Why Choosing a Natural Toothpaste Will Give You Something to Smile About

The market for natural products has skyrocketed over the past few years. In response to the demand for healthier foods, body care products and household cleaning products, grocery stores across the country now have aisles dedicated to organic and natural products. What’s driving the change? One important reason is the increase in public information regarding the dangers of ingesting chemicals.

Unfortunately, more that 80,000 chemicals available in the U.S. have not been fully tested for their potential toxic effects on human health and the environment. Consequently, the effects of these chemicals are not fully understood. For example, triclosan is used in personal care products such as toothpaste, shampoo, soap and cosmetics for its ability to retard bacterial growth. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) continues to allow the use of triclosan, while it is actively engaged in a scientific and regulatory review of the chemical.1 In addition, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) currently regulates triclosan as a pesticide, and is only now staging a comprehensive review of the ongoing research of its adverse endocrine effects. If scientific evidence supports negative health consequences for human use, the EPA says it will change current regulations.2 The larger question is how long before we really know if it is safe to use.

Consumer demand continues to change the marketplace. Earlier this year, Johnson & Johnson became the first major manufacturer to remove chemicals such as formaldehyde, parabens, triclosan and phthalates from all baby products. Johnson & Johnson spokeswoman, Samantha Lucas, said the company needed to be “responsive to our consumers because it’s really about their peace of mind.”3

The peace of mind natural toothpaste provides

For consumers looking for the peace of mind that chemical-free products provide, an all natural toothpaste may be the right choice for several reasons:

Natural toothpaste is usually gentler on teeth and gums.

In addition to triclosan, many conventional types of toothpaste contain an additive known as Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), an inexpensive and effective foaming agent. Some medical studies have linked SLS to an increased risk of developing canker sores and to aggravated levels of gum disease. A study performed at the University of Oslo reported that symptoms of gum disease resolved 40 times faster when SLS-free toothpaste was used.4

Natural toothpaste can benefit people with challenging medical conditions.

Cancer patients frequently experience mouth sores from chemotherapy. This is caused by a decrease in the body’s ability to replace the cells of the mucous lining at a normal rate. Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetics are more susceptible than non-diabetics to developing serious gum disease that can lead to tooth loss, as are people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In all cases, the harsh additives found in conventional toothpastes exacerbate the conditions that make it more difficult for people living with these medical conditions to maintain optimal oral health.

Dental Herb Company’s Tooth & Gums Essentials Toothpaste® is a professional strength toothpaste formulated with green tea extract to gently clean teeth, reduce oral bacteria and freshen breath. Essentials Toothpaste is triclosan-free and SLS-free. Its precisely calculated proportions of pure essential oils work synergistically with alcohol-free extracts of organically grown herbs to reduce oral bacteria, promote healing and maintain healthy teeth and gums.

Dental Herb Company has a unique line of Truly Natural® oral care products, made from the highest quality essential oils and organic herbal extracts that work together to provide exceptional cleansing as well as therapeutic benefits. Our holistic approach to oral care is based on decades of research.

Herbs and their beneficial properties have been safely and effectively used in oral care for thousands of years. At Dental Herb Company we know how powerful botanicals are in minimizing harmful oral bacteria, combating bad breath, and promoting healthy teeth and gums. Using natural dental products is an easy way to minimize everyday exposure to toxins—and provide peace of mind.

References:

  1. “Triclosan: What Consumers Should Know.” Fda.gov. Food and Drug Administration, n.d. Web. <http://www.fda.gov/forconsumers/consumerupdates/ucm205999.htm>.
  2. “Triclosan Facts.” EPA.gov. Environmental Protection Agency, n.d. Web. <http://www.epa.gov/oppsrrd1/REDs/factsheets/triclosan_fs.htm>.
  3. Kay, Jane. “Johnson & Johnson Removes Some Chemicals from Baby Shampoo, Other Products.” Scientificamerican.com. Scientific American Mind, 6 May 2013. Web. <http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=johnson-and-johnson-removes-some-chemicals-from-baby-shampoo-other-products>.
  4. Herlofson, BB, and P. Barkvoll. “Desquamative Effect of Sodium Lauryl Sulfate on Oral Mucosa. A Preliminary Study.” Ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed. U.S. National Library of Medicine, n.d. Web. <http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7825393>.

