Avoiding Toxins in Oral Health Products: A 2025 Wellness Guide

Published: August 25, 2019

Updated: March 25, 2025

Protecting Your Mouth, Body, and Microbiome

When it comes to wellness, oral health is often overlooked—but it’s a critical part of your whole-body health. Many conventional toothpastes, mouthwashes, and dental products still contain ingredients that can negatively impact your microbiome, disrupt hormones, or contribute to chronic inflammation.

In 2025, we now have greater access to natural alternatives, but harmful ingredients still persist in many mainstream products. Because your mouth and gums are highly absorbent, what you use in your oral care routine truly matters.

Ingredients to Avoid in Oral Health Products

1. Triclosan

Formerly used as an antibacterial/antifungal agent, triclosan has been linked to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and hormone disruption. While it’s been banned in some products, it may still be found in imported or older formulations.

2. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)

SLS is a common foaming agent known to irritate, including canker sores and cracks at the corners of the mouth. It can also disrupt the delicate mucous membranes in the mouth.

3. Microbeads (Polyethylene or Plastic Abrasives)

While now banned in many regions, plastic microbeads may still be found in some toothpaste brands. These particles can get lodged in the gums, trapping bacteria and contributing to gingivitis or periodontal disease.

4. Artificial Sweeteners (Aspartame, Saccharin, etc.)

Used to improve taste, these synthetic sugars can negatively affect the gut and oral microbiome, and may be linked to metabolic and neurological concerns.

5. Propylene Glycol

Propylene glycol, commonly used as a moisture-retaining agent, is a skin, eye, and respiratory irritant, especially for those with sensitivities.

6. Titanium Dioxide

Titanium dioxide, which is used to whiten teeth, has come under increasing scrutiny. Animal and lab studies suggest it may be carcinogenic, neurotoxic, and genotoxic, especially in nanoparticle form.

7. Alcohol-Based Mouthwash

Alcohol may kill harmful bacteria—but it also disrupts beneficial bacteria, dries out oral tissues, and has been associated with an increased risk of oral cancers when used chronically.

8. Teflon-Coated Dental Floss (PTFE)

Some floss brands still use Teflon (PTFE), which may contain perfluorinated chemicals (PFAS). These chemicals are linked to hormone disruption, immune suppression, and cancer risk.

9. Fluoride (Ingested)

Fluoride can support enamel when used topically but should never be ingested. Chronic exposure may contribute to thyroid dysfunction, skeletal fluorosis, and iodine displacement.

What to Use Instead: Thrive-Approved Alternatives

Making the switch to non-toxic oral care is easier than ever. Here are a few suggestions:

• Natural tooth powders or toothpaste made with clay or calcium carbonate (natural chalk)
• Products with essential oils (like tea tree, clove, or peppermint) for antibacterial effects
• Toothpaste with xylitol, which supports a healthy oral microbiome
• Alcohol-free mouthwashes with herbal ingredients like aloe, echinacea, or licorice root
• Waxed dental floss made without synthetic coatings (like silk or biodegradable options)
• Tools like tongue scrapers and water flossers to support daily hygiene without chemicals

Protecting the Oral Microbiome

Like the gut, the mouth hosts a complex microbiome that affects immune function, digestion, and mood. Using clean oral care products is an important step in supporting whole-body health.

At Thrive Carolinas, we believe in educating and empowering patients to make informed, sustainable choices. Small changes like swapping your toothpaste or floss can have a big long-term impact on your health.