Naturally different

There are many toothpaste options at the store, all with different claims, from whitening to cavity protection to "natural." But what does "natural" even mean when it comes to toothpaste? That's where Doctor Gabe comes in! He's on a mission to help educate us all on what constitutes natural toothpaste and if it's effective for keeping our pearly whites healthy.

Naturally Different

There's a big difference between conventional and natural toothpaste! Traditional toothpaste can contain ingredients that irritate your mouth and even harm your health. On the other hand, natural toothpaste is free of harmful things like dyes, SLS, preservatives, and fake flavorings. And while conventional toothpaste often has fluoride to prevent cavities, it can be a problem for some people. So, it's time to consider switching to a more natural alternative for a healthier smile!

Ingredients in Natural Toothpaste

Natural toothpaste contains various essential ingredients for oral health, which are not always found in conventional toothpaste. It's critical to consider the ingredients in natural toothpaste to understand its benefits.

• Aloe Vera - Aloe vera is a versatile and beneficial natural ingredient with many advantages. Its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties make it particularly effective in addressing issues like gingivitis and periodontitis. While aloe vera is a valuable ingredient in toothpaste, it can also have some downsides. Some people may be sensitive or allergic to the plant, which can cause skin irritation or a burning sensation in the mouth.
• Coconut Oil - Research has shown that coconut oil can eliminate harmful bacteria in the mouth, thus helping to reduce plaque and preventing gingivitis. At the same time, coconut oil can be messy and difficult to dispense.
• Xylitol - Xylitol is a highly beneficial ingredient in toothpaste due to its cavity-fighting properties. This ingredient is known for killing the bacteria that cause cavities, making it an essential tool in preventing tooth decay. Despite its many benefits, Xylitol is a sugar alcohol. If consumed in large quantities, it can cause digestive issues for some people, such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea. Additionally, Xylitol is toxic to dogs and other pets, so it's crucial to keep toothpaste containing Xylitol out of reach of pets.
• Essential oils - Essential oils in toothpaste offer a variety of benefits beyond their refreshing taste. Essential oils can improve gum health, freshen breath, control harmful bacteria, and even help whiten teeth. Essential oils also are gentle and safe to use when properly diluted. Some of the most popular essential oils included in natural toothpaste are:
• Orange Essential Oil: Orange essential oil is a delicious addition to toothpaste and has been scientifically proven to have teeth-whitening benefits. Research shows that brushing twice a day with a toothpaste that contains 5% d-limonene, which is found in orange oil extracted from orange peels, significantly reduces stains on the teeth.
• Citrus Essential Oil (lemon, lime, and grapefruit): Citrus essential oils like lemon, lime, and grapefruit have been found to provide several benefits when used in toothpaste. These oils are effective antiseptics and can help kill harmful bacteria in the mouth, leading to fresher breath and better oral health. In addition to their antibacterial properties, they help stimulate tissue formation, making them beneficial for those with gingivitis or receding gums. With their crisp and refreshing scents, these essential oils boost freshness to your tooth-brushing routine while improving your oral health.
• Bergamot Essential Oil: Bergamot essential oil is an excellent addition to toothpaste for its antimicrobial benefits. The flavonoids found in bergamot oil are highly effective in stopping bacteria from growing and spreading, which helps to maintain good oral health and fresh breath. Its antimicrobial properties make it an excellent ingredient for preventing bad breath and keeping your mouth smelling clean and fresh.
• Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree essential oil is a popular ingredient in toothpaste due to its strong antiseptic properties. It helps to fight harmful bacteria in the mouth and maintain oral hygiene. However, it is essential to note that tea tree oil is not meant to be ingested and should be kept away from children to prevent accidental swallowing.
• Peppermint Essential Oil: Peppermint essential oil is a popular ingredient in toothpaste due to its natural antiseptic properties. It helps to neutralize harmful bacteria that can cause cavities and gum disease, keeping the mouth healthy and clean. Additionally, peppermint essential oil provides a cool and soothing sensation, making brushing a more enjoyable experience. Using natural mint oils like peppermint oil instead of synthetic menthol offers a more authentic and natural solution to oral hygiene.
• Spearmint Essential Oil: Spearmint essential oil is an excellent alternative for those not fans of strong minty flavors in their toothpaste. It still provides the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits that help maintain oral health, but with a much milder taste. The menthol content in spearmint is only 0.5% compared to peppermint's 40%, making it a gentler option for those with sensitive taste buds.

Overall, using essential oils in toothpaste offers a natural and effective solution for maintaining oral health. Essential oils have a range of benefits, including freshening breath, killing harmful bacteria, reducing inflammation, and even whitening teeth. With essential oils like citrus, bergamot, tea tree, peppermint, and spearmint, there are many options to choose from to suit individual preferences and needs. Unlike other natural ingredients such as aloe vera, coconut oil, or Xylitol, essential oils provide powerful antimicrobial and antioxidant benefits to help improve oral health but without little potential side effects. Whether you're looking for a more robust minty flavor or a milder taste, an essential oil is the best option for you.

This is something Doctor Gabe kept in mind while formulating his toothpaste. This fluoride-free toothpaste contains a unique and rich blend of essential oils, including peppermint and spearmint, and the clinical power of hydroxyapatite. This makes our toothpaste more gentle on the mouth than conventional toothpaste, and offers an overall more enjoyable brushing experience.