The Connection Between Diabetes and Gum Disease

Diabetes mellitus is a group of diseases in which either the pancreas produces an inadequate amount of insulin (known as Type 1 diabetes) or cells do not respond to the insulin that is produced (Type 2 diabetes). The result for both types of diabetes is a high blood sugar level. According to the American Diabetes Association, a total of 25.8 million adults and children in the U.S. currently have diabetes, and the number is rising. In addition, it is estimated that 79 million people have a condition known as pre-diabetes.1 With diabetes or pre-diabetes affecting close to 105 million Americans, the scope of this disease is very large.

Good oral health is especially important for people living with diabetes because their ability to fight oral infections is compromised. Diabetics are more susceptible than non-diabetics to developing serious gum disease that can lead to tooth loss.  Research suggests the relationship between oral health and diabetes is cyclical. In addition to a higher susceptibility to oral problems, gum disease in diabetics can exacerbate the diabetes by adversely affecting blood glucose control.2

What you should know about diabetes and oral health problems

A variety of oral health problems are associated with diabetes. Diabetics frequently suffer from mouth ulcers, cavities, dry mouth and fungal infections. Gum disease may go undetected as it does not always cause pain. However, there are warning signs diabetics can watch for:

  • Red, puffy, or tender gums.
  • Gums that bleed during brushing or flossing.
  • Persistent bad breath.
  • Gums that are pulling away from the teeth.
  • Puss in between the gums and teeth.
  • Noticeable changes in the way teeth fit together when biting.
  • Shifting or loosening of permanent teeth.

Any of the above symptoms can indicate the presence of gum disease.  The best way to prevent the progression of gum disease is to visit a dentist as soon as any of these signs appear. Diabetics should make their dentists aware of their medical condition; the dentist will be better able to provide proper treatment and make recommendations for ongoing care. Dental checkups should occur at least once every six months to ensure optimal oral health.

How to maintain excellent oral health with diabetes

Maintaining proper blood glucose levels is necessary for a healthy mouth and for good overall health. Controlled blood glucose levels help to prevent harmful oral bacteria from thriving and wreaking havoc on gums and teeth. A few key components of a successful oral care routine are as follows:

  • Brush at least twice a day with antimicrobial toothpaste.
  • Floss daily, and/or use an oral irrigator.
  • Use an alcohol-free antimicrobial oral rinse.

Antimicrobial natural toothpastes and mouth rinses, especially those made with essential oils, are ideal options for those with diabetes and gum disease; they offer maximum efficacy in minimizing harmful bacteria, and the essential oils provide soothing and therapeutic benefits. In addition, alcohol-free oral rinses  help maintain the natural balance of saliva, which is highly beneficial for diabetics suffering from dry mouth.

Dental Herb Company makes all natural oral care products you can trust. The formulas contain pure essential oils and extracts of organically grown herbs, without chemicals or additives such as sodium lauryl sulfate and alcohol. Dental Herb Company’s proven, Truly Natural products are as gentle as they are powerful. When used in conjunction with treatment to stabilize blood glucose levels, healthy hygiene habits, and routine professional cleanings, these solutions help provide a sustainable line of defense in combating gum disease  in diabetics.

References:

  1. “Diabetes Statistics.” Diabetes.org. American Diabetes Association, n.d. Web. <http://www.diabetes.org/diabetes-basics/diabetes-statistics/>
  2. “Diabetes and Oral Health Problems.” Diabetes.org. American Diabetes Association, n.d. Web.

What is Sodium Lauryl Sulfate?

