Toothpaste in all its types and flavors is an integral part of the dental care industry, as the product generates about $1.8 billion in sales annual annually. The revenue stream is fueled by both the need to implement oral hygiene and the variety of products available; over 352 brands of toothpaste line store shelves. Each toothpaste promotes its’ own benefits including tooth whitening abilities, combating halitosis and being gentle enough for sensitive teeth (http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703373404576148363319407354.html). While each type of toothpaste is specifically constructed to appeal to a target audience, not all teeth cleaners are created equally and 0900-DENTIST is here to share the truth regarding good, bad and unusual toothpaste.

For countless years, contemporary man and his evolutionary counterparts have used numerous devices to implement oral hygiene. Throughout history, twigs, animal quills, mouth rinsing, cloth and ashes were all devices used remove food particles and implement primitive preventative dentistry. Modern man can now rely on devices such as dental floss, toothbrushes and toothpastes to improve dental health and when it comes to the latter, some options are much better than others.

Herbal Toothpastes Contain Nicotine

Nicotine is an organic alkaloid produced by the nightshade family of plants. The substance was once used as an natural insecticide and humans who ingested small amounts of the substance can enjoy the stimulant quality of the compound. Nicotine is the culprit known for making cigarettes and smoking so addictive and research has shown that some herbal toothpastes include the additive as an ingredient. It this additive that has been linked to providing that ‘fresh’ feeling after brushing.

The findings were released by the Delhi Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research (DIPSAR), where researchers analyzed two dozens brands of toothpastes and tooth powders. Seven of those products (including the dental care products Colgate Herbal, Himalaya, Neem paste, Neem Tulsi, RA Thermoseal, Sensoform and Stoline) had nicotine levels ranging from 10-18mg per tube (http://worldental.org/oral-hygiene/herbal-toothpastes-may-contain-nicotine-cause-cancer/5188/).

That level of nicotine has been determined to be equal the levels present in around 5 to 9 cigarettes. Not only can this additive lead to physical addiction to a specific dental care product, but a myriad of health problems in humans including the most feared medical illness, cancer. The problems caused by nicotine are not just related to smoking, individuals who rely on nicotine laden gums to quick the habit are at risk for developing dental problems including loose teeth, dental enamel erosion and tooth staining.

Individuals interested in using a natural toothpaste can still find plenty of safe options to choose from. The process is as simple as reviewing some wise toothpaste selection tips on 0900-DENTIST or discussing the matter with your dentist to best information on the topic.

Unusually Flavored Toothpastes

Among plants, mints strongly scented herbs and many of the species are used to create popular dental care products such as mouthwash and toothpaste flavors including peppermint and spearmint. However, despite the plethora of different kinds of mint toothpastes, there are plenty of other flavors available targeting toothbrushers of all ages.

While a child may thrill at the idea of brushing their teeth with a bubblegum flavored toothpaste, adults have a more sophisticated taste selection. Cinnamon is one option can provide additional benefits as cinnamon fights both inflammation (prevalent in gum disease) and bacteria (the culprit that creates dental plaque). Licorice (anise) is another essence that has medicinal properties that can treat canker sores and kill oral bacteria. Another powerful natural toothpaste variety is tea-tree oil, also cited for its inflammation fighting properties. Other flavors with natural cavity fighting protection also exist include exotic fruits like pomegranate, candy flavors like chocolate.

While many of the aforementioned flavors have been specifically developed to target both dental health while pleasing the palate, other toothpaste flavors have been developed as a novelty backed by the standard toothpaste ingredients such as fluoride. Other unusual taste selections include bacon, liquor flavored and even ice cream!