Our oral hygiene is an important and predictable part of our morning and evening rituals for most of us. We pick up our favorite products, squeeze the toothpaste out on the toothbrush, and away we go. In all the years we’ve been using these products, it’s likely we’ve never spared the ingredient list a single glance. Even those who lean towards products that use more natural substances may never get beyond the ‘all-natural labeling to find out what they’re using. So long as the ADA has approved the product, you can generally assume they’re safe. However, you may be interested in knowing more about how these natural options work to protect your smile.
Introducing Three Safe and Natural Oral Hygiene Ingredients
Natural oral hygiene products usually contain an ingredient list that’s easy to read and understand. The lack of manufactured chemicals tends to guarantee it, though you may not know what all of them are for. These ingredients are often included and provide a range of benefits.
Tea Tree Oil
One common ingredient in mainstream dental products is triclosan. Triclosan was shown to be effective at eliminating bacterial contamination. However, ongoing studies revealed that it could also have unfortunate consequences. These include boosting antibiotic resistance in bacteria and causing complications for our endocrine system. These properties led to its use being banned in body wash and soap. This ban did not go so far as to prevent its use in toothpaste, however.
This has led natural toothpaste producers to find an alternative to this unfortunate substance. The most popular replacement is tea tree oil. This oil is known to prevent the development of fungus and bacteria in the body and to have wonderful antiseptic properties. Reductions in gum inflammation and strengthening of the enamel have also been associated with tea tree oil.
Magnolia Bark Extract
Many of us, even those with good oral hygiene, struggle with halitosis. This condition, also more commonly known as bad breath, can be unpleasant for the sufferer and those they’re around alike. Magnolia bark has been demonstrated to reduce the presence of the bacteria responsible for halitosis and tooth decay. This property made it an easy shoo-in for natural toothpaste and chewing gum.
Xylitol
Chewing gum plays an unexpectedly important role in the preservation of your teeth. Its gummy texture helps to scrub out the spaces between your teeth. Xylitol is often used as a sweetener instead of sugar. This is great news since Xylitol has been shown to battle bacteria responsible for tooth decay. If that wasn’t enough, it’s also capable of reducing how effectively bacteria can stick to our teeth. It’s a double-point attack on tooth decay.
These are just three of the substances you may find in your natural toothpaste ingredient list.
Your Dentist Can Provide More Information
Your dentist will take steps to provide you with a greater insight into natural and safe dental options. They’ll inform you which have been shown to be effective and which are best left on the pharmacy shelves. Speak with them during your next bi-annual dental visit.
