<p class=”body-text”> Since fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral, it <em>can</em> be found in some natural toothpaste—so it depends on what you’re comfortable using. Other natural ingredients, Casellini adds, will provide surface-level protection to the tooth but won’t penetrate the structure in the same way as fluoride-based toothpaste to prevent tooth decay. “A natural toothpaste will still clean your teeth and remove plaque and bacteria, so if used properly, it will still do a decent job keeping your mouth healthy,” she notes.<br></p><p>Are you interested in making the switch? We’ve compiled some of the best organic toothpaste options, ahead, to help gently brighten your smile. </p><hr>” data-next-head/>
Every product on this page was chosen by a Harper’s BAZAAR editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
Pros
- Multiple oral health benefits
Cons
- Minty flavor may be too strong for some
This editor-approved toothpaste uses stannous (rather than sodium) fluoride, which is clinically proven to ward off gingivitis and plaque all while preventing tooth sensitivity. Adding to its appeal, its formula also doesn’t contain artificial sweeteners, preservatives, or flavors.
- Key ingredients: Fluoride, zinc
Editor review: “If you’re looking for a no-frills, all-around toothpaste, try this multitasking formula from Hello. Its ingredient list is thoroughly streamlined and tastes quite nice.” —Sarah Maberry, Hearst fashion & luxury editor
Pros
- Eco-friendly
- Under $10
A favorite in the clean beauty community, adding a tube of Davids toothpaste to your routine is actually a double win, since its sustainable packaging is also earth-friendly.
- Key ingredients: Vegetable glycerin, baking soda, limestone abrasive
Customer review: “I love this toothpaste! My teeth feel cleaner with Davids than with any other brand I’ve used. Clean ingredients and appreciate the unique formulation.” —Nadia V.
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Pros
- Has fluoride-like benefits without the fluoride
Cons
- Over $20
This toothpaste uses a fluoride alternative called ano-hydroxyapatite (or n-HA) to help fill in the tooth surface, so it’s safe for kids in case they accidentally swallow it. It also features 100 percent natural mint flavor and coconut oil to help balance the mouth’s microbiome.
- Key ingredients: Nano-hydroxyapatite, xylitol, coconut oil, baking soda, aloe vera
Customer review: “This toothpaste is amazing. It’s been great for my sensitive teeth and has been the first whitening product I’m able to use. I believe it’s actually helping my teeth become stronger and healthier. I got a compliment recently on how white my teeth looked. I’m very happy.” —Elissa
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Pros
- Helps strengthen weak enamel
Cons
- Contains flouride, which may be off-putting for some
Here’s a sulfate-free toothpaste that’s ideal for sensitive mouths. With nearly a five-star rating and over 6,500 customer reviews from Amazon shoppers. Its gentle, pH-balanced formula aims to restore eroded enamel.
- Key ingredients: Sodium fluoride, water-hydrated silica
Customer review: “[The] best toothpaste on world! I can say this from a professional perspective as I have been a dentist since 1984 and have been using these products since the early 1990’s. The inventor of this product was the doctor who wrote the college textbook ‘Periodontal’.”Anonymous
Advantages
- Recognized by the American Dental Association
Disadvantages
- Contains fluoride, which may be bothersome to some
With soothing aloe vera, this toothpaste is sugar and paraben free and contains a soothing formula optimized for sensitive teeth and gums.
- Key Ingredients: Aloe, allantoin
Customer Rating: “I’ve been using Aloesense for several years now and I love it! This toothpaste has a crisp, fresh mint flavor and really leaves your teeth and mouth completely clean. My dental checkups have been great since using this product. It is nice to have an alternative to the usual toothpaste options.” —Janet N.
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Advantages
- Excellent for whitening
Burt’s Bees Purely White toothpaste is scented with essential oils and free of parabens, microbeads, sulfates and dyes. And as an earth-friendly bonus, it even features a carton that’s fully recyclable.
- Key Ingredients: Hydrated Silica
Customer Rating: “I really like the smoothness of the mint flavor. So far, it’s the best cruelty-free paste I’ve ever tried.” — Alina
Advantages
- pain relief
If you cringe at the thought of eating ice cream straight from the freezer, this natural toothpaste might be for you. Developed by the clean beauty experts at Tom’s, its formula helps block exposed pathways to tooth nerves for sensitive mouths.
