8 natural toothpaste alternatives

While toothpaste is sold as the ‘key’ to maintaining a set of beautiful, clean and strong white teeth, over the years there has been concern over some of the ingredients found in toothpaste. One of the main ingredients, fluoride, has been shown to be harmful to the body. Besides fluoride which is the main ingredient in most tooth pastes, other ingredients that have been found to raise health concerns include titanium oxide, glycerin, sodium lauryl sulfate and artificial sweeteners.  It is no wonder then that more people are seeking out healthier alternatives to toothpaste. Below are 8 different substitutes for toothpaste that you can incorporate into your life. ESTHER MUCHENE 1. Baking Soda

Baking soda is a very popular toothpaste alternative when used right. Due to its abrasive nature it may cause your enamel to chip away with time and over use. Using a small amount of baking soda mix with water or lemon juice for some whitening effect and brush your teeth. On to the brine you can consider adding a drop of peppermint before you brush which will leave you with minty fresh breath.  2. Hydrogen Peroxide Hydrogen Peroxide is especially effective in maintaining clean and white teeth. Simply dip your toothbrush in some and brush away. Be careful with this alternative if you have amalgam fillings as it does not mix well with mercury in the silver filling. 3. Sea Salt Sea salt is one of the most natural toothpaste alternatives that you will find. Dab your toothbrush in some sea salt and proceed to brush your teeth. You may also mix the sea salt in water before brushing if you are concerned about it being too abrasive.  4. Dry Brushing Dry brushing is quite simple and will save you some money as all you need is a toothbrush. Dry brushing as an alternative will clean your teeth well enough. The only thing missing will be that minty feel afterwards.  5. Herbal Tooth Powder Herbal tooth powders are a great toothpaste alternative. In addition to cleaning your teeth, the ingredients also help in treatment of inflammation and infection in the mouth.  6. Coconut Oil Coconut oil has been said to be a holy grail oil. It is great at moisturizing the skin and works great with hair but that does not stop there.  When used as an alternative to toothpaste, its antibacterial and antifungal properties ensure the mouth is clean and healthy. You can use it by itself or add it to baking soda or essential oils.  7. All Natural Soap Natural, regular soap can also be used to brush your teeth. It will however leave you with a soapy feel in the mouth but you can reduce this by using a peppermint scented soap. You will have a clean mouth and not too much of the soapy taste. 8. Tooth Soap If you are not a big fan of using the regular soap as an alternative, you may get one designed specifically for brushing teeth. Make sure to get a natural tooth soap that does not have additives.  Whatever alternative works for you, remember that oral hygiene is very important and will go a long way towards boosting your confidence and dental health. Pick wisely!