Best Natural Toothpaste: Healthy and Easy DIY

Best Natural Toothpaste: Healthy and Easy DIY

Natural toothpaste is gaining popularity as people become more conscious of the harsh chemicals found in conventional toothpaste brands. Many of these ingredients, like artificial sweeteners, synthetic ingredients, and fluoride, may not be the best for long-term oral health. As a mom of five, I want to make sure the products we use at home are safe and effective, which is why I’ve switched to using a fluoride-free toothpaste I make with natural ingredients. It’s been a game changer for our family! Not only does this DIY recipe keep our teeth clean and strong, but it also avoids the unnecessary additives that can lead to tooth decay and other health issues over time.

By making my own toothpaste, I know exactly what’s going into it, and it’s a great way to support healthy teeth and good oral hygiene. Plus, it’s so simple to make at home using just a few natural ingredients. In this post, I’ll share with you why I made the switch and how you can make your own natural toothpaste that’s both healthy and effective.

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The Importance of Oral Health

As both a mom and a Registered Nurse, I know how crucial it is to maintain healthy teeth for our overall well-being. Good oral hygiene isn’t just about having a nice smile—it’s directly linked to our overall health. That’s why I’m always on the lookout for ways to support my family’s oral health naturally.

After researching the ingredients found in many conventional toothpastes, I decided to switch to natural options like DIY toothpaste with plant-based ingredients. These types of organic toothpaste allow us to avoid toxic chemicals while still supporting cavity prevention and strengthening tooth enamel. It’s important to me to use products that are gentle but effective, especially for my five kids!

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Transition to Natural Toothpaste Alternatives

Switching to natural toothpaste alternatives is simpler than most people think. It offers the best of both worlds—effective cleaning without the worry of unnecessary additives like artificial flavors and artificial colors that are often present in fluoride toothpaste. By making your own, you get full control over what’s going into your toothpaste, ensuring it contains beneficial natural mineral compounds and key ingredients that help fight tooth decay.

In my experience, making this switch has been a huge step toward a healthier routine for my family. It’s reassuring to know that every ingredient we use is safe, effective, and natural.

Conventional Ingredients to Avoid

As a mom and a Registered Nurse, I always strive to make the best choices for my family’s health. After learning about some of the ingredients commonly found in regular toothpaste, I knew I had to make a switch. Here are a few ingredients that I prefer to avoid, especially when considering my children’s health.

Fluoride

Although fluoride toothpaste is recommended by the American Dental Association for preventing tooth decay, there’s growing concern about the potential risks of fluoride use, particularly its classification as a neurotoxin. In fact, several countries, including Germany, Austria, and Japan, have banned the use of fluoride in water due to health concerns. Studies, such as a 2019 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), have raised concerns about fluoride’s impact on children’s developing brains, linking high fluoride exposure to lower IQ levels.

Given the ongoing debate about fluoride’s safety, I’ve chosen to go the fluoride-free route for my family, opting for natural ingredients that provide cavity prevention without the potential risks associated with fluoride exposure. It’s comforting to know I’m making a safer choice for my kids’ long-term health.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)

Sodium lauryl sulfate is a common ingredient in many toothpaste brands, responsible for creating the foamy texture we’re used to. But did you know that SLS can irritate sensitive teeth and even trigger canker sores? It can also disrupt the mouth’s natural foam processes. As a mom with little ones who sometimes struggle with mouth sensitivities, I’ve found that avoiding SLS makes a big difference in keeping their mouths comfortable and healthy.

Artificial Sweeteners & Colors

I’ve always been concerned about the use of artificial sweeteners and artificial colors in food, so finding out they’re also in conventional toothpaste brands was unsettling. Ingredients like saccharin and even so-called natural sweeteners like organic erythritol can be harmful in large quantities, affecting taste buds and potentially contributing to health issues. By switching to organic ingredients, I can feel confident that my kids are brushing their teeth with something safe and natural, without exposing them to unnecessary toxic chemicals.

Triclosan

This is another ingredient I try to avoid. Triclosan has been used in some toothpastes for its antibacterial properties, but it has been linked to hormone disruption and even environmental damage. For my family, choosing natural products that don’t contain triclosan is a safer option. It’s one of the many reasons I’ve embraced natural oral care products.

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Key Ingredients to Look For

Baking Soda (Sodium Bicarbonate)

This gentle cleanser helps prevent the buildup of plaque-fighting bacteria and effectively cleans your teeth without the use of harsh chemicals.

