Certified Organic Toothpaste for Sensitive Teeth
Written by Irina Webb
Normally, I do not have sensitive teeth, but sometimes I do. You might not relate to this, but I love tart fruit – cherries, plums, and apples. I even love fresh cranberries. And I can eat a whole bag of cranberries. When I eat a lot of them, my teeth become very sensitive. In this post, you are going to learn about a certified organic toothpaste that is a perfect toothpaste for sensitive teeth. The main reason it works so well for sensitive teeth is that it is a non-abrasive toothpaste. Keep in mind though that I am not a dentist, so consult with your dentist to choose the best toothpaste for you.
Conventional toothpaste
I wanted a toothpaste without potentially harmful ingredients or even questionable ones. After all, we use toothpaste frequently, at least twice a day. Our skin absorbs things we put on it, especially if it is a mucous membrane type of skin as is the case with the mouth. And we may also swallow tiny amounts.
Conventional toothpastes have surfactants (aka foaming cleansers or detergents). They may be too harsh for the gentle skin of our mouths. In addition, many toothpastes contain sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) or other surfactants with not much health safety data available about them. And that’s just one of the problems with toothpastes. Besides, conventional toothpastes may have fluoride, synthetic dyes, and synthetic preservatives. They may also have ethoxylated ingredients, quaternary ammonium compounds, and even microbeads. Some toothpastes, while non-harmful, contain very few or no beneficial ingredients.
As you can imagine, I was glad to see a certified organic toothpaste for sensitive teeth. It is definitely the best organic toothpaste for sensitive teeth.
Non-abrasive toothpaste
To know the degree of abrasiveness of a toothpaste, we can look up its RDA (Relative Dentin Abrasiveness) index. Many types of toothpaste are highly abrasive and can strip away tooth enamel. That can make the teeth very sensitive to hot, cold, sour, and sweet food. The FDA recommends not to exceed an RDA index of 200. Dentists consider toothpastes with an index of 70 and lower to be of low abrasiveness. Toothpastes between 70 and 100 are of medium abrasiveness. Therefore, dentists do not recommend toothpastes with an RDA of over 100 for people with sensitive teeth.
Essential Oxygen recently sent their organic toothpaste for testing. They found out that the RDA for their non-abrasive toothpaste is only 12. For your reference point, brushing with plain water is 4. This is how we know that Essential Oxygen BR is a perfect toothpaste for sensitive teeth.
With this said, let’s look at the Essential Oxygen BR toothpaste ingredients. I accessed these ingredients here.
Essential Oxygen BR organic toothpaste ingredients
Aloe vera gel (aloe barbadensis)*, hydrogen peroxide, xanthan gum (xanthomonas campestris), guar gum: (cyamopsis tetragonoloba)*, coconut oil (cocos nucifera)*, peppermint oil (mentha piperia)*, spearmint leaf oil (mentha spicata)*, stevia (stevia rebadiana leaf powder)*, lemon peel oil (citrus medica limonum)*, rosemary leaf oil (rosmarinus officinalis)*, clove bud oil (eugenia caryophyllus)*, cinnamon leaf oil (cinnamomum zeylanicum)*, wintergreen oil (gaultheria procumbens)*, eucalyptus leaf oil (eucalyptus globulus)*, frankinscence oil (botswellia carterii)*, coconut flour*, calcium phosphate
*Organic ingredient
First and foremost, I’d like to say that the ingredients are disclosed in International Nomenclature Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI) naming conventions. These are naming conventions upon which the cosmetic industry agrees. Making the names consistent makes it easier for customers to know what they are and to research them. Hence, that is one of the factors I look at when I decide whether I can trust a company.
Let’s look at each ingredient of the Essential Oxygen toothpaste separately.
Aloe vera gel and oils in this toothpaste for sensitive teeth
Aloe vera gel
This ingredient has numerous healing properties. They include antibacterial, moisturizing, and wound healing (think ‘canker sores’). And I am so glad that this non-toxic toothpaste has a certified organic aloe vera gel.
Coconut oil
It’s great to see organic coconut oil in this organic toothpaste. Coconut oil is famous for its healing and hygienic properties and is used in oil pulling, which many find beneficial. You can read more about that on Dr. Mercola’s website.
Essential oils
Essential Oxygen toothpaste for sensitive teeth uses a large number of essential oils in its BR organic toothpaste. These oils are known for their healing and antibacterial properties. They are all organic and produce a refreshing yet mild taste.
