In one of your recent trips to the grocery store, you’ve probably seen the increase in natural products. Natural deodorants, skincare, organic snacks, and even all natural oral hygiene products. While the idea of all-natural toothpastes, mouthwashes, etc. sound appealing, are they as effective as what we’re used to?
According to Dentistry Today,
“The global market for oral hygiene products such as toothbrushes, toothpastes, and mouth rinses will grow at a compound annual growth rate of 3.29% from 2018 to 2022, according to Research and Markets.”
So, the demand for more natural ingredients and products is definitely true, but do the products work as well as traditional products?
Read more: Natural Products Drive Oral Hygiene Market Growth
The main concern is fluoride. Many natural toothpastes do not contain the ingredient, which many dental experts say is essential to healthy teeth. Dr. Uchenna from Women’s Health Magazine, states that,
“natural toothpaste is not better than regular toothpaste. This all depends on what you mean by ‘natural’. Most commonly this is to do with fluoride and, if that is the case, I do not agree it is better.”
Dr. Eskander also told Women’s Health,
“Fluoride is a key ingredient to prevent cavities, which many natural toothpastes lack. Toothpaste is, I think, the best way to get your dose of fluoride which has been proven to be effective in preventing tooth decay. It works best topically and daily coating of the enamel is key. But, with toothpaste, you only need a pea sized amount, most people use too much. Don’t be fooled by false marketing. Fluoride is safe and effective when used properly.”
Read the article: Natural Toothpastes: Do they work? Dental Experts Weigh In
However, Dr. Eskander also notes that non-natural toothpastes can sometimes contain a harmful ingredient known as SLS. It is a skin-irritant and can get rid of your natural oils. She states that while she thinks it’s great that natural toothpastes are SLS free, she urges consumers to look at the ingredients closely and make sure there are not any added flavorings with sugar. While traditional toothpaste could use an overhaul, Dr. Eskander states, there isn’t the perfect natural toothpaste, just yet.
If you are using a natural toothpaste without fluoride, you could try introducing a fluoride mouthwash twice a day to add some fluoride into your oral health routine.
Related Article: Effectiveness of Herbal Oral Care
As mentioned, there is a growing trend towards a more holistic health approach. More people are straying away from using fluoride and other unnatural toxic materials, like mercury. This trend toward a more natural, whole-body approach to oral healthcare and hygiene represents a paradigm shift in dentistry. There is certainly value in looking at the whole patient, including lifestyle and diet, when developing a dental care relationship and treatment plan. However, it’s important that both patients and dentists communicate clearly. Ask your dentist to advise what treatments are supported by evidence and which may or may not be helping.
If you’re looking for natural options, check out these Natural Oral Hygiene Products from Allure Magazine’s Article, 9 Best Natural and Organic Toothpastes, according to dentists
Regardless of where you stand on toothpastes with fluoride vs. natural oral hygiene products, we can all agree on one thing … scheduling regular dental exams are important to the beauty and health of your smile.
While you may not think much of getting your teeth professionally cleaned and examined, the benefits are ginormous. Preventative dental appointments or regular dental cleanings and exams should be completed every six months and it’s the perfect opportunity for your dentist to inspect your mouth for any issues.
Issues including:
The best way to help oral health issues is early detection, so staying on top of your appointments is key to your oral health status. Not everyone stays on top of their oral health routines, hygiene habits, diet, etc., making it even more imperative for a checkup. Even if your dentist doesn’t find any issues, you’ll have peace of mind that your oral health is in good standing. A majority of people need a dental cleaning twice a year. Others who build up heavy stain and tartar or are battling gum disease need to have a teeth cleaned more often.
Related Article: Healthy Gums and Mouths Don’t Develop Gum Disease
Preventative dentistry is also commonly known as general dentistry. These dental services include your regular dental exams, cleanings, and x-rays. When you go to the dentist for your normal cleanings and visits, you’re dealing with preventative dentistry.
We offer:
This is because cleanings can prevent future oral health issues. With good preventive care, you can avoid costly and frustrating oral health issues in the future. So, it’s extremely important to see your dentist often for checkups. During checkups, dentists can also look for any signs and symptoms of serious oral health issues – providing a great defense and early detection.
Learn more about Preventative Dentistry and the oral care tips for a healthy smile.
Again, whether you choose natural oral hygiene products or stick with the oldies but goodies, scheduling your dental exam and cleaning with Dr. Caye and his team is imperative! When you think of a healthy smile, you envision a mouth full of bright, white teeth free of cavities and gum disease. If that is your vision and what you see when you look in the mirror each day, you know that your mouth has optimum health. As you know, a healthy smile often goes beyond just what we can see. That’s why it’s always important to see your dentist every 6 months for a dental cleaning and exam, so your dentist can check for all the signs of a healthy mouth.
Dr. Stephan Caye and his friendly, experienced team at Premier Dental offer affordable family dentistry and gentle dental care in the Lee’s Summit, MO area. Our office is conveniently located off of Highway 50 and SE Blue Parkway. We offer appointment times Monday through Friday to meet your needs. At Premier Dental, we provide most dental health services, from family and general dentistry to specialty procedures, including dental implants, dentures, endodontic or root canal therapy, teeth whitening, cosmetic dentistry, emergency dental care and much more. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Please call us at (816) 600-6330 to schedule an appointment.
