As far back as you can remember, toothpaste has been a part of your life. Used to cleanse your ivories, it’s viewed as a helpful tool that you can trust to help in maintaining a healthy mouth, teeth and gums. You may be surprised to find out, then, that some types include harmful chemicals that can have adverse effects on your overall health. As you read on, your dentist in Plano weighs in to reveal some of the hidden agents in toothpaste that you want to avoid.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
Known as a foaming and cleaning agent, this chemical compound is a known skin irritant that can damage the tissue lining inside the mouth. Over time, these chemicals can cause canker sores and can also have adverse effects on the eyes, brain and liver. The most alarming thing about this ingredient is that it has been classified as a poison by the Journal of The American College of Toxicology.
Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
Another common ingredient found in many toothpastes is SLES, which is a potential carcinogen. Additionally, it has been identified as a contributor to hair loss. More disturbing is the fact that this chemical can’t be metabolized by the human liver, which means that it remains in the system for a prolonged period of time.
Triclosan (Cloxifenolum)
A surprising fact is that triclosan, an ingredient found in some toothpastes and used to kill bacteria and gingivitis, is considered a pesticide. It can cause developmental issues and can have other residual effects on a person.
Hydrated Silica (Sand)
Used to whiten teeth, this chemical compound uses little grains in combination with chalk to act as abrasives to help remove plaque. Although this substance is listed as safe by the Food and Drug Administration, it still raises some “red flags” and should probably be avoided.
What Can I Use as an Alternative?
Thankfully, there are several healthier alternatives available on the market that don’t contain any of the harmful ingredients listed above. The best way to protect yourself and your family is to take the time to read your labels before making any purchases.
To get more valuable information on how to choose the safest toothpaste, you can also reach out to your local dentist. While visiting, you can also learn about the best techniques for brushing your teeth to ensure that you get the maximum benefits from whatever type of toothpaste you choose to use.
About the Author
Dr. Shannon Stokes earned his dental degree from Baylor College of Dentistry, which is considered as one of the country’s best dental schools. For 18 years, he’s gone on to provide top-notch care to his patients, with an extra emphasis on making them feel comfortable and informed, and to aid in his constant growth, Dr. Stokes has completed a variety of continuing education courses. He educates and treats patients at his private practice and can be reached for more information through his website.
