Ayurvedic vs Regular Toothpaste: Which is Good for Oral Health?

Washing your teeth day and night with regular toothpaste might refresh your mouth. But did you ever stop to consider what those crystals are? Some studies define them as abrasives in the form of silica, carbonate, or magnesium compounds. 

Some regular toothpastes have these crystals that whiten your teeth. However, excessive abrasion can lead to damaging impacts on your teeth health. So, here’s a better alternative: the Ayurvedic toothpaste. And this post presents the notable differences between Ayurvedic toothpaste vs regular toothpaste.

How Is Ayurvedic Toothpaste Better than Regular Ones?

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Typically, Ayurveda considers vata, kapha, and pitta the fundamental doshas governing the physiology of a human being. They are present in the mouth for performing and maintaining good oral health. Bodhaka kapha is the subdosha of kapha that moistens the mucus membranes in the mount.

In layman’s language, it’s saliva that initiates digestion. What bodhaka kapha does is prevent cavity formation and mitigate the negative impact of acidic foods on teeth. Since organic toothpaste comprises natural ingredients like neem, tulsi, aloe vera, and so on, it can better combat tooth decay and cavities. 

The fact that people are more concerned about natural ingredients makes Ayurvedic toothpaste a go-to solution over regular counterparts. The best part of using such a toothpaste is that it does not come with chemical ingredients. But what makes regular toothpaste a thing of the past? Let’s delve into the following points to learn further:

Reasons Behind the Fading Prominence of Regular Toothpastes

People these days look for a holistic dental solution. So, they have started embracing organic formulations infused with natural ingredients. That’s where the importance of Ayurvedic toothpaste gets noticed. We have presented a compiled list of reasons why most people no longer find regular toothpaste as useful as the herbal counterparts:

1. Cleans More Effectively

Herbal toothpaste cleans the teeth with the help of natural ingredients. Propolis found in them is the resin-like material made by the honey bees. This prevents cavities, combats gingivitis, and eliminates bacteria and fungi. 

2. No Chemical Ingredients

A product that maintains your oral health like toothpaste should not have a chemical ingredient. If it does, it may damage your teeth or gums. Regular toothpaste may have the following ingredients that can affect your oral health in general: 

3. Propylene Glycol

No doubt, propylene glycol can improve the product’s texture, appearance, and shelf-life. However excessive amount of this ingredient may damage your liver, heart, and even CNS (central nervous system).

3. Triclosan

Although Triclosan has been found to cause cancer in lab tests, it is still used by some toothpaste brands. As per research, this ingredient in high doses can decrease the thyroid level. Note that triclosan is a pesticide and is used as the antibacterial agent in toothpaste. It claims to fight gingivitis and plaque. But again, it’s a chemical that may damage your enamel.

4. Fluoride

Fluoride is believed to be a useful ingredient that strengthens teeth and prevents tooth decay. But there are risks associated with it like permanent discolouration of your teeth, stomach issues, and more. 

5. Sodium Lauryl Sulphate

These surfactants are used in industrial cleaners and toothpaste. They are the reason you’re your regular toothpaste form a foaming lather while brushing. If you think the foam is what cleans your teeth, you need to give serious thought to this. This foam can cause irritation, especially to the ones with mouth sores. 

6. Artificial Sweeteners 

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They are Saccharin and aspartame. While saccharin is the petroleum-based substitute, Aspartame makes the product sweet. The former one is the sugar produced in the lab. But aspartame can sweeten the taste more to offer a decent after-taste. Both these ingredients are harmful to your teeth and gums.

7. Polyethylene

Polyethylene is the reason why your toothpaste looks so bright and colourful. They comprise microbeads that can stick to your gums and tap bacteria. This, in turn, causes sensitivity and inflammation. 

8. Parabens

In skincare and hair care therapies, parabens are harmful. But if you consider dental health, these might not damage your teeth. However, if you have kids at home who tend to swallow a small amount of the product while brushing, this ingredient may damage their internal organs. Studies recommend that it can cause issues in the reproductive system and result in endocrine disruption.

9. Safer for Children

As a working parent, you won’t have time to stand behind your child when he or she brushes in the morning. So, you wouldn’t know whether they have swallowed the toothpaste while brushing. For such reasons, organic toothpaste comes as a saviour solution. Even if they consume a small amount of the herbal product, these ingredients are from natural sources and won’t cause harm.

10. Infused with Natural Ingredients

Derived from Mother Nature, natural ingredients in Ayurvedic toothpaste can never cause harm to anyone. In addition, the toothpaste also does not have extra dyes or harmful ingredients. The holistic formulation ensures safety and good health. 

