Shopping Guide: All The Natural Dental Products You Need For Healthy Gums And Teeth

When you're making the switch to natural products, it can seem overwhelming. Where do you start?

Well, I think that you start with the products that you use most often. And you use dental products twice a day, so that's a great place to start!

Think about toothpaste. You use it twice a day, every day. And yet toothpaste can be full of toxic ingredients. I wrote a post recently on what to look out for when you're shopping for natural toothpaste, so that's a good place to start.

But there are lots of other products that you use for good dental health.

Here’s what you’ll need for your new natural dental care regimen:

A new toothbrush

Your plastic toothbrush will end up sitting in landfill for hundreds of years. Replace it with one made from biodegradable bamboo or cornstarch. Eco friendly brushes are also better for you — they’re gentler on teeth and won’t hurt your gums.

Toothbrushes with activated charcoal bristles are also brilliant. They help remove plaque and prevent the growth of bacteria on the toothbrush itself.

For a deeper clean, you might want to try Dr. Tung's Ionic Toothbrush, which is clinically proven to remove more plaque than regular brushes. It also reduces gingivitis and hypersensitivity.

Tip: Did you know you’re not supposed to brush your teeth immediately after eating or drinking? According to this study, it’s best to wait at least 30 minutes.

Natural toothpaste

A good toothpaste is key to good oral health. But what if your toothpaste is doing more harm than good? Common toothpaste ingredients like triclosan, fluoride, propylene glycol, sodium lauryl sulphate, and parabens all have damaging effects on the body.

Instead of the usual supermarket brands, opt for natural toothpastes without synthetic foaming agents, artificial colours and preservatives, and other nasties. Grant’s and Dr Bronner's toothpastes use natural antibacterial ingredients and breath fresheners like peppermint, clove, neem, activated charcoal, and organic coconut oil instead.

Dental floss

Flossing can actually be fun and eco friendly. Noosa Basics’ bamboo fibre dental floss is infused with activated charcoal and lightly flavoured with essential oils. There’s also Dr. Tung’s “smart” floss, which removes up to 55% more plaque and comes in a biodegradable dispenser. I cringe whenever I see dental floss picks (so much plastic waste!), but these ones from Grin are fully biodegradable.

Tongue scraper

Tongue cleaning is an ancient dental care practice recommended by both Ayurvedic practitioners and modern scientists. It’s a fast and easy way of getting rid of the food buildup and bad bacteria that can cause bad breath, gingivitis, cavities, plaque, and other dental issues. Do this before you go to sleep and you’ll wake up with fresher smelling breath and a fur free tongue. Try Dr. Tung’s classic tongue scraper, which has comfort grip handles and is made of stainless steel. 

Alcohol free mouthwash

Most of the mouthwashes you see on store shelves contain a frightening amount of alcohol. Apart from the unpleasant burning sensation and the dryness it leaves, you really don’t want alcohol in your mouthwash because it may harm the strength and appearance of teeth. It has also been linked to oral cancer. Fortunately, there are tons of natural mouthwashes that remove plaque, freshen breath, and reduce gum inflammation - all without alcohol.

Non toxic teeth whitening product

Mainstream teeth whitening kits contain harmful chemicals like carbamide peroxide, which can erode enamel and cause sensitivity over time. If staining or yellowing is a problem, there’s loads of natural teeth whitening products to try. The most effective are based on ingredients like activated charcoal, bicarb, bentonite clay, and organic coconut oil.

Breath freshener

For sweet smelling breath when you're out and about, grab some natural breath freshener capsules or a bottle of mouth spray. They’ll leave your mouth feeling — and smelling — minty fresh in an instant!

VCO for oil pulling

Coconut oil (VCO = virgin coconut oil) is a popular choice for oil pulling not only because it tastes good, but because it’s high in lauric acid that kills bacteria and reduces inflammation. 

What are your biggest dental health challenges and what do you do to address them? Any natural dental care products you swear by? Share below!