Woodland Dental Hygiene

Checking Your Toothpaste Label For SLS

Have you ever suffered from the painful effects of Canker Sores also known as: mouth ulcers, apthous ulcers, oral ulcers or recurrent apthous stomatitis?

The latest research shows that certain chemical compounds can trigger the production of canker sores.  For many years the pharmaceutical companies have used soap, chemically known as Sodium Lauryl Sulfate in toothpastes.   SLS, known as a surfactant, is used mainly to blend ingredients together and produces a foaming effect.  It is this foaming effect that we as consumers seem to be obsessed with, equating the foam with the products’ effectiveness.  But be aware, this foam does not remove bacterial plaque.  The main reason for brushing our teeth regularly is to remove bacterial plaque as it contributes to the formation of cavities and gum disease.  Since it is the mechanical action of the toothbrush bristles that actually remove the bacteria and clean our teeth, the use of toothpaste is not essential and may actually be undermining the health of your mouth unless you are using one that does not produce these harmful effects.  I personally use and recommend Oxyfresh products to all my patients.

SLS acts just like a detergent and it is the same chemical used in garages to clean car engines. It is thought that SLS may, in susceptible individuals, cause microscopic trauma or membrane disruption to the skin cells of the mouth.  This along with trauma or actions of the immune system may lead to canker sore formation.

Research is being conducted to determine what makes a person susceptible to canker sores in the first place as well as what actions and mechanisms trigger canker sore outbreaks.  Among those things that may trigger an attack or make a person more susceptible are:

1. SLS found in toothpaste and some mouthwashes
2. Allergies to food products and certain preservatives
3. Trauma from brushing your teeth too vigorously
4. Lip biting
5. Stress
6. Trauma from eating hard, rough foods (crusty bread, nacho chips)
7. Deficiencies in Vitamin B12, iron and folic acid.

Recent studies in Europe, one in particular at the University of Oslo in Oslo, Norway, Drs. Barvoll and Brokstad revealed a 60-70% reduction in the number of canker sores in patients who used SLS-free toothpaste during a three month test period.

At the very least, if you experience canker sores on a regular basis, please have a look at the ingredient list on the toothpaste that you currently use to see if it contains SLS; almost all of the popular brands do. Oxyfresh products are not only SLS-free, they contain Xylitol, a natural sweetener that naturally stimulates saliva.  In fact, clinical studies show that Xylitol helps to reduce cavities up to 80% and facilitates the remineralization of tooth enamel.  In addition these products contain essential oils providing a safe and natural flavoring, soothing inflammation and irritation instead of causing it.

I’d love to get your comments especially if you are a canker sore sufferer.  And here on my blog, I offer commentluv. This is really great for other bloggers. By leaving a comment, you can create a link back to your own blog…Great for SEO (search engines). But you don’t need to be a blogger to leave a comment! You can also become a ‘fan’ of my Facebook page or follow me on Twitter. And you can do it all from my blog page!

I look forward to hearing from you.

To your health,

Kathleen

Tags: allergies, canker sores, health, Oxyfresh, SLS, toothpaste, Xylitol