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is a common additive used in a variety of personal care products including toothpastes, shampoos and body washes, and in a variety of household products including laundry detergents, floor cleaners and engine degreasers. SLS, similar to soap, is used as a surfactant, detergent and emulsifier; in short, it is an inexpensive and effective foaming agent. Because many people associate foaming with effective cleaning, SLS is frequently added to cleaning and personal care products such as toothpaste. Chemical additives, whether found in food or in oral hygiene products, can have potentially adverse health effects. Toothpastes that contain SLS, for example, can produce irritation of the oral mucosa.

What makes SLS-free toothpaste an option worth your consideration?

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate has often been used in medical studies that test irritating agents. Some medical studies have linked SLS to an increased risk of developing canker sores, and questions have been raised about its potential to exacerbate gum disease. One study performed at the University of Oslo reported that symptoms of gum disease resolved 40 times faster when a sodium lauryl sulfate-free toothpaste was used.1 One possible connection between SLS and gum disease may be the ingredient’s saliva-decreasing effect. Adequate saliva is crucial to good oral health; too little saliva makes the mouth a breeding ground for bacteria that is harmful to teeth and oral tissue.

While evidence of the adverse effects of SLS is limited to studies where the amount of SLS exceeds the average consumer’s level of ingestion, some people are more sensitive to sodium lauryl sulfate than others. In small amounts, SLS will not generally cause health problems, however, it is unnecessarily harsh on the highly sensitive tissues of the mouth. The effects of long-term use of oral care products containing SLS have not been studied.

Dental Herb Company understands the importance of high-quality sodium lauryl sulfate free products in maintaining overall oral health. By using proven formulations of Truly Natural® ingredients, Dental Herb Company creates products that are not only effective, but gentle—and the results speak for themselves. Our 100% all natural oral care products include an SLS-free toothpaste and SLS-free mouth rinse. Our products are made from the highest quality pure essential oils and herbal extracts. We strongly believe in limiting one’s unnecessary exposure to chemicals through the use of holistic alternatives.

All Dental Herb Company products contain precisely calculated proportions of essential oils and botanicals for maximum therapeutic efficacy. We invite you try them for yourself and experience the refreshing taste and clean feeling in your mouth. For best results, combine Dental Herb Company products with regular flossing and professional dental hygiene maintenance. The goal of Dental Herb Company is simple: to provide people with effective, great-tasting, SLS-free products that they can feel good about using.

References:

  1. Herlofson, BB, and P. Barkvoll. “Desquamative Effect of Sodium Lauryl Sulfate on Oral Mucosa. A Preliminary Study.” Ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed. U.S. National Library of Medicine, n.d. Web. <http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7825393>.

Mouth Sores from Chemotherapy

The side effects of chemotherapy can be emotionally uncomfortable and physically draining. When it comes to oral care during chemotherapy, alcohol-free toothpaste and mouth rinse products from Dental Herb Company provide soothing relief from mouth sores, help rebuild damaged tissue, and create an inhospitable environment for bacterial growth. Oral sores from chemotherapy result from chemo’s efficacy in killing rapidly dividing cells throughout the body. While beneficial when it comes to destroying cancer cells, this process can wreak havoc on cells lining the mouth. Once cells are damaged and natural immunity is weakened, the risk of developing painful oral sores increases substantially.

Mouth sores from chemo can appear on any of the soft tissues that line the mouth, as well as on the lips, tongue and esophagus. In severe cases they can impair an individual’s ability to eat, talk, swallow and breathe. The good news is there are some simple steps patients can take to help avoid or relieve the discomfort of mouth sores.

How to Reduce The Risk of Developing Mouth Sores from Chemotherapy

Mouth sores from chemotherapy generally develop a few days after the start of treatment and disappear within a few weeks of stopping, but since chemo often lasts several months, it’s important for patients to boost and strengthen oral health as soon as possible. Reduce the risk of developing mouth sores before starting treatment by doing the following:

  • Visit the dentist to check your teeth and gums for potential issues that may worsen and/or cause pain during chemotherapy.
  • Develop an effective mouth care routine. Your dentist can recommend the right toothbrush, toothpaste,  and mouth rinse that will address a chemo patient’s special needs.
  • Avoid mouthwashes that contain alcohol; they will exacerbate oral irritation and further dry out the mucous membranes of the mouth.
  • Eat an antioxidant-rich diet (plenty of colorful fruits and vegetables) that will help to boost your immune system.
  • Quit smoking. It’s critical to good oral health under normal circumstances, and even more so during chemotherapy.

