Harmful Ingredients In Toothpaste and What To Do About It
While toothpaste is formulated to clean teeth and improve oral health, some ingredients have raised concerns among consumers and researchers for various reasons. It's important to note that the impact of these ingredients can vary based on individual sensitivities, the amount used, and the frequency of exposure. Here are some commonly discussed ingredients that have been flagged for potential concerns regarding teeth, gums, or overall health:
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS): SLS is a surfactant used to create foam and remove debris and stains. Some people find that SLS can irritate their mouth, leading to canker sores or mouth ulcers. There's also a debate about its impact on the mucosal lining of the mouth.
Triclosan: Used in some toothpaste for its antibacterial properties, triclosan has been the subject of scrutiny over potential hormone disruption and the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The FDA has banned triclosan from hand and body soaps in the United States, but it can still be found in some toothpaste.
Propylene Glycol: This is a type of alcohol used as a moisture-carrying vehicle and solvent in many toothpastes. While generally recognized as safe in small amounts, some individuals are concerned about its presence in personal care products.
Diethanolamine (DEA): DEA is used to create foam in toothpaste. It has raised concerns due to its potential to react with other ingredients to form N-nitroso diethanolamine (NDEA), a known carcinogen.
Artificial Sweeteners: Ingredients like saccharin and aspartame are used in toothpaste to improve taste. While approved for use, these artificial sweeteners have been the subject of ongoing debate regarding their safety and potential health effects.
Artificial Colors/Dyes: Some toothpastes contain artificial colors or dyes, which some people prefer to avoid due to concerns about allergic reactions or other health impacts.
Fluoride: While fluoride is widely acknowledged for its ability to prevent tooth decay and is considered safe and effective when used as directed, excessive fluoride intake (fluorosis) during tooth development can lead to changes in the appearance of tooth enamel in children. Some people also prefer to avoid fluoride due to concerns about its overall health effects, although these concerns are not supported by mainstream dental health organizations.
Microbeads: Some toothpaste used to include tiny plastic particles (polyethylene microbeads) for abrasive purposes. Concerns about environmental impact and potential accumulation in the body led to their phase-out and bans in many regions.
It's important for consumers to choose toothpaste that meets their health needs and preferences. Reading labels and understanding the function and potential impact of ingredients can help. For those with specific concerns, there are many alternative toothpaste formulations available, including natural and organic options that avoid certain synthetic ingredients. Always consult with a dental professional if you have concerns about the best toothpaste choice for your oral health.
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I am excited to have a toothpaste that features purified silver, coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), grape seed extract, and Dental-Lac™, a Lactobacillus paracasei probiotic that has been shown in research to help support oral microbial balance and periodontal health. This toothpaste contains no fluoride, sodium lauryl sulfate, or saccharin. It is also free of BPAs, parabens, synthetic colors, as well as gluten, and synthetic sweeteners. Periobiotic™ Silver may help maintain dental and oral health and may support oral microbial balance.
Ingredients in Peribiotic Silver
Top reviews from the United States
Reviewed in the United States on August 17, 2023
Flavor Name: Spearmint
Verified Purchase
I like the mild taste and the smooth texture
5.0 out of 5 stars Works so well
Reviewed in the United States on September 3, 2023
Flavor Name: Spearmint
Verified Purchase
Takes such a small amount. Foams very well and does a great job without the toxins.
4.0 out of 5 stars tastes so off putting
Reviewed in the United States on August 30, 2023
Flavor Name: Lemon
Verified Purchase
the taste is so weird it really steered me away from even finishing the toob
Dr. Paul’s Response: Yes I know, the Spearmint is much better!
5.0 out of 5 stars Removed decades of tartar from my front back teeth!
Reviewed in the United States on September 22, 2023
Flavor Name: Lemon
Verified Purchase
I wish I had photos of my bottom front teeth before I started using this toothpaste. I have nothing else at all to attribute it to, but after only a few weeks of using this, not even every day mind you.......the buildup of tartar that had been at the bottom of the back of my front teeth just FELL OFF in my mouth while I was watching tv! So crazy! I never expected to really notice much at all with this toothpaste. I have made my own colloidal silver for many years now, and have used it in my mouth countless times, and have never experienced anything so noticeable, except that it heals gums SUPER fast, especially when used in a water pik! Anyway, back to the toothpaste......I went looking for a silver toothpaste, and found this! I bought the lemon flavor. Since I use homeopathy, I steer clear of mint toothpastes, or it could antidote the remedies. The lemon flavor is ok. It's not great, could definitely be better, but it's also not bad. Slight bitterness to me. My husband doesn't notice any bitterness, and he likes it, as well. We will definitely keep purchasing this brand! I've used natural toothpastes and powders for my entire life. Never have had fluoride toothpaste, so it's super important for us to have fluoride-free toothpaste, and natural ingredients. I'd love it if they also had other flavors like strawberry, orange, pink grapefruit, lime, grape.....something other than mint as the only other option.
Give it a try, especially if you have tartar buildup! Highly recommend!
Reviewed in the United States on August 14, 2023
Flavor Name: Spearmint
Verified Purchase
A friend recommended this and so I tried it and I just love it. It's mild but has a good taste and makes your mouth feel good. I would definitely recommend it.
3.0 out of 5 stars Not senior friendly but good taste
Reviewed in the United States on October 12, 2023
Flavor Name: Spearmint
Verified Purchase
I like this product but I bought it for my mom who has dementia. Most older people will have trouble opening this tube. The paste is so dense it takes some hand strength to squeeze out - easy for regular folks but not for the elderly or those with arthritis. Also it’s hard to tell that this is toothpaste. The word “toothpaste” is not prominent enough, so I’ve watched my mom get confused as to what this is. For the next packaging revamp I would suggest researching how effective this bottle is for a wider range of customers. Other than that, great product!
5.0 out of 5 stars This Product Really Works
Reviewed in the United States on September 3, 2023
Flavor Name: Spearmint
Verified Purchase
I was quite intrigued by the claims of this product, so I went ahead and purchased one; it did not disappoint. My teeth are the whitest they've ever been, I have less plaque, and I don't have morning breath. After using this toothpaste for a week, I bought two more. Someone said in their review that it caused their gums/teeth to bleed; initially, this also happened to me but I changed my toothbrush and the problem was solved. This product may be a bit pricey, but the benefits are excellent!
5.0 out of 5 stars Great toothpaste
Reviewed in the United States on August 9, 2023
Flavor Name: Spearmint
Verified Purchase
I was hesitant to use toothpaste that didn't have fluoride. It was given to me by a friend and stuck to it. Surprisingly, my teeth stopped having the usual pains after about a week. Sticking to fluoride-free toothpaste from now on, great stuff.