Organic Toothpaste

If you shop at a natural market like Whole Foods or Sprouts, you have probably seen the organic toothpastes available in the cosmetics aisle. Companies like Toms of Maine and Jason all sell numerous types and flavors of toothpaste with varying promises. No matter what the packaging claims about being anti-cavity or enamel strengthening, all toothpastes have to have fluoride to protect against oral disease.

The protective factor of brushing your teeth comes from the mechanical action of scrubbing the enamel and the remineralizing effect of fluoride. Fluoride works by increasing the rate of enamel mineralization and interfering with bacteria's ability to colonize your teeth. Years of research and clinical trials have shown that using fluoride is safe, effective and significantly lowers your risk of developing cavities.  If you aren't using fluoride toothpaste, you are missing out these great benefits. Other ingredients, such as baking soda or triclosan may add to the protective factors but are not effective enough on their own to fight cavities. 

If you are interested in switching to an organic or specialty toothpaste, simply check the packaging for added fluoride (all active ingredients have to be disclosed by law). Specifically, Toms of Maine sells a version of their organic toothpaste with fluoride. If you have any more questions about fluoride, toothpaste, or oral hygiene, please give our office a call! 

Triclosan in Toothpaste

Antibacterial hand soaps recently made national news as the FDA banned a number of substances from their composition. On this list is triclosan, a controversial antibacterial that has been noted in a number of health concerns. While blanket banned in Europe, triclosan is still used in millions of American products available today, including toothpaste. In this article, we will discuss why triclosan is still used in oral health products, and if you should be concerned. 

Triclosan provides its antimicrobial action by preventing bacteria and fungi from making new cell membranes. Without new membranes, the bacteria cannot repair or reproduce themselves. While triclosan does not affect our own ability to make cell walls, the FDA banned it from consumer soaps due to concerns of breeding bacterial immunity and "lack of efficacy." In other words, overusing triclosan isn't making humanity healthier OR helping keep bacteria superbugs at bay. 

In toothpastes, triclosan is used to fight plaque and gingivitis by killing bacteria similarly to how it worked in hand soaps. The FDA continues to approve its use (in small doses) as research has proved its effectiveness in improving oral health. It is usually found in products like Colgate Total and other toothpastes with "antigingivitis" properties. 

Do you need to use a toothpaste with triclosan? Should you be worried if your brand contains triclosan? It's really a matter of preference. To be effective, toothpastes really only need a single active ingredient- fluoride. All other chemicals- antiplaques, desensitizers, baking soda, etc.- may help certain patients but are not universally beneficial as part of daily oral care. Some individuals may see a decline in plaque and inflammation by using a toothpaste with triclosan. However, the best way to eliminate plaque is by mechanical disruption- regular, daily flossing. 

In short, there is no reason to panic if you're using a toothpaste that contains triclosan. However, if the recent changes in FDA regulations have made you weary, feel free to switch brands. Many  all-natural offerings like Toms of Maine Cavity Protection Toothpaste are organic, antibacterial free and contain an therapeutic dose of fluoride. If you would like more help in picking out toothpaste, floss, or mouth rinses, please give our office a call!