Everyone wants a bright, beautiful smile right? It is no wonder that toothpastes, toothbrushes, mouth rinses, and flavored dental floss have become a multi-million dollar industry. There are dental care products for designed specifically for children seniors, and those who have dental health problems. There are toothpastes that are supposed to help soothe gums, whiten teeth, eliminate bad breath, and lessen cold and heat sensitivities. There is usually an entire isle devoted to dental products in the most grocery or drug stores. But does there popularity and accessibility make them the best choice?

A large portion of dental products contain fluoride. Basically fluoride is a mineral that is added to dental products to help prevent tooth decay. This action is based upon observances made in the early 1900s. Residents of the southwestern states were consuming high levels of fluoride in their water supply and despite the fact that the fluoride caused them to have stained yellow and brown teeth; they had an unusually low level of tooth decay. This lead many to believe that fluoride was responsible for preventing decay, despite the fact that other possible factors were not evaluated.

The problem with this assumption and practice is that many modern day scientists and doctors believe that fluoride is meant to be topical only and is not healthy for us to ingest. As fluoride is already in our water, our cumulative exposure can be too great. If too much fluoride is consumed then fluorosis can occur. Dental fluorosis weakens the enamel of the teeth, makes them susceptible to stains and gives them a pitted appearance. Skeletal fluorosis weakens the bones and causes calcification of the ligaments. It is no wonder that and more and more natural health enthusiasts are choosing fluoride free dental products.

While taking holistic classes I read studies that fluoride in the water can also cause migraine headaches. Add this to the intake of fluoride in tooth care products could result in health issues.

Another concern is the presence of Sodium Lauryl Sulfate or SLS in toothpaste and mouth wash. SLS is what gives toothpaste its foaming ability and give the feeling of a nice cleaning but there is nothing nice about putting this chemical in your mouth. SLS has been known to be the cause of mouth ulcers and sores and in fact this occurrence is so common among immune suppressed people that cancer patients are urged not to use toothpaste with SLS. Research has also indicated that SLS may be damaging to the immune system as well.

To avoid excess fluoride and Sodium Lauryl Sulfate you may want to try more natural dental products. Many health food stores are now carrying a variety of fluoride free and SLS free toothpastes and mouthwashes. It is also extremely easy to make your own dental care products right in your won home from natural household ingredients. Here are a few natural dental recipes:

All Natural Toothpaste

3 tablespoons baking soda (the cleaner)
1 tablespoon salt (the abrasive)
1-2 drops stevia (the sweetener)
1 drop peppermint oil (optional)

Mix all of the dry ingredients in a bowl. Add water until the paste is desired the consistency. Store the mixture at room temperature in a tightly covered jar.

You can also buy toothbrushes made with natural handles and bristles if you want to go completely natural. Here is to your beautiful and natural smile!