Finding the right brand of toothpaste may feel like a struggle because you may think they’re all the same. However, they’re mostly made from different ingredients that make some work better than others. So what should you be looking for in toothpastes and which ingredients should you absolutely avoid?
Look For The Seal
Any dentist in sandy is going to tell you that you should look for a toothpaste that has the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance. This seal means that the toothpaste has been examined and evaluated by the ADA and is considered safe and effective. Without this seal, then you should probably consider looking at something else. The best recommendations for good toothpastes can be obtained from your dentist, especially because they know your teeth so well.
Triclosan
Triclosan is an ingredient that is found in toothpaste, soaps, cosmetics, and body wash. Studies conducted by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have shown that triclosan can cause a decrease in thyroid hormones. However, the data isn’t considered very significant in regard to human health. To test this effect, there are several studies that have been examining the link between triclosan and antibiotic resistance, as well as skin cancer. However, these studies are not yet complete, so there are no definitive results.
Artificial Sweeteners
Most people are trying to stay away from sugar, believing that it rots your teeth and is generally bad for your health. However, artificial sweeteners are no better. The most popular ones used are saccharin and aspartame. Saccharin has been proven in past studies to be linked to brain tumors, lymphoma, and bladder cancer. Current studies, however, have not provided any conclusive evidence to support these claims.
Aspartame has been shown to increase blood glucose and have an effect on gut bacteria. This can lead to insulin resistance, which can be detrimental to those who rely on insulin injections if they’re diabetic.
It might be better to look at toothpastes that use honey or stevia in their ingredients list since they are more natural sweeteners that haven’t been shown to have a negative impact on health.
Propylene Glycol
Propylene glycol is added to products to increase their shelf life, as well as preserve their appearance and texture. However, when ingested in large quantities, it has been linked to damage to the heart, central nervous system, and liver. Those who have kidney or liver disease will be more greatly affected by the presence of propylene glycol in the products they use, since breaking the chemical down becomes more difficult.
The problem is that propylene glycol is present in objects and products that people use almost every day. It is present in cosmetics, prescription drugs, and food flavorings. To reduce your ingestion of this chemical, it might be best to look for toothpaste that does not have this ingredient.
Parabens
Parabens are also used to extend the shelf life of cosmetics and specific products, including toothpaste. It is believed that parabens can disrupt normal hormone function because it mimics estrogen. In some cases, it has been linked to breast cancer, while other studies have shown that parabens have an effect on developmental and reproductive issues. The FDA is still evaluating the safety of parabens, given that there is limited information on the chemical. However, it might be best to just stay away from it altogether and choose a different toothpaste.
Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS)
Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) can cause skin irritation as well as aphthous ulcers (also known as canker sores). Canker sores are typically caused by stress, acidic foods, and minor injuries to the mouth. They’re not contagious and will go away on their own, even without treatment.
One study conducted by the Department of Oral Surgery and Oral Medicine involved patients using toothpaste containing SLS for about a three-month period. At the end of the trial, patients had significantly more canker sores than they did before the trial started. After they switched to SLS-free toothpaste, the number of canker sores significantly decreased. So for those who deal with canker sores on a regular basis, it would be better to choose SLS-free toothpastes to eliminate the pain and hassle.
Diethanolamine (DEA)
Diethanolamine is a chemical that has been used in antifreeze and brake fluid, which is probably not something you want to have in your toothpaste. A study conducted in 1998 determined that the topical application of DEA has been linked to cancers in animals. It also induced hepatic choline deficiency (which is a deficiency of the liver). So be sure to read the ingredients of your toothpaste to ensure that diethanolamine is not present.
Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal has become a popular ingredient as of late, as it has been touted as a toxin neutralizer and a teeth whitener. However, charcoal is pretty abrasive and will actually wear down your enamel, leading to thinner teeth that are more prone to breaking. It would be best to avoid brands of toothpaste with this ingredient in order to protect the health of your teeth.
Titanium Oxide
Titanium oxide is mostly used as a tooth whitening and anti-plaque agent in toothpaste. However, the European Union has banned it entirely in all food products, since it has been linked to titanium dioxide nanoparticles and genetic damage in mice. That is why it is no longer considered safe to be in consumer goods.
Artificial Dyes And Colourings
There’s no reason for your toothpaste to have dyes and colors that aren’t necessary. Sure, your toothpaste might be a nice pink color, but what does it contribute to your dental health? Some dyes are even considered to be harmful to your overall health, so they should be avoided entirely. Look for toothpaste that doesn’t have any added dyes or colorings.
Finding the brand of toothpaste that is right for you is more than just a matter of taste; you want a toothpaste that isn’t going to have a negative impact on your health either. Contact your dentist if you want some recommendations for the best kinds of toothpaste out there on the market.
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