Most of us make a habit of brushing and flossing to keep our mouths clean and healthy over time. Interestingly, a large portion of the world’s population relies on toothpaste for their daily brushing routine. For example, in the US alone, people buy around 400 million tubes of toothpaste each year.
But let’s put history and stats aside for a moment. Have you ever wondered about the poison warnings you see on most toothpaste labels? Or do you prefer to stay optimistic, focusing on the positives and sticking with your favorite toothpaste brand without thinking too much about potential risks?
Either way, it’s a good idea to visit North End Dental for a check-up to keep your teeth in top shape. Back in 1997, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) made it mandatory for all fluoride toothpaste sold in the US to have a poison warning on the package. This was because fluoride toothpaste could be dangerous if swallowed, especially for kids. While it’s very rare for fluoride poisoning to be fatal, research links fluoride to other issues like skin rashes and problems with glucose metabolism.
Over time, more people are choosing safer toothpaste options that don’t contain harmful ingredients. You can find plenty of information about these safer toothpaste options online. Here are some other ingredients you might want to avoid:
SLS is a chemical that creates foam in many personal and home care products, including toothpaste. It’s classified as a surfactant, which means it helps mix ingredients like water and oil by reducing surface tension. While SLS makes your toothpaste foamy, it doesn’t actually benefit your oral health. In fact, it can cause irritation and allergic reactions in some users, leading to canker sores.
Triclosan is an antibacterial agent found in many personal care products, including toothpaste. Studies show that triclosan can have negative health effects, such as promoting antibiotic-resistant bacteria, disrupting hormones, and impairing muscle function. The FDA has banned some cleaning products containing triclosan after companies couldn’t prove its effectiveness over other alternatives.
So, when you’re shopping for toothpaste, look for brands that are free of fluoride, SLS, triclosan, and artificial sweeteners. These choices will help you maintain great oral health, give you a beautiful smile, and protect you from potential health risks.