Ideal Bite

What's your taste in toothpaste?

08.29.2006

Submitted by idealbite on Tue, 08/29/2006 - 5:00pm.

The Bite:

If you're gonna put something in your mouth, it better taste and feel good. So - next time you brush, think about what's in your toothpaste tube, swish, spit, then switch to an all-natural option.

The Benefits:

Give good grin without the chems found in traditional toothpastes. Avoid the ingredient triclosan (an antibacterial), which may be an immunohazard. Choose silica, bamboo or calcium carbonate for whitening and zinc citrate to avoid tartar and gingivitis.
Avoid mouth ulcers. Scandinavian researchers found that using sodium laureth/lauryl sulfate-free toothpaste led to a 60-70% decrease in canker sores.
Down the hatch. Worry less about accidental swallowing.
Natural versions are biodegradable and often use recycled packaging. By using recycled cartons, Tom's of Maine saves more than 375,000 lbs of solid waste per year.

Personally Speaking:

When Heather and Jen visit each other, you won't find them sharing toothpaste. Heather LOVES Tom's of Maine's Antiplaque plus Whitening. Jen - not so much - she's into TheraNeem Herbal Toothpaste (which Heather won't use 'cuz it's green-colored). Try 'em for yourself and sound off in the Great Toothpaste Showdown in the blog.

Wanna Try:

Note: many natural toothpastes don't contain fluoride. If that's a concern for you, just check the label.

Tom's of Maine's Antiplaque plus Whitening Gel - "it's so minty it burns," says Heather. Does contain SLS ($7).
TheraNeem Herbal Toothpaste - use for a total KO against morning breath. Made from the Indian wonder herb, neem ($7).
Vita-Myr - its main ingredient's gum-healing powers are a myrrh-icle. Ahem ($7).
JASON Healthy Mouth - are you single and ready to mingle? This paste'll keep your breath fresh all night long ($6).
Ideal Bite's Recycled Toothbrush Tip - not as gross as it sounds.