On a side note, here is something to keep in mind if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy has published a list of essential oils that are best to use in a highly diluted form or avoid using altogether throughout pregnancy, labor, and breastfeeding. Wintergreen oil is one of them. By the way, it is a common ingredient in natural toothpastes.
Thickeners in this non-toxic toothpaste
Xanthan gum
This ingredient is popular in food for its thickening properties. It is a polysaccharide produced by fermentation of sugars. While I am not a fan of xanthan gum or any food made with it for that matter, I believe it is safe in toothpaste. In fact, it is an ingredient that helps the non-abrasive toothpaste to stay on the toothbrush and resemble conventional toothpaste in texture.
Guar gum
It is great that guar gum in this toothpaste for sensitive teeth is organic. Guar gum is made of the seeds of the guar, or cluster bean, plant. It is widely used in food to thicken foods, add fiber content, and improve texture (source). So, this is another ingredient that improves the experience of using this organic toothpaste.
Coconut flour
I believe, coconut flour functions as a thickening ingredient to improve the texture of this non-toxic toothpaste.
Calcium and stevia in the Essential Oxygen organic toothpaste
Calcium phosphate
Because there is no fluoride, I am glad to see calcium in this non-abrasive toothpaste. Recent studies show that calcium is as effective as fluoride in the remineralization of teeth (read more here and here). Thus, holistic dentists recommend it as a safe alternative to fluoride.
Stevia
It is a plant sweetener that may not have side effects associated with sugar (you can read more about stevia here).
Hydrogen peroxide in this organic toothpaste for sensitive teeth
To begin, hydrogen peroxide serves as a disinfectant to prevent or help with plaque and inflammation of the gums. I am not a dentist, but my personal experience previously led me to believe that in order to deal with plague I must use a more abrasive toothpaste. The good news is that Essential Oxygen toothpaste allows us to deal with plaque without risking wearing out our enamel.
Some people may be concerned about the use of hydrogen peroxide in toothpaste. Let’s talk about that for a moment.
The first concern about hydrogen peroxide in toothpaste
Hydrogen peroxide is one of the chemicals whose safety is dose-dependent. In larger doses, it can be very corrosive, cause burns and even death. However, in smaller doses, its dangers are mitigated.
Essential Oxygen organic toothpaste for sensitive teeth contains 1.5% hydrogen peroxide, which is lower than the 3% hydrogen peroxide you would buy in a drug store. It is also much lower than teeth whitening products contain. Normally, teeth whitening products have a 6% hydrogen peroxide concentration. Some whitening gels contain hydrogen peroxide as high as 35%.
The second concern about hydrogen peroxide in this non-toxic toothpaste
I’d like to address cancer as one of the concerns. The US 2018 Cosmetic Ingredient Review report detailed animal studies for carcinogenicity. Obviously, the purpose of the studies was to see whether hydrogen peroxide could stimulate the growth or multiplication of cancer cells. The scientists got mixed results and came to the following conclusion. There was not enough evidence to classify hydrogen peroxide as carcinogenic to humans. By the way, in the animal studies, scientists administered hydrogen peroxide orally in drinking water.
The EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) refers to hydrogen peroxide as a weak cancer promoter. Additionally, the committee looks at multiple factors to determine its safety guidelines in toothpastes and mouthwashes. These factors include amounts, frequency, and people’s overall state of health.
For example, the SCCS found that saliva rapidly breaks down hydrogen peroxide (H202) into oxygen (O2) and water (H20). In fact, studies showed that at least 70% of peroxide decomposes during brushing. As for the other ingredients, they did not affect the rate of decomposition.
Addressing the concerns about hydrogen peroxide by the EU Scientific Committee
It is important for us to feel completely safe when using the Essential Oxygen organic toothpaste for sensitive teeth. So, what does the EU Scientific Committee have to say about a toothpaste with hydrogen peroxide?
The EU Scientific Committee concluded that:
- Using toothpastes containing up to 1.5% of hydrogen peroxide twice a day for up to six months did not lead to adverse health effects.
- Using mouth rinses that contain up to 1.5% hydrogen peroxide once or twice daily for up to 2 years had no adverse effects on the inside of the mouth, gums or tongue. However, one study reported discoloration of the inner lining of the mouth and the tongue when used 4 times daily for 5 weeks.
