Unveiling the Hidden Dangers in Toothpaste:

The majority of consumers purchase personal hygiene product without reading the list of ingredients, instead they put their trust into the clever marketing of these products.  One heavily marketed consumer product that contains multiple dangerous ingredients is toothpaste.  Yes that’s right…toothpaste!

What is shocking to me is that with the following list of toxic ingredients in toothpaste, the FDA and American Dental Association (ADA) continue to promote it as being healthy and safe.  So, for this blog I am going to list the ingredients that are toxic and let you as the reader decide on whether it is in your health’s best interest to continue using the toothpastes containing these harmful ingredients.

Toxic Ingredients in Toothpaste:

Sodium Fluoride: The truth behind fluoride is that it is a toxin, just read the warning signs on your toothpaste.  It says “if ingested call poison control.”  Sodium fluoride is a by-product of aluminum manufacturing and can be found in pesticides.  Finally, fluoride can no longer keep its claim as preventing tooth decay, rather research has proven that decreasing acidity in the mouth prevents tooth decay.

Triclosan:  Is most often found in in anti-bacterial products, however Triclosan can be found in certain mainstream brands of toothpaste.  It is considered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as a pesticide and harmful to humans and the environment.  It is a potential cancer causing toxin due to its chemical nature.

Propylene Glycol: Is used as a surfactant “wetting” agent in toothpaste.  The safety data sheets on this toxin states that it can be rapidly absorbed through the skin, and long exposure can lead to brain, liver and kidney dysfunction.  Interestingly, this chemical cannot be handled without precautions of wearing rubber gloves, yet it is placed in the majority of toothpastes on the shelf.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate:  Is an ingredient in many hygiene products as a detergent and cleansing agent.  It has various health risks, which include damage to the eyes, irritate skin, and lead to difficulty with breathing.  The American College of Toxicology reports that it can stay in the body up to 5 days, leading to accumulation in the heart, liver, lungs, and brain.  When combined with other chemicals in the body, it transforms into a powerful carcinogen which is cancer-causing.

In order to avoid these toxic substances, take a minute to review the labels on the products you purchase.  Also, when it comes to toothpaste; avoid these substances by purchasing toothpaste containing natural ingredients including Xylitol.

My Inland Empire Biological Cosmetic dental office utilizes the best in technology when safely removing mercury fillings along with safe dental materials to ensure that your health is not compromised during dental treatment.  Please visit our health conscious dental office at (951)686-3666 to take care of your dental needs.