Dentists recommend brushing your teeth twice a day to ensure good oral hygiene. It is hard to imagine that a product we use daily can contain harmful ingredients.
There are certain elements you should steer clear of when choosing toothpaste. Here is a list of four such ingredients that you need to be aware of:
Triclosan
Triclosan is a common component present in toothpaste, bodywash, soaps, and cosmetics. The Food and Drug Regulatory Authority (FDA) has approved its use because there is insufficient evidence against it. However, Triclosan may have some harmful effects, such as causing bacterial resistance to antibiotics. Some studies also suggest that it can result in food allergies.
Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS)
SLS can lead to skin irritation and aggravate aphthous ulcers. According to a study conducted by the Department of Oral Surgery and Oral Medicine, using SLS-based toothpaste over a 3-month period increased ulcers in patients. SLS can cause irritation in the gums and aggravate ulcer symptoms for those who are already suffering from them.
Microbeads
Microbeads are small plastic beads present in some toothpaste for improved scrubbing power. They are usually non-toxic and pass out of your system smoothly. However, when they make their way to the water system, they can combine with toxins such as pesticide chemicals and can harm fish if they ingest them.
Propylene Glycol
Propylene glycol is used to elongate a product's shelf life, look, and texture. If consumed in large quantities, it can damage the central nervous system, heart, and liver. For people already suffering from liver or kidney issues, the effects can be more serious as the system may not be able to break the chemical down.
With the right brushing technique, toothpaste effectively prevents tooth decay and gum disease. At Boones Landing Dental Center, Dr. Margaret Boone and Dr. Boone are here to give you the best advice. Schedule an appointment with us by calling us at (503) 601-0610 today.
Dentists recommend brushing your teeth twice a day to ensure good oral hygiene. It is hard to imagine that a product we use daily can contain harmful ingredients.