- Using rinses containing 3% hydrogen peroxide 3 to 5 times per day can cause irritation in people with a previous mouth injury.
- Rinsing and brushing 2 to 3 times daily with products containing more than 6% hydrogen peroxide affected the tongue and gums in some healthy people.
Conclusion about this non-abrasive toothpaste
I believe these organic toothpaste ingredients are generally safe. It can be an excellent option as a toothpaste for sensitive teeth that are also prone to plaque and gum inflammation. However, you should consult with your dentist to decide what works the best for your teeth and gums.
In addition, if you are looking for a toothpaste for kids, please read my post about the Safest Toothpaste for Kids. Also, for your general education, here is information about the popular Crest Complete Toothpaste.
You can use the code ReadLabels20 for 20% off if you purchase Essential Oxygen toothpaste and their other products on the Essential Oxygen website.
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I don’t think the code works anymore I tried it and it says it isn’t valid.
Hi Dawn! There is no code anymore. This post is waiting for its turn to be updated. Thank you for drawing this to our attention!
I took Irina’s suggestion about the Essential Oxygen toothpaste a few months ago and I’ve never looked back! I have really, really bad gum recession (like really bad). I have always used Sensodyne (out of necessity) for my sensitive teeth, but eventually just applying the Sensodyne to my teeth hurt (literally, just putting it on my teeth cause pain). I have had ZERO pain or sensitivity using the Essential Oxygen toothpaste. I love, love, love the Essential Oxygen toothpaste! I have NEVER found anything that cleans my teeth so well. I can’t believe it. I have been using it for months and have no issues.
Thank you so much, Nickie, for sharing your success story with us. I’m so happy for you! ~Irina
I ‘ve used for 2 months I like it .Great tasting , whitening with natural ingredients No sodium lauryl sulfate or fluoride.
I ordered BR organic toothpaste and would like to try and compare with Davis.
Thank you
Hi
Any idea about Davids toothpaste https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/product/711422/Davids_Natural_Toothpaste_-_Peppermint/
Thank you
It looks like a good one. I do not see any concerning ingredients in it. Where do you buy it? How long have you been using it? What do you like about it? Thank you, Eli! ~Irina
Thank you so much for all your research!!! My doctor said her holistic dentist recommends Periopaste. I didn’t see anyone else comment on this toothpaste and I was just wondering your thoughts?
Periopaste Toothpaste 3 Tube Value Pak https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00SK66GQ8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_EouHCbV89DJ48
Jamie, I don’t see ingredients posted on Amazon. ~Irina
O dear. The multipack didn’t have the ingredients I’m sorry. Here’s the correct link:
PerioPaste™ Organic Toothpaste 4oz Tube https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003NNBDAW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_6eOHCb4YM4Y5C
Hi, Jamie: from a quick look, I do not see any red flags. I believe I tried it a few years ago and did not like its texture. It did not seem to clean my teeth well. Let me know what you think if you try it. ~Irina
Ok great thank you for your input!!
Have you tried Radius? It’s a coconut oil organic toothpaste. They are available in Wholefoods and some natural online shop.
No, I have not. I have seen Radius in our local health food store. They look good. Is it what you use? How do you like their toothpaste? Have a nice weekend! ~Irina
Yes that’s what I’m using now. I started with their floss first which is good then I discover they also have toothpaste (also has one for kids). I looked at the ingredients, seems ok to me haha. I need few days to adjust to the texture and smell, but otherwise I have no problem. They aren’t as smooth as traditional toothpaste but once you get used to it, it’s fine.
Have you heard of Apagard Toothpaste produced by Sangi Co. out of Japan? It has components that are said to remineralize your teeth. Might you be able to do a write up/review of it? It seems to be a very popular toothpaste on Amazon.
Thanks for your work,
Gershon
Thanks for your reply Irina. I can appreciate you giving us the reason you assume that causes their deficiency but that does not change the FACT that they are deficient in their operations. We know everything in life has a cause but personally I’m not interested in the causes but the solutions and the clear understanding of what I need to keep away from to protect my health. And as we can see they are deficient in this critical department providing no help whatsoever and making us to want to keep away from their product.
