Herbal Versus Mainstream Tooth Paste

Most of us know whether we like tooth paste, tooth gel or a rinse, and we know our favorite flavor. After that, though, most of us are clueless about the exact chemicals that are in the tooth-cleaning products we use every day.

People who have allergies or other health concerns may want to consider herbal or "organic" tooth paste formulations, which are widely available in natural food stores and through reputable Internet sites. These can be a good choice for people who are allergic to mint or to sodium laurel sulfate (SLS), a foaming agent that's included in most commercial toothpaste brands. SLS has been known to cause mouth ulcers and rashes around the mouth.

Typical ingredients in herbal and organic toothpastes include herbs with established historical uses, such as myrrh to help kill plaque-causing bacteria; chamomile to decrease gum inflammation; Echinacea to stimulate the immune system; sage and rhatany to lessen bleeding; and essential oils, such as peppermint, to add flavor and relieve pain and inflammation. Other common ingredients in these products include ginger, clove and tea tree oils. Some brands also include fluoride, but most do not. Occasionally, mint flavorings can irritate the skin lining the mouth and gums, so many homeopathic or "natural" toothpastes are mint-free.

Many people turn to organic toothpastes out of concern that the chemicals in their regular tooth paste are harmful. Most dentists disagree, noting that any chemicals which could pose a threat - such as hydrogen peroxide - are found in too-small amounts to cause a health problem. Even SLS, which is the source of many allergic reactions, is merely an irritant, and not a cancer-causing carcinogen, according to the American Cancer Society. For adults, the most common problem from ingesting too much commercial toothpaste is usually nausea. For children, swallowing toothpaste can lead to fluorosis, a condition that leaves spots on their permanent teeth, but causes no other damage. Allergic reactions also can appear, though, in response to specific colors and additives in a particular toothpaste brand.

If you regularly use organic or herbal toothpastes, be aware that the abrasives in some aren't strong enough to clean your teeth properly, so check with your dentist to make sure the one you're using is doing the job. As long as a person is brushing two or more times a day, the battle against plaque is half won. Still, it's good to know the ingredients in the tooth paste brand you use regularly, and ask your dentist if you have any questions or concerns.

Tooth whitening toothpastes have lead to sensitive teeth and other irritations. Tartar-control formulas, in particular, often lead to rashes around the mouth. In these cases, an all natural dental product, such as OraMD®, may be a better choice.