Do you brush your teeth with potentially toxic traditional kinds of toothpaste or even ineffective natural toothpaste? How do you distinguish between the two?
You may be surprised to learn that most traditional toothpaste carries harmful ingredients such as Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES). These two chemicals create the foam in toothpaste, giving the illusion of a deep clean. They can lead to mouth ulcers, canker sores, stomach issues, and cancer. Another chemical sometimes found in drugstore toothpaste is Propylene Glycol, used in antifreeze, paints, enamels, and airplane de-icers. Unfortunately, some of the natural toothpaste you expect to be safe still contains harmful ingredients like surfactants, preservatives, and glycerin.
Deborah G. Anders, DDS, PA Adult and Family Dentistry, is excited to announce that we’re introducing Hydroxyapatite thanks to new technology and alternative solutions. Hydroxyapatite is an alternative solution to fluoride and is a naturally occurring mineral that makes up 97% of our tooth enamel and is proven to strengthen and protect teeth without fluoride.
What is fluoride, and what are the risks?
Fluoride is a mineral in bones and teeth commonly used in dentistry to help prevent cavities and improve dental health. Fluoride is also found naturally in water, soil, plants, rocks, and air. Because fluoride is a natural component with benefits, recognizing the side effects is necessary.
Here is a list of the risks:
- Dental fluorosis
- Skeletal fluorosis
- Tooth discoloration
- Thyroid problems
- Neurological problems
- Tooth decay
What are the alternatives?
Hydroxyapatite is safe enough to be directly ingested, though there’s no reason to eat it. Another appealing factor about this natural alternative is that it starves harmful bacteria from its food source. Therefore, it can’t produce the acids that cause cavities. You’ll find exceptional results like naturally fresh breath because Hydroxyapatite contains essential oils like peppermint and tea tree extracts. It also reduces inflammation, fights bacteria, and boosts your immune system!
While many believe that fluoride is important, oral disease remains high in the United States and developed and underdeveloped nations worldwide. Arginine is another solution with great benefits and is a contributor to world mouth health by playing a role in maintaining a pH-neutral environment and is proven to help with tooth sensitivity.
According to Anne Nugent Guigman, arginine is a natural component of healthy saliva. Numerous salivary microbes metabolize arginine deiminase system (ADS). It is why ammonia is an important metabolic by-product. Daily use of arginine-containing products effectively alters the oral environment. The constant production of ammonia on a cellular level causes the oral pH to rise. A neutral pH creates a hostile environment for pathogens, resulting in an oral ecology that favors health, not disease.
How can you keep your teeth healthy?
- Brush properly. How you brush your teeth is critical for healthy gums and teeth. Take your time and gently move the toothbrush in circular motions to remove plaque. Un-removed plaque can harden, which leads to calculus buildup and gingivitis (early gum disease).
- Flossing is as important as brushing!
- Consider mouthwash. It reduces the amount of acid in the mouth, cleans hard-to-brush areas in and around the gums, and remineralizes the teeth. Ask your dentist about specific recommendations.
- Drink more water. Water will always be the best beverage for your overall health – including oral health. Tip: drink water after every meal. It washes some of the adverse effects of sticky and acidic foods and beverages in between brushes.
- Limit sugary and acidic foods. Sugar converts to acid in the mouth, eroding the enamel on your teeth. Avoid acidic fruits, teas, and coffee. While you don’t have to permanently remove these types of foods, it doesn’t hurt to be mindful.
- Visit your dentist at least twice a year.
If you’re ready to take the next step and go fluoride free, contact us today! We even have surprises for you at the end of your visit.