Should You Let Kids Brush Their Teeth With Natural Toothpaste?
Parents naturally want to protect their children. While many parents simply want to keep their kids safe and happy generally, some parents are also concerned with the chemicals and additives that their children are exposed to in everyday products, so they look for alternatives that are more organic and natural.
If you're concerned about the additives used in regular toothpastes and the effects they may have on your child, you may be considering using a natural toothpaste rather than a regular brand. What are the pros and cons of natural toothpastes for children?
The Upsides of Natural Toothpastes for Kids
Regular toothpastes can contain a lot of chemical additives. These additives typically make toothpastes act in certain ways or have certain effects. For example, the surfactant sodium lauryl sulphate helps give a toothpaste its consistency and the ability to foam in the mouth; fluoride is added to protect the teeth. These additives can be controversial, and some people believe that they are harmful to health.
Natural toothpastes typically don't contain these kinds of additives. If you're worried about your child being exposed to these kinds of potentially harmful substances, using a natural toothpaste may be a better option for you.
This may also be a good switch to make if your child doesn't like the taste or texture of regular toothpastes. For example, if your child doesn't like the way that toothpaste foams in the mouth, a natural toothpaste that doesn't foam up may make your child feel more comfortable about tooth brushing.
The Downsides of Natural Toothpastes for Kids
While some people consider fluoride to be harmful, this substance is still considered to be one of the most important cornerstones of dental health. Fluoride has proven beneficial effects against tooth decay; it strengthens, protects and remineralises the teeth. If you switch to using a natural toothpaste for your child that doesn't contain any fluoride, you may put them at a higher risk of developing decay and dental erosion.
Before switching your child to a natural toothpaste, it may be worth talking over the implications with your dentist. If your child simply can't tolerate a regular toothpaste and you don't have any issues with fluoride, your dentist may be able to suggest alternative products or ways to ensure that your child gets fluoride via other methods such as fluoride treatments. If fluoride is one of your main problems with regular toothpastes, your dentist may be able to recommend natural toothpastes that contain organic ingredients that can also help fight tooth decay such as xylitol.