Top Ingredients of Ayurvedic Toothpaste 

Many people are turning to Mother Nature's gifts for their health and well-being requirements. Ayurvedic toothpaste has become a popular choice for maintaining oral hygiene. Ayurvedic toothpaste harnesses the power of organic ingredients to promote oral hygiene with the help of these popular ingredients:

1. Babool

Babool is also referred to as the Indian gum tree, which has a high content of tannins. Tannins contain astringent properties that strengthen gum tissues and reduce gum bleeding. It also works for inflammation. So, babool in organic toothpaste is responsible for maintaining healthy gums.

2. Clove

Clove has a strong aromatic fragrance. It contains eugenol, which powerful analgesic as well as antibacterial qualities. Derived from Mother Nature, this ingredient is used in Ayurvedic toothpaste. If you want relief from toothaches and gum irritation, use close-infused toothpaste. It can also alleviate mouth discomfort and encourage a holistic dental practice.

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3. Neem

In India, neem is referred to as the "toothbrush tree." In the Ayurvedic dictionary, it is used for ages for oral health. Neem has natural antibacterial qualities that combat bacteria to prevent cavities and gum diseases. Some people also think it's a great mouth freshener that eliminates bad breath. The presence of neem in organic toothpaste helps foster healthy gums and teeth.

4. Aloe Vera

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Ayurvedic toothpaste that contains aloe vera promotes healing from mouth ulcers. In general, it is a well-known ingredient used in hair and skincare. Besides its skin-soothing characteristics, aloe vera can also work on inflamed teeth and gums while preventing gum sores. The calming and cooling impact offers comfort and relaxation during dental care.

5. Turmeric

Curcumin, found in the yellow spice turmeric, is used in toothpaste for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities. Ayurvedic toothpaste that includes turmeric can treat oral inflammation, soothe sore gums, and decrease gum redness. It also helps with general gum health.

6. Miswak

The soft abrasive effect of the miswak twig is used in toothpaste, especially in Asia and the Middle East. This organic teeth-cleaning ingredient is responsible for eliminating plaque and dirt from teeth. Note that Miswak extract also promotes gum health and offers thorough teeth and gum cleaning.

7. Charcoal

Charcoal has been a significant ingredient used in Ayurvedic toothpaste for several years. Derived from natural sources like bamboo and coconut shells, it can remove teeth stains and plaque. At the same time, it promotes fresher breath. The detoxifying properties make it a great addition to dental care. Using a charcoal-based Ayurvedic toothpaste eliminates harmful bacteria from your mouth. 

Also, do have a look at our indepth guide where we have discussed about different types of toothpaste. 

Common Differences between Ayurvedic Toothpaste vs Regular Toothpaste

This table elaborates on the differentiating parameters that make Ayurvedic toothpaste better than its regular counterparts.

Parameters	Regular Toothpaste	Ayurvedic Toothpaste
Cleaning Action	Depends on the synthetic abrasives and fluoride to clean your teeth	It cleans the teeth using natural abrasives such as neem, miswak, charcoal, etc.
Ingredients	Contains artificial flavours, fluoride, and synthetic chemicals	Natural herbs and ingredients such as neem, aloe vera, clove, bamboo, etc.
Chemicals	Contains artificial colours, preservatives & sodium lauryl sulphate	No additives or harsh chemicals
Flavours	It may include artificial sweeteners such as Sodium saccharin and Aspartame	It only contains natural flavours derived from spices and herbs like clove, mint, pepper, etc.
Sensitivity	It might cause sensitivity due to chemicals	Suitable for people with sensitivity issues in gums and teeth
Methods Used	Leverages state-of-the-art dental technology	Derived from Ayurvedic practices
Antibacterial Properties	Contains synthetic antibacterial agents	Only used natural antibacterial herbs  for oral health
Holistic Approach	Focuses on cleaning & fluoride protection.	Encourages gum and oral health.
Environmental Impact	Packaging or ingredients may have greater environmental impacts	An eco-friendly choice with sustainable packaging

 

Note: Do check our guide on Mouthwash vs Toothpaste.

A Concluding Thought

Waking up to the refreshing aroma of your toothpaste is a delightful ritual that may set the tone for your day. If the cooling property of the product is what awakens your senses, here’s a small reminder. Ensure that it is made of natural ingredients because going green not only makes you an eco-conscious individual but also promotes good dental hygiene.

FAQs

What active ingredients are found in Ayurvedic toothpaste? 

Active ingredients in Ayurvedic toothpaste include natural ingredients like neem, turmeric, clove, miswak, tulsi and more. Some natural toothpaste brands also contain active ingredients like silica and baking soda that remove surface stains and bad breath. 

Will ingredients in chemical toothpaste cause harm?

If you use the toothpaste as directed, the toothpaste won’t cause any harm. But if you have a kid who tends to swallow a certain amount of product containing fluoride, it might have adverse impacts on your health. 

Is a charcoal-based Ayurvedic toothpaste safe to use?

Yes, charcoal has antimicrobial properties that prevent bad breath. In addition, it whitens your teeth and strengthens enamel.