Is your toothpaste safe? Think again!

You might think all toothpaste is created equal, and are safe but think again. There’s a common ingredient in many tubes that could be doing more harm than good. Ever heard of Sodium Lauryl Sulfate? If not, it’s time you did. Dr Janine Bowring, a naturopathic doctor on her Instagram page shared a video mentioning, “Never use a toothpaste that contain this…, look on your toothpaste label is SLS.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dr. Janine Bowring, ND (@doctorjanine) Dr Kamlesh Kothari, a dental implantologist, cosmetic dentist, maxillofacial surgeon, and the Director of Aesthetic Clinics, Kolkata said, “Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is a detergent and surfectant commonly used in many personal care and cleaning products. It’s known for its cleansing and foaming properties. It also helps to disperse and remove debris from the teeth and gums. However, some people may be sensitive to SLS and can experience irritation, so there are SLS-free toothpaste options available as well.” Health risks associated with using toothpaste that contains Sodium Lauryl Sulfate Dr Kothari said that using toothpaste with SLS may cause irritation or sensitivity for some individuals. SLS can potentially irritate the skin inside the mouth, leading to canker sores or dryness. In rare cases, some individuals may be allergic to it, experiencing more severe symptoms like swelling or itching. There are some reports of SLS being carcinogenic (cancer potential) but there is no substantial scientific evidence linking it to cancer, added Dr Kothari. “SLS is a known irritant and can exacerbate issues for individuals with sensitive teeth or gums. It can cause or worsen symptoms such as redness, swelling, and discomfort in the gums”, mentioned Dr Kothari. There is evidence suggesting that SLS can increase the incidence of canker sores (aphthous ulcers) in some individuals. This is because SLS can disrupt the protective mucous layer in the mouth, making it more susceptible to irritation and ulceration. SLS can contribute to dry mouth by stripping away natural oils in the oral cavity. A dry mouth can lead to further sensitivity and discomfort, explained Dr Kothari. What does scientific research say? “Major health and regulatory bodies, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the European Medicines Agency (EMA), and the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR), have reviewed the safety of SLS extensively. These organizations have concluded that SLS is safe for use in personal care products, including toothpaste, at concentrations typically used in these products”, said Dr Kothari. Research does not support the notion that SLS is carcinogenic. Studies have shown that SLS is not mutagenic (does not cause genetic mutations) and does not cause cancer. The concentrations of SLS used in oral care products are well within the safety margins established by regulatory authorities, said Dr Kothari. Alternatives to SLS-containing toothpaste Dr Kothari suggests that one should: *Choose SLS-Free Toothpaste: Look for toothpaste specifically labeled as “SLS-free” to minimize the risk of irritation. *Consult a Dentist: If you experience persistent irritation or sensitivity, consult a dental professional. They can recommend suitable products and provide advice tailored to your specific needs. *Good Oral Hygiene Practices: Maintain good oral hygiene with gentle brushing and flossing techniques to reduce the risk of irritation and improve overall oral health. In India, some pastes like Dabur red paste, vicco vajradanti, bentodent, and some products from Sensofyne, mama earth, and Perfora have SLS-free options, mentioned Dr Kothari.