How to Treat Mouth Sores from Chemo During Treatment

If mouth sores erupt during chemotherapy, effective treatment for minimizing the pain includes:

  • Choose foods carefully. Limit the amount of alcohol consumed and avoid foods that are spicy, acidic, sharp, crunchy and overly hot or cold. Soft foods are easiest to eat and the most gentle on sensitive mouths.
  • Use topical painkillers and/or coating agents recommended by a doctor. These may be beneficial in numbing the intensity of mouth pain.

When it comes to treating mouth sores from chemo, choosing the right oral care products can help. Oral care products that are non-irritating and have excellent tissue building and antimicrobial properties can make a difference. The family of highly effective antimicrobial products from Dental Herb Company are formulated to rebuild and condition connective tissue and promote good oral health. These Truly Natural® solutions are made with precisely calculated proportions of pure essential oils that work synergistically with alcohol-free extracts of organically grown herbs to reduce oral bacteria and help maintain healthy teeth and gums—ideal for patients undergoing chemotherapy. Pure essential oil of lavender and vegetable glycerin, both of which are used in all our products, are particularly soothing agents for those suffering from painful mouth sores.

Truly Natural® Ingredients

Thyme

An essential oil that has powerful antiseptic properties.

The proven formula developed and used by Dental Herb Company is a combination of seven different essential oils that work together to enhance optimal oral health. Red Thyme has powerful antimicrobial and immunostimulating properties. Cinnamon Bark is an antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory agent. Lavender enhances circulation and tissue rebuilding. Peppermint encourages wound healing and reduces the temperature of infected and inflamed tissue. Eucalyptus assists in tissue conditioning, while echinacea helps to maintain the structure of the connective tissue. Lastly, gotu kola increases blood vessel formation within the connective tissues.

The choice of oral care products can make a difference for people who are undergoing chemotherapy and experiencing increased sensitivity and heightened susceptibility to infection and tissue damage in the mouth. Talk to your dentist about using Dental Herb Company’s products throughout the treatment process.

When looking for a gentle and effective toothpaste or mouth rinse before, during or following chemotherapy, consider Truly Natural® professional strength, alcohol-free products from Dental Herb Company, now available for purchase online.

The History of Oral Care: How Did Our Ancestors Try to Prevent Gum Disease?

Ever wonder when our ancestors began to brush their teeth or use toothpaste? Believe it or not, the toothbrush is one of the oldest devices still in use to this day, and it dates back to as early as 3000 B.C. Early Egyptians crafted devices from sticks and frayed the ends to rub against the teeth.1 This tool is the earliest recorded precursor of the toothbrush. Credit for the first “real” toothbrush, however, belongs to the Chinese. In the 1400s they used bamboo to craft the handles of brushes and attached a set of boar bristles for brushing the teeth.2

The popularity of this toothbrush spread to Europe where many Europeans chose to replace the overly abrasive boar bristles with softer horsehairs and even feathers.1 In 1780, the first modern toothbrush was created by William Addis.3 It featured swine bristles which were set through holes into a carved cattle bone handle and secured by wires. It wasn’t until 1938, when DuPont invented nylon, that the truly modern toothbrush as we know it was created.3 Rather than using natural bristles that were generally too harsh on sensitive gum tissue, this new synthetic material was soft, and therefore much gentler. Not only was it easier on the teeth and gums, it was a much more cost-effective option for mass production—especially in combination with plastic handles. By the 1950s, these toothbrushes became the new standard which, with relatively minor design refinements, remains in place today.

The Evolution of Toothpaste

Ancient Egyptians are credited with creating the very first forms of toothpaste. One was made with rock salt, mint, dried iris flowers and pepper crushed together into a powder that, when mixed with saliva, would clean and whiten teeth.2 Another documented tooth-cleaning powder was comprised of ashes from oxen hooves, myrrh, egg shells and pumice4. As unappetizing as these concoctions may sound, it is interesting to note that ancient Egyptians understood that effective tooth cleaning required abrasion.

