Wednesday, February 13, 2008

review of Green People toothpaste for children

There is a lot of concern about the unnecessary amount of fluoride in toothpaste and particularly in toothpaste for children who often swallow paste when cleaning their teeth. Some kids even like to suck it out the tube. Not a good idea when you consider that the manufacturers advise against swallowing it, using only a peas-sized amount and rinsing well after use.

As well as fluoride, regular brands of toothpaste also contain sodium laureth/lauryl sulphate (SLS) which is a harsh foaming agent that can cause irritation, ulcers and dryness in the mouth. As an alternative, Green People have formulated an organic, fluoride-free toothpaste with a mild taste and only a very mild foaming action. It's also made without preservatives. It really is 100% natural.

Green People toothpastes contain antiseptic, antibacterial essential oils and rather than rinsing the paste away at the end Green People say that by leaving a coating of paste in the mouth the essential oils will continue to protect the teeth and gums.

It's certainly quite a different experience brushing with this type of toothpaste compared with the zingy, blow the top of your head, fill your mouth with foam toothpastes that we used to use. It took a bit of getting used to however children's toothpastes are generally milder in flavour than adult ones so it was an easier transition for them to make.

I think this a great product. My children have been using Green People toothpaste for about five years and their teeth are filling free. I, who have a mouth full of fillings due to a high sugar, low dental care childhood, have also been using Green People toothpaste for the same length of time. Before I started using it I had a problem with bleeding gums but the aloe vera and myrrh (which is renowned for it's affect on the gums) have made a tremendous difference. My gums are now strong and healthy and I also think my teeth are whiter than they've ever been. So that's something to smile about!!