Many conventional oral care products contain ingredients that may not align with a clean lifestyle. This guide highlights what to avoid and provides safer alternatives for mouthwash, toothpaste, floss, and toothbrushes.
Ingredients to Avoid
Fluoride: Often added to toothpaste, fluoride is avoided here in favor of nanohydroxyapatite, a cleaner alternative.
SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate & Sodium Laureth Sulfate): These petroleum-derived foaming agents may be contaminated with toxic byproducts such as 1,4 dioxane. They can also disrupt the skin barrier, dry hair, and alter natural pH balance.
Hydrogen Peroxide: Found in some mouthwashes, hydrogen peroxide may disrupt the natural oral microbiome and is best avoided.
Better Alternative: Xylitol, which supports the oral microbiome, is a good ingredient to look for in clean oral care products.
Mouthwash
Instead of peroxide-based rinses, try cleaner alternatives like:
Toothpaste
Choose pastes and powders made with clean, non-toxic ingredients. Some recommended options include:
- Periobiotic Silver Probiotic Toothpaste – available in-office
- Dentalcidin Oral Microbiome Toothpaste – available in-office
- Wellnesse
- Risewell – the only unflavored option, ideal for those sensitive to essential oils
- Primal Life Organics Tooth Powder
- David’s
- Vanman’s Tooth Powder
- Dr. Bronner’s
- Boka – choose mint or cinnamon (other flavors may contain sodium benzoate)
- Burt’s Bees – opt for fluoride-free varieties
- Jason’s – note that not all their products are clean
Dental Floss
Many commercial flosses are coated with PFAS to make them glide easily. Clean alternatives include:
Toothbrushes
Bamboo toothbrushes are often marketed as sustainable, but usually only the handles are bamboo. Brush with Bamboo makes brushes with bamboo bristles. However, the bristles can feel stiff and may not be comfortable for everyone.
By choosing products made with safer ingredients and clean formulations, you can build an oral care routine that supports your overall well-being while avoiding unnecessary chemicals.