The Romans and the Greeks used ingredients such as crushed bones and oyster shells in their tooth-cleaning powders. In an attempt to make their tooth-cleaning powders more palatable and more effective at combating bad breath, Romans added powdered bark and charcoal to their formulations.8 The Chinese and Indians were also creating tooth-cleaning powders at around 500 B.C. The Chinese added ginseng and herbal mints to their powders for flavor.9 Use of these tooth-cleaning powders continued until the 1800s when people began experimenting with new additives, such as soap10. In the 1850s, the first actual toothpaste was sold to consumers in jars. By 1873, it was mass-produced by Colgate.11

Today, there are seemingly endless varieties of toothpaste available to appeal to different consumer preferences while helping people to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. The array of toothpastes consumers can choose from is enough to make one’s head spin: sensitivity protection, cavity protection, tartar control, plaque control, gum defense, enamel protection, enamel repair, multi-protection, whitening power, night protection, and clinical-strength. Not only do the varieties offer specific purposes, they also come in different consistencies—pastes, gels, liquid gels and even paste/gel combinations. In addition, consumers must decide between varieties that boast the addition or omission of various ingredients. There are toothpastes with mouthwash, baking soda, or peroxide added. Many of these are formulated with alcohol and sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS). In 2011, there were 353 varieties of toothpaste offered by retailers12. So, when it comes to choosing something that plays such a crucial role in the treatment of gum disease,  how do we know what to choose?

Preventing Gum Disease in the 21st Century

For healthy teeth and gums, it is smart to choose an alcohol-free, SLS-free product that promotes exceptional oral health by minimizing gum disease-causing bacteria within the mouth. Preventing gum disease the natural way begins with oral care products made by Dental Herb Company. Using only the purest and highest-quality natural ingredients, Dental Herb Company products are effective in helping to prevent gum disease when combined with regular flossing and dental hygiene maintenance. These alcohol-free, Truly Natural® products are the smartest choice for healthy teeth and gums.

References:

  1. “History of Toothbrushes and Toothpastes.” Colgate.com. Colgate, 12 June 2006. Web. <http://www.colgate.com/app/CP/US/EN/OC/Information/Articles/Oral-and-Dental-Health-Basics/Oral-Hygiene/Brushing-and-Flossing/article/History-of-Toothbrushes-and-Toothpastes.cvsp>.
  2. Blain, Rebecca. “Dental Hygiene, an Ancient Practice – The History of the Toothbrush.”Ezinearticles.com. Ezine Articles, n.d. Web. <http://ezinearticles.com/?Dental-Hygiene,-an-Ancient-Practice—The-History-of-the-Toothbrush&id=18906>.
  3. “The Toothbrush: An Oral Hygiene History.” Dentistry.com. Futuredontics, Inc., n.d. Web. <http://www.dentistry.com/daily-dental-care/dental-hygiene/the-toothbrush-an-oral-hygiene-history>.
  4. Connelly, D.D.S., Thomas P. “The History of Toothpaste: From 5000 BC to the Present.”The Huffington Post. TheHuffingtonPost.com, 02 Sept. 2010. Web. <http://www.huffingtonpost.com/thomas-p-connelly-dds/mouth-health-the-history-_b_702332.html>.

How A Healthy Diet and Natural Toothpaste Team Up For Better Oral Health

Poor dietary choices deplete the body of vitamins and minerals, which are the foundation of overall well-being. Proper nutrition makes it possible for the body to create new tissue and heal wounds. Without these building blocks, the body breaks down healthy tissue and muscle in order to heal. In addition, good nutrition is imperative for the immune system to function properly and fight off infection. The mineral most likely to be deficient in the average diet is calcium, which is key to the health of bones and teeth. Without adequate calcium, the body will take it from non-vital areas such as the jawbone.1 Once the bones that are responsible for supporting teeth begin to weaken, the risk of developing periodontal disease increases substantially. Consequently,  protecting one’s oral health begins with improving one’s diet.

