Our children's teeth are important and we all want to set them up for dental success. While toothpaste seems like something we shouldn't need to be concerned about, there is actually a lot to consider. Like any other product, we have to dive deeper into the ingredients to determine how safe a particular brand is. Yes, even toothpaste can contain harmful ingredients that we need to avoid.
So, what are those ingredients and why should we avoid them?
Fluoride: Yes, fluoride has been linked to thyroid problems and too much can cause problems in cognitive development. Because fluoride is also present in drinking water, one reason we use a water service, the risk of children ingesting too much fluoride is even greater. Too much fluoride can cause stained and pitted teeth and in some causes neurological and behavioral problems.
Artificial Dyes and Colors: We know, it's frustrating enough that we have to avoid these artificial ingredient in other products, but toothpaste too!! Not only are many of these ingredients derived from petroleum products, but they can also cause hyperactivity and hypersensitivity in children. We can all agree that those are things we don't want for our kids.
Synthetic Flavors: We know that those flavors may be fun and excite our kids, but they aren't good for our children or their teeth. Like many other products, these ingredients do not need to be spelled out on the label but bubble gum flavor doesn't sound natural to us. We'll pass on these chemicals.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS): While this ingredient makes us feel all warm and fuzzy, the foaming it provides isn't actually necessary. It is simply added so we feel like the toothpaste is working. It's just an unnecessary chemical that is best avoided. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate can also cause mouth sores and change how our taste buds work.
Titanium Dioxide: This is what makes toothpaste white. Titanium Dioxide can irritate the throat and has been linked to lung cancer in animals. There is also the potential for reproductive damage in humans. This is yet another harmful ingredient that is included with little purpose.
We know this is a lot to take in so we wouldn't leave you hanging without a suggested option. While it is difficult to find perfect options, we have loved Hello Toothpaste Tablets. Our favorite thing about them may just be the lack of mess. Our sinks use to be so gross, you know parents, and these make all the difference!
Speaking of teeth, Vitamin D3 and Vitamin K2 plays a crucial role in the healthy development of teeth. When we are deficient in Vitamin D, and many of us are, this can result in weaker teeth that are prone to cavities and chipping. In adults it can lead to gingivitis and periodontal disease as well. So, be sure that getting adequate Vitamin D3 and K2 is part of your daily routine. Both are available in our online store HERE.
Sources:
https://www.doctorpike.com/is-flouride-dangerous-to-childs-teeth?fbclid=IwAR0kB88rvYObsvrFYEU-p50eOAB8ErLkKbA_j0j1ijUKC14c4rLWJhkYI-U
https://nj.gov/health/eoh/rtkweb/documents/fs/1861.pdf?fbclid=IwAR38lQlitzC1koIyOqOyG-rl1w0Scob-vMkG4HYxIhAc7iaLQ8tunJxaxWY
https://www.verywellhealth.com/does-vitamin-d-influence-your-dental-health-4144768
