A healthy mouth has a healthy balance of bacteria. This balanced oral microbiome can assist in total body wellness.  

Let’s “spring clean” your toothpaste selection routine by learning which ingredients to avoid.  

SLS    

Sodium Laurel Sulfate (SLS) is a surfactant used in cleaning, personal care and pharmaceutical products. SLS can cause skin irritation, including redness, dryness, scaliness, itchiness or soreness due to the disruption of natural oil and moisture.  SLS can be harmful if swallowed and is easily absorbed into the body.  

Calcium Carbonate 

Calcium carbonate is a commonly added to toothpaste as an abrasive. It is effective at cleaning and polishing teeth. However, calcium carbonate can bind to fluoride ions, forming calcium fluoride. Calium fluoride (CaF2) is less soluble and less effective at remineralizing tooth enamel. Abrasives in toothpastes can also be a trigger for sensitivity 

Dyes 

Artifical dyes are used to give toothpaste its color. Artificial dyes can cause allergic reactions or sensitivities. The irritation to the oral mucosa can disrupt the oral microbiome and create an acidic pH imbalance.  

Triclosan 

Triclosan is an antibacterial ingredient that can be found in toothpaste. Overuse of triclosan may contribute to antimicrobial resistance and may modify the oral microbiome. It is also a known endocrine disruptor, potentially causing thyroid disruption and may increase a child’s risk of allergy. 

Spring feels like the perfect time to “spring clean” your dental routine. At Twin Oaks Dental, we believe that total wellness begins with your mouth. We are here to help you lay the foundation for a healthy mouth.