It is a common misconception that all oral bacteria are unhealthy. Between 500 to 1000 species of bacteria have been identified in the human mouth and there are between 100 and 200 varieties present in the mouth at all times. While some are harmful, most oral bacteria actually help to prevent disease.2 Gum disease is not caused by the mere presence of bacteria; it is caused by inflammation that accompanies rapidly breeding bacteria. While proper oral care and regular visits to the dentist are key steps in controlling bacterial growth, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is just as important in boosting your body’s ability to fight off all types of infection. Choosing organic foods over processed foods and choosing natural ingredients over chemical alternatives are healthy lifestyle choices. Likewise, choosing herbal toothpastes and mouth rinses with all natural ingredients rather than chemically based products with sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and other additives, is the healthiest choice you can make for your teeth and gums.

Improving Your Diet And Lifestyle Is Much Simpler Than You Might Think

If more people made lifestyle choices based on the philosophy of “you are what you eat”,  it is likely that the number of people living with heart disease, Type-2 diabetes, obesity and cancer would be significantly lower. We live in a fast-paced society that chooses convenience over quality. We eat fast food and frozen meals because it is quicker than taking the time to make meals from scratch. The problem with these convenient and cheap foods is that they are cheating us out of our health by offering us next-to-nothing when it comes to the nutrients that our bodies need to remain strong. A diet that is dominated by foods containing white flour, saturated fat, preservatives, additives, high fructose corn syrup, artificial sweeteners and residual pesticides could have a negative impact on our current and future health.

The human body is not designed to efficiently process chemically treated foods. Furthermore, our bodies absorb the chemicals found in many personal hygiene products, and after years of exposure to these toxins there can be adverse cumulative effects. Improving your health is easy with just a few simple steps:

  • Choose organic and locally-grown foods because these are grown without the use of pesticides or herbicides, and buying organic helps to support local farmers and economies.
  • Limit the amount of prepackaged and processed foods that you consume.
  • Exercise. Regular exercise lowers blood pressure, reduces cholesterol, reduces the amount of triglycerides in the bloodstream, reduces the risk of heart disease, stroke and Type-2 diabetes, and boosts immune function.
  • Choose natural health and beauty products, such as SLS free toothpaste and botanical shampoo and lotions to minimize the amount of chemicals that are absorbed into the body through the mouth and skin.
Truly Natural® Ingredients

Thyme

An essential oil that has powerful antiseptic properties.

A good place to start when it comes to taking control over your health is to use the Truly Natural gum care solutions from Dental Herb Company. These products contain no synthetic chemicals—just high quality pure essential oils and herbs such as red thyme, cinnamon bark, peppermint, lavender, eucalyptus, echinacea, gotu kola and green tea.

SLS Free Toothpaste: Another Holistic Choice for Better Oral Health

Dental Herb Company offers 100% all natural oral care products, including a natural toothpaste made from the highest quality pure essential oils and herbal extracts. Because all Dental Herb Company products contain precisely calculated proportions of these botanicals, they provide maximum therapeutic efficacy. We strongly believe in using holistic alternatives when it comes to oral care, not only because scientific studies have proven them to be efficacious in minimizing the presence of harmful bacteria and fighting bad breath, but because limiting one’s exposure to toxins is critical in ensuring good health. Dental Herb Company products, including our SLS-free Essentials toothpaste, are proven effective. Once you try them for yourself and experience the refreshing taste and clean feeling in your mouth, you won’t want to brush your teeth with anything else.

References:

  1. “How Calcium Works.” Calciumtherapy.com. Calcium Therapy Institute, n.d. Web. <http://www.calciumtherapy.com/how-calcium-works/>.
  2. Zimmer, Carl. “How Microbes Defend and Define Us.” The New York Times. The New York Times, 13 July 2010. Web. <http://www.nytimes.com/2010/07/13/science/13micro.html?pagewanted=all>.