On a daily basis, most of us expose ourselves to potentialy
harmful chemicals in the products we use. Toothpaste and
mouthwashes are no exception.
Have you ever considered exactly what is in the
toothpaste/mouthwash you use? And bear in mind, anything
nasty that goes into the mouth is very quickly absorbed into
the blood stream.These are the potential harmful ingredients
that can be found in certain brands of oral hygiene.
Alcohol is found in mouthwashes.
Laureth (ethoxylated), or PEG in toothpaste.
Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES),
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) in mouthwashes, toothpastes,
Sodium Fluoride in toothpastes and tap water.
If you’re wondering where you can buy safe oral hygiene
products, we sourced some products that have been
designed deliberately to avoid some or all of the above
chemicals.
Forever Bright Aloe Vera Toothgel contains aloe vera and bee propolis which soothes the mouth and gums with its antibacterial action. The gel fights plaque and whitens teeth without bleaching agents. It doesn’t contain fluoride has a great minty taste in a non abrasive formula. Great for kids and adults, suitable for vegetarians - Cost £5.57. Available from www.forevershopnow.com
Good-Gums is a dental powder made from herbs and minerals that has been formulated to optimize gum health. Ingredients include baking soda, french grey sea salt, vitamin C with bioflavanoids, myrrh, peppermint, tea tree, cinnamon and cranberry. In addition, Good-Gums contain no preservatives, is not tested on animals and contains no artificial colours or flavours, no harsh abrasives and no fluoride. £14.95 for approx 2½ month’s supply www.healthy.co.uk.
Pure Beginnings – berry toothpaste is exactly that, fluoride-free toothpaste designed for children of all ages and is suitable for babies. It is safe to swallow, and has a fantastic natural raspberry flavour. Free from petrochemicals, parabens, synthetic fragrances, colourants or sulphated surfactants. It contains certified organic ingredients. Available at John Lewis store or on-line; johnlewis.com.
Green People, mandarin and aloe vera toothpaste is made without Fluoride, SLS, Triclosan, Sorbitol, Parabens, phthalates, artificial sweeteners, petrochemicals and colourants to bring you the purest children's toothpaste that nature can offer. Green People use safe and natural ingredients in their all their toothpastes using essential oils, Vitamin C and Myrrh to deliver protection against bacterial growth, and aloe vera also soothes any tenderness in the gum area. £3.50 for 50 ml. www.greenpeople.co.uk/organic-toothpaste
Lush’s latest revolutionary invention, Toothy Tabs, are solid tabs that come in a recycleable handy box. Simply pop one in your mouth, crush it a little brush as normal with your toothbrush. Lush use beautiful ingredients such as essential oils and fine spices - unique in the world of toothpastes. A mild base of sodium bicarbonate and cream of tartar creates a foaming effect, which helps dissolve the bacterial build up on your teeth. http://www.lush.co.uk/shop/From £2.00.
Napiers Marigold Mouthwash contains a blend of soothing and antiseptic, antibacterial herbs - calendula (marigold), myrrh, golden seal, tea tree, chamomile and grapefruit - for fresh, breath and a healthy mouth. Diluted in 2 parts water, it is really helpful in maintaining oral health and avoiding mouth ulcers, sores from ill fitting dentures and infections in the mouth such as thrush. £10.00 100ml. http://shop.napiers.net/marigold-mouth-wash-
Gengigel is a natural mouth and gum care product with hyaluronan as the principal ingredient. Hyaluronan exists naturally in the human body and assists with tissue regeneration and promotes natural healing.Gengigel is completely natural, with no side effects or contraindications. Available from all good health stores from £4.96 in a mouthrinse or gel. www.modernherbals.com
Vesatile Citricidal Liquid Grapefruit seed extract is a natural cleanser. It acts as a great natural mouthwash to freshen and cleanse your mouth and teeth. Citricidal can also be used as a facial and nail cleanser, skin rinse and household cleanser. Ideal for travelling.
. RRPs: £8.70 (45ml); £16.80 (100ml) Not for citrus allergy sufferers. Never use undiluted
Available at www.highernature.co.uk and all good independent health stores.
Dr. Bronner’s - with 18 uses from 1 bottle of liquid soap at £4.99 per 236ml bottle has to be excellent value. This completely natural soap is all things to all men, and the Peppermint, Lavender, and Eucalyptus varieties are ideal for cleaning teeth, and ideal for travelling.
They contain no synthetic foaming agents, thickeners, preservatives, fragrances, dyes or whiteners. For stockists go to www.kinetic4health.co.uk
Last but not least - Monte Bianco, an innovative yet simple eco-friendly toothbrush. The Monte Bianco toothbrush allows you to change your toothbrush every three months – as dentists recommend. With the unique Monte Bianco design only the toothbrush head needs replacing; the handle can be kept and will last up to 10 years, discouraging unnecessary land fill waste. As soon as the bristles (made from natural fibres) have worn out, a replacement head can be clipped securely onto the original handle – it is as easy as that!
Available from www.pravera.co.uk at £2.95, replacement heads are £3.95 for a pack of 3.
