After trying to make our own toothpaste, and being somewhat satisfied with the results, I continued on my quest to find the perfect solution to store-bought toothpaste, ’cause I just can’t do it…I can’t buy toothpaste anymore! Yet, for some reason, it seems to be a difficult commercial product to let go of.
The realization that virtually all commercially-prepared toothpaste contains at least one or two harmful ingredients — i.e. glycerin and fluoride — poses a serious problem. We’re all beginning to learning of the extremely harmful effects of fluoride on our bodies. Likewise for our oral cavity, instead of being beneficial it actually damages teeth. On the other hand, glycerin coats the enamel and prevents re-mineralization of our teeth.
The solution?
Attempt to avoid these two ingredients by making your own homemade tooth cleanser.
The Benefits of Tooth Powder
So, I’ve pretty much decided to abandon my quest for a “paste-like” alternative in part because I am thrilled with our newest concoction…tooth powder. This is not just your usual baking soda — by the way, I love occasionally brushing my teeth with straight baking soda, but I do worry about it’s abrasive nature.
Lately I’ve been researching the benefits of bentonite clay, and wow…I love all that I’m learning.
Rich in vital minerals that are very beneficial for our teeth and gums — like calcium and potassium — bentonite clay is a fantastic non-toxic, and not to mention very affordable, product that has become my new favorite for brushing my teeth because…
- it has been used for hundreds and hundreds of years to detoxify the body. In fact, when bentonite clay is consumed, it has the ability to absorb and eliminate toxins.
- when it’s used in tooth powder recipes, bentonite clay is a very mild abrasive that gently scrubs and beautifully polishes our teeth.
- I think the high mineral content of the clay has the ability to mineralize the teeth and heal decay.
A Recipe for Cinnamon and Clove Herbal Tooth Powder
Tooth Powder Ingredients
-4 parts bentonite clay
-1 part baking soda
-1/2 part myrrh gum powder
-1/2 part ground cloves
-1/2 part ground stevia
–essential oils of cloves and cinnamon
Tooth Powder Instructions
1. Add all ingredients to a mason jar. Tightly close the lid and shake jar until well combined.
2. To use, apply a small amount of tooth powder to your tooth brush with a spoon and brush as you normally would.
Notes
-This tooth powder is good enough to eat! And it’s safe for the whole family.
-Myrrh gum powder contains highly antiseptic properties and is excellent for overall oral health.
-For a minty variation substitute peppermint leaf powder for the ground cloves and peppermint essential oils for the essential oils of cloves and cinnamon.
-Follow this recipe for homemade mouthwash.
-I purchase the ingredients for this recipe from Mountain Rose Herbs and The Bulk Herb Store, or a local health food store.
If you don’t want to make your own, this is a really good store bought option that I’ve used and love.
What about you? What do you use to brush your teeth?