Offering our patients a biological approach to dental care means that I'm constantly evaluating new materials and dental products that claim to promote dental health and wellness.
Some of the most frequently asked questions by our patients are; "What's the best toothpaste to use?" and "What kind of mouth rinse do you recommend?"
After years of research, I can say with confidence that I've discovered several products that have gained my support. (I have no financial interest in these companies or products.) I like the predictable results that my patients have experienced over the years.
When it comes to toothpastes and oral antiseptics, I was looking for a simple, yet natural formula that avoided the use of chemical additives and other questionable ingredients that may affect your health. Accumulated over the last 8 years, I've put together four products that enhance each one's attributes in maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
After starting to use these products, my patients have expressed their gratitude for the impressive results that they've observed in their mouths. I've personally witnessed the improvement of compromised periodontal conditions, the elimination of halitosis (bad breath), and a general sense of well being of numerous patients' oral hygiene. All of the following products are made by The Dental Herb Company.
The first one is Antiseptic Tooth & Gum Tonic which is far more than a mouthwash. It's a valuable antimicrobial, oral rinse that contains natural herbs and essential oils that have been used for centuries to maintain healthy tissue. For the first time these botanical agents have been combined into a stimulating formula with ingredients that include: vegetable glycerin, extracts of Echinacea, pure essential oils of peppermint, red thyme, eucalyptus globulus and lavender. There is no alcohol, colored dyes, artificial chemicals, flavorings, preservatives, or sweeteners in this product.
The dense concentration of this Tonic makes it very cost effective, a small amount goes a long way. Using the Tonic with proper oral home care, combined with regular professional maintenance, is far less costly than complicated corrective treatments.
Tooth & Gum Paste is a unique toothpaste with the natural herbs and essentials oils found in the mouth rinse. It does not have any fluoride or sodium lauryl sulfate (a common foaming agent).
Under-The-Gum Irrigant is a potent antimicrobial formula used for more serious periodontal situations with the use of a Water Pik at home.
Tooth & Gum Spritz is a non aerosol, mouth spray that will freshen your breath for hours.
After reviewing these natural choices for tooth pastes and oral antiseptics, I compared these to the more "popular" commercial brands. The popular toothpaste and oral care products certainly appeal to our senses: if it smells good, tastes good and looks good it must be healthy for us too. Right?
Upon investigation, I came to the conclusion that consumers should read the labels more carefully before purchasing these products. They may think twice about what's best for their own health and well being. Even though small amounts of the chemicals shown below are used in these products, my concern is the bio-accumulation effect that may occur with chronic usage.
Along with the active ingredients of Eucalyptol, Menthol, Thymol and Methyl salicylate, you'll find the following: Alcohol ranging from 14.3% - 26.9%. The large percentage of alcohol can actually aggravate dry mouth and cause bad breath. Polysorbate 80, an emulsifier or lubricating agent, that may cause infertility. Sodium benzoate, type of salt, that may occur naturally in some foods but is more likely to be chemically produced and added as a preservative to foods or liquids. Poloxamer 407 which was reported in The Australian newspaper, November 18, 2006, that this common ingredient in toothpaste and mouthwash can cause high cholesterol. Artificial colorings and dyes are used to enhance the visual senses.
All of these products also contained a general warning: "In case of accidental ingestion, seek professional assistance or contact a Poison Control Center immediately." Sounds a little intimidating to me, what do you think?
I strongly believe the natural choices for toothpastes and oral antiseptics are safer to use and as effective, if not more so, as the more publicized brands. The more natural elements you expose your body to, the better off you'll be. Whatever you do today will certainly make an impact on your life tomorrow.
The products offered by Toothfully Yours are available only through your health care providers. If you would like more information, please contact our office for further assistance.
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