important part of our daily personal hygiene routines, it is important to understand the ingredients that are commonly found in toothpaste. If you prefer to be cautious and want to swap your toothpaste and oral care products for safer alternatives, take a look at these products, available at Co-op Market.