Calcium Carbonate

A natural form of calcium, this ingredient helps to remineralize tooth enamel and support stronger teeth, making it a must-have for natural toothpaste.

Xylitol

This natural sweetener not only enhances flavor but also fights bacteria that can cause tooth decay and bad breath.

Fractionated Coconut Oil

Rich in nutrient-rich coconut water and natural antimicrobial benefits, this ingredient helps clean teeth while nourishing your mouth and gums.

Essential Oils (Peppermint & Clove)

For a burst of fresh breath, these essential oils also support healthy gums and reduce inflammation. Peppermint (Mentha piperita) offers a refreshing, pleasant flavor that’s a favorite in natural toothpaste recipes.

Trace Minerals Liquid

This ingredient improves oral health by supporting the remineralization of tooth enamel, helping you maintain healthy teeth naturally.

Why DIY?

Control Over Ingredients

Making your own toothpaste lets you avoid the harmful chemicals often found in store-bought brands. You have the freedom to choose natural, organic ingredients that are safer for your family and promote better oral health.

Flavor and Texture Customization

DIY toothpaste allows you to experiment with different flavor combinations and adjust the texture to your personal preference. Whether you prefer a smoother consistency or something more abrasive, you’re in control.

Ethical and Organic

This DIY recipe is free from animal testing and focuses on using organic ingredients, ensuring a product that’s not only effective but also aligned with your ethical values.

DIY Natural Toothpaste Recipe

​Equipment

• 1 air tight container
• 1 small mixing bowl
• 1 whisk

Ingredients:

• 5 tablespoons calcium carbonate (for remineralizing and strengthening tooth enamel)
• 3 tablespoons xylitol (for natural sweetness and cavity prevention)
• 2 tablespoons baking soda (sodium bicarbonate for gentle cleaning and plaque removal)
• 4 tablespoons fractionated coconut oil (for antimicrobial properties and smooth texture)
• 15 drops peppermint essential oil (for fresh breath and a refreshing flavor)
• 5 drops clove essential oil (to support gum health and reduce inflammation)
• 1 teaspoon trace minerals liquid (optional, for additional demineralization)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, combine the calcium carbonate, xylitol, and baking soda.
2. In a separate bowl, mix the fractionated coconut oil with the peppermint and clove essential oils until fully blended.
3. Add the fractionated coconut oil and essential oils mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until you reach a smooth, paste-like consistency.
4. (Optional) Stir in the trace minerals liquid for extra enamel support.
5. Transfer the mixture to a small container with a lid for easy storage.

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Note: You can use regular coconut oil instead of fractionated coconut oil, but be aware that it will need to be melted before mixing. Regular coconut oil can cause the toothpaste to harden and become crumbly over time. For a smoother, more consistent texture, fractionated coconut oil is recommended.

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Directions for Use

To use, apply a small amount to your toothbrush and brush as normal. Enjoy clean, fresh teeth with this natural, DIY toothpaste!

Benefits of Homemade Toothpaste

Cost-Effective

Making your own toothpaste is a budget-friendly alternative to conventional and some organic toothpaste options. By using minimal active ingredients like sea salt, natural mineral additives, and fractionated coconut oil, you can save money while still achieving great oral health benefits.

Customizable

One of the best things about DIY toothpaste is its versatility. You can adjust the texture with ingredients like organic coconut flour or xanthan gum, and even add natural foam boosters like cocamidopropyl betaine if you prefer. Feel free to experiment with soothing additions like chamomile flower or unique flavor combinations such as citrus limon or peel oil to create a toothpaste that’s tailored to your family’s needs and preferences.

Safe for the Whole Family

This homemade toothpaste recipe, using organic ingredients, is gentle and safe for both young children and adults. It avoids the risks associated with artificial sweeteners and toxic chemicals, making it a wholesome choice for your family’s oral care routine.

Final Thoughts

Encouragement to Switch to Natural

Transitioning to natural toothpaste alternatives, like this easy DIY recipe, is a fantastic way to embrace a healthier, chemical-free lifestyle. It’s not only effective in supporting healthy teeth and promoting good oral hygiene, but it also helps you avoid the toxic ingredients often found in most fluoride toothpaste.

Give it a Try!

I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share your experience with others. There are many wonderful natural options available, and experimenting with a recipe like this can lead to the best results for your family’s oral health. Don’t forget to check out the natural oral care products I offer to further support your journey to a healthier smile!

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