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I recently started using toothpaste which is organic, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) free, and fluoride free. I don’t like it. When I brush my teeth I feel like the brush ’squeaks’ as I use it which sends shivers up my spine plus the muddy taste makes me want to vomit. I’ve been using it for a couple of weeks and I’m feeling slightly more used to it but I don’t think I would buy it again. So now I’m trying to decide if I should just look for a fluoride free toothpaste or maybe just stick to regular toothpaste. The advantages and disadvantages of each are listed below.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate

Sodium lauryl sulfate is included in products such as toothpaste and shampoos as it creates foam or lather which make them easier to use or at least feel nicer. Without SLS in toothpaste the toothbrush tends to rub against the teeth and it just doesn’t feel right. My teeth do feel clean after using a SLS free toothpaste but I don’t feel comfortable using it.

Many people are against using products which contain SLS because they believe it is linked to cancer but both the American Cancer Society and Health Canada report this to be false as mentioned by Urban Legends and Paula’s Choice. This isn’t to say there are no risks in using products which contain SLS as it can irritate the skin and can cause diarrhea if ingested. I don’t think I’m too concerned about using products with this chemical in it although I think I would avoid using them with young children.

Fluoride

Fluoride is a naturally occurring element which is used in toothpaste to help prevent and possibly reduce tooth decay. There is no question that fluoride is beneficial for the teeth so the only question is can it have negative effects on the health. Possible health problems associated with fluoride in toothpaste and water include various cancers, in particular bone cancer, and fluorosis.

There is no medical proof that fluoride causes cancer. This has been stated by a number of cancer organisations around the world as well as many government organisations. Dental fluorosis can be a problem with young children which is why it is recommended that they use low fluoride toothpaste. So for me I think I’ll keep using toothpaste with fluoride. I have enough problems with my teeth as it is, without needing to risk further cavities.

If you are really concerned about the level of fluoride in your diet then you should consider that tea is naturally high in fluoride. Again, I don’t think it’s anything to be concerned about and I wouldn’t believe the horror stories you might find on the internet. Everything in moderation, right?

Organic Toothpaste

There are some 100% organic toothpastes around but many only have as little as 10% organic ingredients. I think the concern is how much toothpaste is ingested over the many years of brushing the teeth. It could add up.

Personally I think I’ll sacrifice the organic product in this case as I’d like my dose of fluoride. I suppose if you drink a lot of tea and have fluoridated water then you may be happy to forego the fluoride in your toothpaste but I’m not sure your dentist would recommend it.

Click here for a list of online stores selling natural and organic toothpaste.

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