Having been an owner of a business myself I always say if you have something good and/or unique and beneficial in your products it will be all over the package in big red letters but if you have to hunt all over a package to find something BE SURE they are hiding something or do not have what you are looking for. Take sugar for example. Some people call it over 30 different names in the hope the user will never recognize that its SUGAR! To me that is a criminal offense trying to deceive the uninformed public and maybe even create a problem for a diabetic. The law should be more strict in this area. In any case I will stay away from their products until they can be more transparent in their ingredients and product overall.
PS: you say slow responsiveness but they never gave you the answer you had to figure it out from your analysis.
Hi, James: Essential Oxygen just reported that INCI names are on the new packaging and added the screenshot of the new packaging to the post. They will be updating their website, too. Please take a look. Thank you. ~Irina
Hi Irina,
What is your opinion of using a mix of coconut oil, baking soda & peppermint oil as toothpaste?
Thank you!
Hi, Tess: sounds good, except that there are beneficial minerals for remineralization. ~Irina
I use Life Extension tooth paste . Have you heard of it? It has only beneficial ingredients.
I’m surprised in your analysis of Guar. you say its listed on the package as organic. Isn’t the whole toothpaste certified organic (all its ingredients) organic? Also if you are talking to the company on your analysis can they just give you a straight answer of which Guar they are using? I thought this is what you do by reviewing the product for us. I find it very deceiving that they do not use the standard INCI names. It seems like an immediate red flag. Why would they do this? Why would they not identify the organic products being used in their website.
For me there are too many red flags to use this company for any products they make. They seem to have a hidden agenda. I like TOTAL TRANSPARENCY in a company. Not having to guess or get information like pulling teeth.
You do a great job for us revealing all these facts and its up to us to interpret them correctly. Just knowing they did not give you the info on Guar and you had to guess at which one they are in fact using is enough to stay away!
Again thanks for your good job. Also there are many other good organic toothpastes out there you may want to analyze. I understand there a re too many but i would look into the one Life Extension has they are total Transparent about their products and even have professional health technicians and even doctors that would explain to you any doubts.
Thanks, James. In this case, I was not as picky as I had the benefit of the box and the USDA certified organic seal. In order to receive the organic certification, at least 95% of ingredients have to be organic, not 100%. I believe the reason of their slow responsiveness is that Essential Oxygen did not dedicate enough resources to customer service and the CEO was unavailable to fulfill the lack of customer service. ~Irina
Thank you, Irina! I emailed them to confirm that this is safe for crowns before I ordered and it is. This is a great toothpaste and, compared to what I’ve paid for others so far, a great price for the quality. I found it a struggle to get Dr. Bronner’s out of the tube. I really appreciate all the work you do for us!
Thank you so much for sharing, Joanne! You made my day! Did you use the discount code ReadLabels20 to get 20% off? ~Irina
Hi, Irina
Have you tried Vermont Soap Extra Strength Neem Toothsalt? The ingredients are: Sea Salt (Sodium Chloride), USP Sodium Bicarbonate (Sodium Bicarbonate), 5% Organic Neem Leaf (Azadirachta indica), Peppermint Oil (Mentha Piperita). I’ve been using it for a long time and really like it.
Judy
That looks good. Thank you for letting us know, Judy. How do you use it? Is it liquid? ~Irina
It’s a powder. I think you’re supposed to sprinkle it on your toothbrush from a hole in the cap, but I just take the cap off, dump some in my hand, and pick it up easily with a wet toothbrush. They have some other products I love, like their Unscented Foaming Hand Soap and their Pet Shampoo.
What do you think about this toothpaste for children? I have a 4 and 2 yo and would like to find something they will tolerate. Thanks!
I do not think they would like it. My son can’t tolerate any peppermint or herbal flavors, even mild ones. ~Irina
What toothpaste do you use for your children that you trust Irina? Thank you for this post!
Hi, Lindsay: my guy tolerates only a strawberry flavor so my choices are limited. We have used this one. What do you think? ~Irina
I have been using Dr. Brite, toothpaste and mouthwash! I like it quite well! Have you heard of this product?
Hi, Margaret: I am still hesitant about activated charcoal. How long have you been using it? What do you like about it? ~Irina
I have had great results with BR Essential Oxygen toothpaste. I have had super sensitive teeth for years, and this does wonders for the sensitivity. Way better than Sensodyne! I started getting mild yellowness from my daily coffee, so I started adding the BR polish powder twice a day, which solved the problem but continued the good results for my sensitivity.
Thank you so much for sharing your experience with Essential Oxygen products with us, Tina! ~Irina