Toothpaste History and Sensitivity

We have all been encouraged to brush after every meal since we were old enough to hold a toothbrush. It seems the desire to have clean teeth goes all the way back to the dawn of man. Recent discoveries show even the cavemen had a obsession for clean teeth and would pick their teeth clean with bones for hours. Even Native Indians used twigs from specific trees to brush up. Of course being a modern civilization we have come up with a whole host of toxic chemicals to brush with.

Toothpaste The Early Years

Early more modern attempts to clean teeth also included the use of urine which was widely used in the Victorian age. Many other exotic ingredients like brick, bone and shells were also ground up and used for abrasive purposes. Prior to the universal use of toothpaste gel, toothpaste powder was also very popular.

Toothpaste and Fluoride

Much of the current controversy around toothpaste is focused on the use of fluoride. Although fluoride can be toxic if swallowed in large amounts it is said to be beneficial to tooth enamel. Interestingly when fluoride was first introduced into toothpaste it was rejected by the American Dental Association, it got approval from the ADA about 40 years after.

Toothpaste Allergies and Sensitivity

Unfortunately many people also find they are sensitive to chemicals in modern toothpaste which can include not just fluoride but calcium phosphate and Hydroxyapatite nanocrystals. Reports of toothpaste allergies are becoming more common. Most toothpaste allergy symptoms include outbreaks around the mouth and nose which appear red or cause contact dermatitis. Sores inside the mouth may also be irritating to those who suffer. Many people who experience allergy like symptoms have switched to more natural toothpastes which are widely available in most health stores.

No matter what type of toothpaste you chose to brush with its important to remember that its the brush and frequency of brushing that is probably more important to cleaning your teeth than the toothpaste that is used.

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