Cold Remedies Shampoo & Conditioner Feminine Care & Nappies Skincare Vitamins Sun Protection See more Ethical Health and Beauty Categories See Toothpastes Ethical Comparisons Ethical Health – Toothpaste Having clean teeth is much more important for dental health reasons than for the sake of cosmetics. Toothpastes marketed on the basis of their visual effect, such as whitening and smokers’ products, should be approached with caution, as they can often contain abrasives. Alongside health worries about excessive fluoride ingestion, other ingredients to look out for are sodium lauryl sulphate and triclosan, both of which have been a source of recent controversy. Labelling Since fluoride toothpaste came onto the market in the 1970s, tooth decay rates have fallen by 75 per cent. However, there are associated health concerns. Over-exposure to fluoride can lead to fluorosis, with flu-like symptoms and possible links to future thyroid problems, so manufacturers warn against ingestion of toothpaste, particularly for children. However, the amount of fluoride in toothpaste has not been proven to pose a serious health risk, and the benefits of healthy teeth are usually thought to outweigh any potential problems. Readers concerned about their fluoride intake, particularly the 10 per cent of the British population who live in areas where the water is fluoridated, can choose fluoride-free toothpastes such as Green People, Kingfisher, Tom’s of Maine or the appropriate Weleda brand. Other ingredients Many toothpastes contain sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS), a synthetic foaming agent. Some experts have raised concerns about this ingredient, saying that it is a suspected gastro-intestinal or liver toxicant. Others point to the fact that it has been associated with recurrent mouth ulcers. It is also an industrial-strength detergent, so many people may want to think twice before putting it in their mouths. However, a small application for a short period followed by a thorough rinsing Toothpaste should be harmless for most people. For those with a recurring mouth ulcer problem, Green People and Weleda toothpastes are SLS-free. Triclosan (which may also be listed under CH 3635, Irgasan Ch 3635 or Ster-Zac) is an antibacterial agent which has caused controversy because it may increase the growth of superbugs, although it has not been shown to be dangerous for human health. All toothpastes list the active ingredients, so levels of triclosan and fluoride salts present in the paste should always be found on the packet. Toothpaste brands which contain triclosan include Colgate, Crest, Mentadent P, Sensodyne F and Macleans. Other brands marketing themselves as ‘antibacterial’ may also contain triclosan. Packaging Most toothpastes now come in plastic tubes, and several in pump dispensers. Some still come in the traditional aluminium tube. Tom’s of Maine says that its aluminium tube, lined with food-grade plastic, can be recycled along with aluminium cans. Kingfisher Natural Toothpaste is packed in boxes manufactured from recycled cardboard and its tubes are made from biodegradable cellulose. Ethical alternatives Dabur is an ayurvedic brand and made according to ancient Hindu principles. If you wish to join the 6 per cent of the population who don’t use toothpaste at all, experiment with sea salt, soot, chalk or bicarbonate of soda. See Toothpastes Ethical Comparisons Key Research Below you will find links to the key sections of our ethical research in Fashion: Did you find this research helpful? Please consider donating, and keep this website free. Cold Remedies Shampoo & Conditioner Skincare Feminine Care Soap Make-Up Sun Protection Nappies Toothpaste Pain Remedies Vitamins We have created ethical comparison rankings for the following brands, based on the activities of the company group (see above tables): Green People, Kingfisher, Tom’s of Maine, Weleda, Thursday Plantation, Sarakan, Nelson, Dabur, Pearl Drops, Arm & Hammer, Mentadent P, Colgate, Euthymol, Oral B, Crest, Aquafresh Disclosure: Some of the links above are affiliate links, meaning we earn commission if you click through and make a purchase. Placement and use of these links has no bearing in terms of the ethical scores that we give to a brand. All commission earned by The Good Shopping Guide is re-invested into the research carried out by The Ethical Company Organisation.
