Dental care is central to our lives–not only for its aesthetic purpose, but also because it prevents infections in our teeth and gums that can be incredibly painful and make us ill. However, this hygiene habit is posing a threat to our natural environment.
Worldwide, it is estimated that 1.5 billion toothpaste tubes go into landfills annually.
As well as the incredible amount of plastic waste, there are many chemical ingredients in our toothpaste. Sodium lauryl sulfate, triclosan, propylene glycol, fluoride, carrageenan, and artificial colorants and sweeteners end up going down our drains and ultimately polluting our water system.
Fortunately, the market for sustainable toothpaste alternatives has grown massively within the past decade. If you’re looking to make your dental hygiene routine more eco-friendly, here are some of your options:
1. Plastic free tubes.
While plastic free tubes are hard to come by and less popular than many of the other options on the market, there are a few to consider.
Goodwell Co. is a company famous for creating an e-waste free electric toothbrush. However, they also make floss, tongue cleaners, non-electric bamboo brushes, and toothpaste.
Their mint toothpaste only comes in a travel sized bottle, but it is made from a sugarcane based bio-resin that is fully recyclable. The toothpaste itself is free from synthetics, preservatives, colorants, and fluoride.
Davids is another highly acclaimed brand carrying eco-friendly toothpastes. Their vegan formulas do not contain any fluoride, artificial flavors, colorants, sweeteners, or preservatives, and are contained in a recyclable aluminum tube that is shipped in recycled cardboard packaging.
Glass or aluminum jars.
Jars have become the most popular option for eco-friendly toothpaste companies.
GeoOrganics is a company that has kept the idea of traditional toothpaste, cleaned up the ingredients, and opted to package it in a glass jar with an aluminum lid.
Tooth powders (also packaged in jars) are becoming a popular option as well, with brands like The Dirt and Butter Me Up Organics leading the charge.
However, chewable tooth cleaning tablets are arguably the most popular trend in sustainable dental hygiene.
Individually portioned similarly to mints, simply chew the tablet between your teeth to crush it into powder. Then wet your brush and get to scrubbing! They foam up just like regular toothpaste, but without the harsh chemicals.
Tablets can be found at most zero waste stores, or ordered from brands like Etee and Huppy.
Make your own toothpaste!
Making your own toothpaste is quite easy and a great way to reuse old jars.
Baking soda, coconut oil, and peppermint essential oil are the base of any DIY toothpaste recipe. For more detoxification, add activated charcoal or bentonite clay. Colloidal silver and rosemary essential oil can also be included for their antibacterial benefits.
While this option will cut back on the resources needed to manufacture more plastic jars and ship a package to your location, it may be difficult to find some of these ingredients in plastic-free containers.
That being said, choose the option that is most appropriate for you. Happy brushing!