Consumed{Toothpaste}

Now that you’ve received your cool new bamboo toothbrush, maybe you’re starting to think about your toothpaste. That’s awesome! Let’s talk about it!

Like most everyone else, I trusted that what I was brushing my teeth with was safe. It turns out conventional toothpastes have a load of crap in them that are toxic to our bodies. Synthetic foaming agents (SLS), endocrine distrupers like triclosan, artificial dyes and fluoride are just a few of the known offenders. You may not think of brushing your teeth as an activity that makes you vulnerable to toxins but the fact of the matter is, your mouth is one of the most absorbent places in your entire body, so it’s easy for these toxins to make their way into your bloodstream.

Here’s some cold hard truth. Over the last 100 years, thousands of chemicals have been introduced into our society but there has been a substantial increase in the use of chemicals over the last 50 years. There has also been an increase in childhood brain cancer by 38%, asthma by 80%, leukemia in children by 74%, early onset puberty by 55%, ADHD by 53%, genital deformities in baby boys by 122%,  life threatening birth defects by 100%. Not to mention an increase of breast cancer in women AND men, autism and miscarriages/reproductive problems. A coincidence? I think not. Of course, it’s not just toothpaste to blame. We’re just getting started! I promise to show you more and more products you can get rid of if you ain’t into putting chemicals in your body! So don’t freak out. I will help you navigate through the toxic smog until you’re living in a nice clean bubble.

Let it be known that I’m a bit of a skeptic. I often question what people tell me and spend time reading about things before I bite. Therefore, I understand if some of you reading this would be slow to believe that any of these chemicals are actually REALLY bad for you. Industry does an amazing job at making it incredibly difficult to sort out the truth. But here’s what I undoubtedly know and you would be hard pressed to find an argument for. I don’t need these chemicals in my life and definitely not in my body. I don’t want them and I can choose to not have them. Even if you find a way to dispute me, the fact still remains that I don’t need artifical dyes, flavors, foaming agents and microbeads in my toothpaste to have a pearly white smile. I mean, the proof is right on my smiling face for you to look at with your very own eyes. Seeing is believing! Here’s the alternative that I found and love!

Don’t get sticker shock. Although after shipping and tax this product costs $14.52, it lasts a year! Yes, that means you can brush twice a day, for $1.21 a month, you’re producing less trash and you never have to remember to buy toothpaste. If you look at other more natural/chemical free toothpastes, it’s much cheaper in comparison. If you are happy with the toothpaste you already use, I would suggest using this once a week just for the whitening effects. A great alternative to crest whitening strips! It’s economical, detoxifying, whitening, non-toxic and made from the earth’s goodness. PLUS you look pretty hardcore when you brush your teeth.

Here is a list of the ingredients and what they do to HELP you, not hurt you like some toothpastes I know. *ahem* crest *cough*cough*colgate

Activated Charcoal: An antibacterial and antifungal powder that’s excellent for gum health and sensitive teeth. Charcoal powder has shown to absorb bacteria, toxins and heavy metals in the mouth. It helps counteract bad breath and cleans your teeth naturally for a brighter, healthier smile.

Bentonite Clay: Mild, natural abrasive that gently scrubs and polishes teeth, and binds to draw out toxins in the mouth.

Organic Orris Root Powder: Contains myristic acid, a known antibacterial agent, making the root powder especially effective in tooth pastes and powders.

Organic Myrrh Gum Powder: Contains highly antiseptic properties and is excellent for overall oral health; non-abrasive and helps to gently tone the gums.

Organic Hibiscus Petal Powder: Sweet-sour herb with astringent, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties; soothes and helps combat gum soreness and inflammation.

Organic Stevia Leaf Powder: Natural sweetener that complements the tartness of the Organic Hibiscus Powder without fostering bacteria that can lead to tooth decay.

Organic Peppermint, Cinnamon and/or Orange Essential Oils & Extracts: Provides antibacterial, antiseptic, and pain-relieving properties, and acts as excellent breath fresheners.

Safe for everyday use. RDA Index rating of 68.

True story about this tooth and gum powder. I’ve had weak enamel and prone to cavities ever since I was little. Most of the time when I go to the dentist, she tells me that I have watch spots (almost cavities) or a cavity. The visit I had before I started using this product, she told me I had a couple watch spots. I was using the tooth and gum powder for close to a year when it came time for another dreaded cleaning. Not only did I not have any cavities, I no longer had any watch spots! The technician even commented about what great shape my teeth and gums were in. Tooth and gum powder is magic.

Because I’m in favor of telling the whole truth, I will disclose that this tooth and gum powder is kinda messy. After all, it IS black so you need to rinse little black drops from your sink after you brush. Also, I transferred the contents of my jar into a travel size container like these…

That way I can aim the powder on my brush better without spilling a bunch. It will be a drastic change from a foamy, super minty conventional toothpaste, so give yourself some time to adjust before deciding if you like it or not. Not to worry about your breath! I have the spearmint kind and it does leave your mouth feeling fresh! Overall, it gives you the incentive to clean your sink more often, whiter teeth, fresh breath and healthier gums. If you decide to try it, tell me what you think! Maybe even send me a picture of your gnarly black mouth mid-brush.

*Added bonus if you live in MN. They’re local!

*Added bonus if you have kids. What kid wouldn’t find it fun to brush their teeth with something black?! It’s totally safe for wee ones and might actually get them to do it without a fight.