By Health In Five Writer
Toothpaste is one of the elements which form an integral part of our everyday life. But there is a school of thought argues and questions on the very usability of a toothpaste (yes, it is not as vital as we assume it to be), the other, on the other hand, questions the harm that toothpaste can do to our teeth.
Given the increased importance that oral health has been getting these days, people are getting conscious of every little element related to the same – from the bristles of their toothbrush to the foaming that their toothpaste creates. While major developments in the oral healthcare have made the treatment(s) pain free, some basics still need to be worked upon, beginning with whether our toothpaste is the right medium to clean our teeth or not? The needs of the ever-evolving common man have led to modifications in the basic nature of toothpaste; from whitening to containing salt; toothpastes have come a long way in just helping one clean their teeth.
Excess of Fluoride
Fluoride in toothpastes in considered good for enamel and maintaining the strength of the teeth, the element can, at the same time, lead to death in case of excess consumption (as Sodium Fluoride) or diarrhoea at the least. Excess application of fluoride may lead to discoloration and crumbling of teeth. While Fluoride attracts Calcium, it also leads to an increased absorption of Aluminium in the brain, which can post a risk of Alzheimer’s. Excess fluoride can lead to a negative effect on the musculoskeletal and nervous systems, resulting in limited joint mobility, neurological deficits, muscular degeneration and ligament calcification.
Too much Foam
According to experts, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate is soap that has a creamy, thick texture, which when created, gives us a feeling of ‘cleanliness’. However, foam up to a limit is acceptable but just imagine if a simple foam can rid the foul feeling in your mouth, what damage must the same be causing to your sensitive gum tissues and bloody pulp.
Use of Silica
Silica, a type of chemical, is extremely harmful to our body and is clearly mentioned under ‘avoidable’ ingredients in any food items. However, ironically, hydrated silica is used by most toothpaste companies to polish our teeth and rub the yellowness away. Yes Silica is a whitening ingredient, often used in toothpastes that guarantee you instant whitening of the teeth.
Keeping Tartar under control
How many of us experience a slightly ‘burning’ sensation post our brushing routine? If you are one of the, chances are that you are using a toothpaste high on tetra-sodium pyrophosphate, an ingredient that is supposed to keep calcium phosphate salts (tartar or calculus) from solidifying on the back of your lower front teeth.