- Key Ingredients: Arginine, calcium carbonate
Customer Rating: “I love everything about this product. The taste is great and it really works. Especially if you have a sensitivity to cold and hot drinks. I can drink my iced coffee without a problem.” —Stormy
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Advantages
- Elegant
- Excellent for freshening the breath
Disadvantages
- Over $10
Here’s another favorite and top-rated toothpaste that removes surface stains on teeth over time and leaves your breath smelling like fresh mint.
- Key Ingredients: Glycerin, hydrated silica, titanium dioxide
Customer Rating: “I love this toothpaste and have been using it for years. It costs more than a drugstore product, but it’s really worth it.” —Anonymous
Advantages
- It helps to strengthen the enamel
- Excellent for whitening
Disadvantages
- Over $10
This natural toothpaste combines a range of essential oils with a natural version of the same mineral that makes up the enamel of our bones and teeth, making it the ideal choice to keep your smile bright and healthy. Its composition is also excellent for general whitening. “RiseWell makes a hydroxyapatite-based toothpaste that has natural whitening properties,” dentist Rich Lipari previously said. Bazaar. “Although hydroxyapatite-based toothpastes are a newer product here in the United States, there are numerous studies that show they can be an excellent alternative to traditional fluoride-based toothpastes.”
- Key Ingredients: Silicon, Sorbitol, Glycerin, Xylitol, Hydroxyapatite, Calcium Carbonate
Customer Rating: “My husband and I use it and love it! It’s one of our favorite natural toothpastes. It doesn’t lather, so you have to get used to it.” —Paige
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Advantages
- Biocompatible and non-toxic
Boka’s popular Ela Mint toothpaste is a big hit among Amazon customers (over 38,000 and counting) for its teeth-restoring benefits and fluoride-free formula. It uses nano-hydroxyapatite (n-Ha) to help strengthen teeth and can even close enamel holes to alleviate sensitivity.
- Key Ingredients: Aloe, green tea, xylitol
Customer Rating: “I’ve been looking for a fluoride-free toothpaste that still leaves my teeth fresh and clean, and this one totally delivers! After brushing, my teeth feel incredibly smooth and “clean” like I just left the dentist’s office. The natural ingredients give me peace of mind and the taste is refreshing without being overwhelming.” —Reagan
How are natural toothpastes and regular toothpastes different?
While “regular” toothpastes can contain a number of chemical cleaning agents and preservatives, natural options are usually made with organic and plant-based ingredients that tend to be gentler on gums and teeth overall.
“All toothpaste, when used with proper brushing techniques, will remove plaque and bacteria from the surface of the teeth,” says Casellini, who stresses, “It’s important to find a toothpaste you like so you’re motivated to brush. keep up with your hygiene. “
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Is organic toothpaste better?
There are many factors that could influence someone to make the switch to organic or natural toothpastes. Those who are sensitive to fluoride may prefer a natural fluoride-free option. And since many natural toothpastes are made entirely with plant-based ingredients, without harshness, they can also be suitable for vegans.
Although not all non-natural toothpastes, some may contain potential irritants or other harmful ingredients. A natural toothpaste can be a good choice for children, as children tend to be more prone to swallowing their toothpaste.
Ultimately, choosing to switch to a natural or organic toothpaste comes down to personal preference. If you have any questions or concerns, it is always recommended to consult your dentist.
Do natural toothpastes contain fluoride?
If you’re concerned about the ingredient, Casellini reinforces that “fluoride in small doses is important for oral health.” And, if you want to swap your tube for a cleaner option, you can find natural fluoride toothpastes that are approved by the American Dental Association.
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What are some of the top ingredients to look for in the best natural toothpastes?
Natural toothpaste can contain a number of useful ingredients, such as those that help whiten and balance the oral microbiome. “Since natural toothpastes lack many of the ingredients you’ll find in regular toothpastes, choosing a natural toothpaste with ingredients like baking soda, aloe vera, xylitol, tea tree oil or coconut oil, herbal extracts, and activated charcoal will help better results,” adds Casellini.
Meet the experts
- Dr. Ilona Casellini is a dentist at Swiss Quality Smile in Los Angeles.
- Dr. Rich Lipari is a cosmetic dentist at Lipari & Mangiameli Dentistry in Chappaqua, New York.
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