It may surprise you to learn that your mouth is home to over 700 different kinds of bacteria. But before you gag, they’re not all bad. In fact, this diverse range of bacteria is also called your “oral microbiome” and plays an important role in keeping you healthy. Changes to the balance of good bacteria in your mouth can cause common diseases like tooth decay, gum disease and more. Which is why keeping your mouth biome in good nick is so important.
While there are studies that encourage the use of toothpaste that contains fluoride as it helps to create a non-stick surface to prevent plaque from latching on to your teeth, there have also been articles that suggest fluoride can inhibit the growth of a number of oral microorganisms, thus limiting the diversity of your mouth biome. So if you’re wanting to delve into the world of fluoride-free or ‘natural’ toothpastes, we’ve found 11 that will support your oral microbiome.
Are natural toothpastes better?
It depends on your definition of what is considered better. ‘Natural’ toothpaste is a loose umbrella term that generally means it does not contain any nasties. Fluoride is not a nasty so while many natural toothpastes do not contain fluoride, you will find some in fact do.
While not true of all non-natural toothpastes, some may contain ingredients that can be harmful or cause irritations. Choosing a natural toothpaste may also be beneficial to younger children as kids may not properly spit out toothpaste.
Are natural toothpastes effective?
Absolutely. With the correct brushing technique, a natural toothpaste can be just as effective as for fresh breath and whiter teeth. However it’s important to remember fluoride is an essential ingredient in preventing cavities, so look out for natural toothpastes with fluoride-like alternatives or that have been fortified with the right amount of fluoride to strengthen your teeth.
The best overall natural toothpastes
Owned and made in Australia, this all-natural toothpaste features key ingredients like aloe vera to soothe the teeth and gums, and natural herbs and spices like rosemary, mint, cardamom and coriander to naturally freshen your breath and clean your teeth.
Loaded with 96% natural ingredients and without the use of parabens, this Hydroxyapatite formula contains prebiotic inulin and calcium to help maintain the good bacteria on your teeth and in your mouth. Plus the packaging is super cute!
Fluoride-free, vegan, cruelty-free and made from 70% organic materials, Dr. Bronner’s All-One Toothpaste is a great alternative to traditional pastes. It’s gentle on the teeth and doesn’t contain any synthetic detergent foaming agents while still cleaning your mouth, teeth, gums and tongue.
The best natural whitening toothpaste
The natural ingredients found in David’s help to fight plaque, freshen breath and whiten teeth without the need for fluoride or sulphates. With regular brushing, it helps to prevent tartar buildup while giving your mouth that clean feeling.
Found in every Instagrammable bathroom, Marvis’ cruelty and vegan formula (and not to mention the oh-so cool packaging) has help it to gain cult status. It gently removes stains, prevents tooth decay, tartar and plaque buildup.
This one actually does contain fluoride but it’s still considered a ‘natural’ toothpaste. It whitens your teeth without stripping the enamel, plus includes an oral probiotic to help balance your mouth’s natural microbiome, preventing the build-up of harmful bacteria.
This fluoride-free whitening toothpaste works hard with the help of cranberry extract, black tea and green tea to prevent cavities and give you that sparkling finish. It’s formulated with 10 antioxidants and essential oils to support your gum health while reducing plaque and cleaning the teeth.
The best natural strengthening toothpaste
Instead of fluoride, this natural toothpaste uses an alternative called Calcium Hydroxyapatite to help remineralise your teeth. What this means is when tiny scratches appear in your teeth, this will help to “fill in the cracks” before tooth decay and settle in.
Keep the bad bacteria at bay with Grin’s natural strengthening bacteria. It’s special formulation of Hydroxyapatite, organic sea salt and magnolia bark extract works to remineralise your teeth and keep your gums healthy without the need for fluoride.
Suffering from sensitive teeth? This one from Boka might be perfect for you. It’s specifically designed to give a gentle yet effective clean while remineralising to fortify your teeth enamel. Plus, it has a lovely mint flavour.
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