Triclosan is an antibacterial composite in cleaners, soaps, body washes and oral hygiene products of all sorts. While triclosan combats gingivitis, some people argue it might have negative health ramifications. There is some evidence triclosan can alter liver health. Others argue this antibacterial composite might disturb thyroid function.
Abrasives help remove stains from the teeth. The initial abrasives were quite rough in texture. Today's abrasives are comparably gentle. They primarily consist of hydrated aluminum oxides, dehydrated silica gel and calcium carbonate.
Also known as SLS, sodium lauryl sulfate is in many oral hygiene products. Consisting of palm kernel oil and coconut oil, SLS sometimes faces critiques for its byproduct made during the manufacturing process.
Polyethylene glycol, known as PEG, is an organic alcohol used in the form of a humectant in oral hygiene products. Its purpose is to retain moisture and serve as a formula stabilizer. However, there is a downside to PEG in that it might contribute to the generation of unhealthy levels of a harmful agent known as dioxin.
Some oral hygiene products contain titanium dioxide. This is an inorganic compound that provides the beautiful white hue the eyes are immediately drawn to.
The abrasives, fluoride and other ingredients in common oral hygiene products clean, beautify and safeguard the teeth. However, these ingredients are not inherently pleasing to the taste buds. Flavoring ingredients are added to toothpaste to enhance the taste. Examples of such flavoring ingredients include sorbitol and saccharin. Thankfully, the vast majority of oral hygiene products do not contain sugar so they are unlikely to cause tooth decay.
In some cases, artificial sweeteners are added to bolster flavor or mask the taste of a particular ingredient. Also known as sugar substitutes, these sweeteners certainly make products taste that better. However, the artificial sweeteners have the potential to damage the body in ways scientists do not yet understand. When in doubt, it is always best to take the natural route.
Take a close look at the small print on the next oral hygiene product you pick up at the store. Give it a thorough read and you will likely find some of the ingredients detailed in this article. Compare and contrast the ingredients of different products to determine which are the most natural, which have the ingredients least likely to cause harm and so on.
Once you understand what you are putting in your mouth, you will have a heightened awareness of the healing process taking place in your mouth and feel that much better about the ingredients in question.
For more information or to schedule an appointment with Abbadent Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, request an appointment in our Dubuque dental office here: https://www.abbadent.com. Or call us at (563) 556-8388.
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