

The small amount of xylitol used in oral care products is usually well-tolerated says Dr. However, some people may be sensitive to xylitol. So xylitol is a popular ingredient in natural toothpastes and other dental care products. Over time, fewer and fewer of these bacteria survive on tooth surfaces, therefore, decreasing tooth decay,” says Dr. In fact, just the opposite occurs: “The bacteria that is responsible for cavities is called Streptococcus mutans and it can't utilize xylitol to grow.

Unlike other carbohydrates, xylitol doesn’t break down in the mouth (so it can’t cause cavities). Xylitol is used as a natural zero-calorie sweetener and also in dental products. Chemically, it’s a type of alcohol that’s a carbohydrate (and it doesn’t actually contain alcohol). Xylitol is found in many plants and is usually extracted from birch trees. So if you do want fluoride, look for that on the package when buying. Some of the brands on this list offer toothpastes with it, but generally, natural toothpaste brands tend not to have the ingredient. Some people prefer to avoid fluoride in their toothpaste. That’s why toothpaste labels say not to swallow the paste and to call poison control, especially if kids swallow paste instead of spitting it out. What is known is that in larger amounts, fluoride is poisonous. But there’s disagreement in the dental community, and some dentists think that the evidence for fluoride in water and toothpastes isn’t strong enough. The American Dental Association backs community water fluoridation as well as toothpastes containing fluoride. About 75% of American community water supplies have added fluoride in them, and that, along with widespread use of toothpaste with added fluoride, is credited with reducing the number of cavities people get. There’s a great divide in toothpastes: Those with fluoride and those without.

Here are our top picks for the best natural toothpastes: Ramezani recommends using a toothpaste that’s naturally low-foaming and free of SLS. "SLS or sulfate derivatives have a tendency to dry out the mouth, making the environment more susceptible to cavities." This harsh chemical in toothpaste could also cause canker sores, irritation of gums and soft tissues and pain she says. Pooneh Ramezani, a dentist who has researched natural products extensively. “SLS is a harsh ingredient that is also found in detergent," says Dr. There’s even some evidence that SLS could have negative effects on gum health when used every day. After all, it’s not necessary for toothpaste to be a particular color, flavor, or to foam a lot-it can clean well without these ingredients. Those ingredients, including foaming agents like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and diethanolamine, dyes, and flavors, don’t lead to cleaner teeth. That’s why more naturally based toothpastes exist-as more people prefer to avoid daily exposure to the artificial colors, flavors, and other chemicals that are commonly found in conventional toothpastes. Good habits like these are key to lifelong good health, and it’s the products we use regularly that could affect that health the most. Most of us brush our teeth once or twice a day, every day.
