With the rise in caring for the environment, sustainable sources and the hunt for a perfect Instagram worthy smile, millennials these days demand authenticity and are driving the need for healthy, natural and cruelty free beauty and personal care products. One of the fastest growing demand is for vegan-friendly cosmetic and dental products which have an ethical and environmentally sourced standard.
As the demand grows for vegan-friendly dental products, are they really good for your teeth and gums? We will explore the benefits and drawbacks of using vegan-friendly oral products and also look at some of the most popular brands in the market. So if you are curious about vegan-friendly oral products and want to find out if they are good for you, read on!
The Benefits of Vegan-Friendly Dental Products
Vegan-friendly products are made without animal by-products, such as beeswax or glycerine containing natural, cruelty-free ingredients. Some of the vegan-friendly products available in the market are toothpaste, mouthwash, toothbrushes, floss, and whitening products.
Toothpaste
Most toothpaste contains an ingredient called glycerine which traditionally came from animals but is now derived from plant sources or created synthetically. Vegan toothpaste is free of artificial sweeteners and dyes, as well as SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate) and other potentially harmful ingredients. Many vegan toothpastes also contain natural ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, and baking soda that help to soothe and nourish gums while also fighting cavities.
2 years ago, Colgate unveiled a line of vegan, gluten-free products that they claim do not have artificial flavours, sweeteners or colours called Colgate Zero products. This put them in direct competition with small niche competitors as well as Procter & Gamble, which is the maker of Crest oral hygiene products, Colgate’s largest competitor. Colgate claims that toothpaste is free of artificial preservatives.
Mouthwash
Vegan mouthwash is positioned as an alternative to traditional mouthwashes that typically contain alcohol or fluoride. Most vegan mouthwashes are alcohol-free and contain natural ingredients which are claimed to freshen breath, reduce plaque build-up, and prevent cavities.
Colgate claims that its vegan mouthwash is good for people and the planet. The company claims that the mouthwash formula is made with 100% naturally derived ingredients that are sugar-free, gluten-free and SLS-free.
Toothbrush
Most dental product manufacturers offer vegan toothbrushes which are usually made from bamboo, which is an eco-friendlier material than plastic. Bamboo is naturally anti-bacterial and helps to remove plaque and food particles from teeth. Some vegan toothbrushes are also biodegradable and better for the environment than regular plastic toothbrushes.
Floss
Majority of the flosses are either made from petroleum-based nylon or silk. Vegan floss is usually made from corn-starch or vegetable waxes instead of animal by products. These flosses are less likely to irritate gums than conventional flosses and is also more biodegradable.
Whitening Products
Whitening products usually contain chemicals for whitening your teeth. Vegan-friendly whitening products use vegan-peroxide based formula, baking soda, coconut oil, and other plant-based oils to help whiten teeth without damaging the enamel or causing discomfort.
In summary, vegan dental products offer a number of benefits over traditional dental products. They are free of animal by products, contain natural ingredients that nourish the teeth and gums, and are often more eco-friendly than conventional products.
The Disadvantages of Vegan Dental Products
However, not all is rosy with vegan-friendly dental products. The biggest concern is that these products may not contain all of the necessary ingredients to keep your teeth healthy and clean. While vegan toothpastes, mouthwashes, and other dental products may be made with natural ingredients, they often lack the same active ingredients found in conventional dental products. This can lead to a decrease in effectiveness, leaving your teeth more vulnerable to cavities, plaque build-up, and other oral health issues.
Another potential issue with vegan-friendly dental products is that many of the natural ingredients used in them can be irritating to sensitive gums and teeth. This irritation can cause an increase in discomfort, leading to further oral health problems. In some cases, the use of these products may also cause an allergic reaction.
Finally, vegan dental products may cost more than their conventional counterparts due to their higher concentration of natural ingredients. This can make them less accessible for those on a budget.
When it comes to deciding whether or not vegan dental products are good for you, it’s important to weigh both the pros and cons carefully. Consider your own oral health needs and budget and have a chat with us before making any purchasing decisions.
The Bottom Line
Talk to your dentist on the options of vegan-friendly dental products for you. While vegan-friendly oral products are more expensive, it is your decision whether switching to eco-friendly and cruelty-free products can justify a higher budget.
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