Interest in natural toothpaste has grown quickly as more people look for healthier, lower-impact personal care products. Searches like what is natural toothpaste, what toothpaste is natural, and what is the best natural toothpaste reflect a growing curiosity, but also a lot of confusion. With marketing terms like “clean,” “non-toxic,” or “all natural toothpaste” appearing everywhere, it’s not always clear what’s genuinely natural and what’s simply branding.
This guide breaks down what natural toothpaste actually means, how it differs from conventional formulas, whether you can make your own, and how to choose the best natural toothpaste for your needs.
What Is Natural Toothpaste?
There is no single legal definition of natural toothpaste, but in general, the term refers to toothpaste made primarily with naturally derived ingredients rather than synthetic chemicals or artificial additives.
Most natural toothpastes avoid:
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Artificial colors
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Artificial flavors
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Synthetic preservatives like parabens
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SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate)
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Triclosan
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Artificial sweeteners like saccharin
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Petroleum-derived ingredients
Instead, all natural toothpaste formulas commonly rely on ingredients such as:
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Calcium carbonate or hydrated silica (for gentle polishing)
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Coconut oil
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Baking soda
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Essential oils like peppermint, tea tree, or spearmint
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Aloe vera
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Xylitol (a natural sweetener shown to inhibit bacteria)
Some natural toothpaste includes fluoride, while others do not. Fluoride itself is naturally occurring, but whether it appears in “natural” formulas depends on the brand’s philosophy and the consumer’s preference.
What Toothpaste Is Natural? Understanding Labels vs. Reality
When people search what toothpaste is natural, they often expect a simple yes/no list. But natural toothpaste sits on a spectrum:
1. Truly natural formulas
These rely almost entirely on naturally sourced ingredients and avoid synthetic additives. Examples include toothpaste tablets made with minimal ingredients or brands that use plant oils, minerals, and botanicals.
2. Naturally leaning formulas
These are mostly plant- or mineral-based but still use a few safe synthetics for stability or performance.
3. Conventional formulas marketed as “natural”
Some brands highlight one natural ingredient while still including artificial colors, petrochemicals, or preservatives. This is where greenwashing becomes common.
To identify natural toothpaste that aligns with your values, look for:
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Short ingredient lists
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Recognizable ingredients
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Certifications (e.g., EWG Verified, COSMOS, USDA Organic)
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Clear statements about what the formula excludes
If a brand uses vague language like “with natural extracts,” check the full ingredient list.
Benefits of Natural Toothpaste
While the best toothpaste is the one that keeps your teeth healthy, many people choose natural toothpaste for reasons such as:
1. Fewer synthetic irritants
People with sensitive gums or prone to canker sores often prefer formulas without SLS or artificial flavors.
2. Cleaner ingredient profile
Some wish to avoid preservatives, dyes, or artificial sweeteners for health or preference reasons.
3. More sustainable packaging
Many natural toothpaste brands use recyclable tubes, glass jars, aluminum containers, or toothpaste tablets that eliminate plastic tubes entirely.
4. Plant-based flavoring
Peppermint and spearmint essential oils offer a clean, refreshing taste without artificial additives.
What Is the Best Natural Toothpaste?
There is no single universal answer to what is the best natural toothpaste, because it depends on your needs. Instead, think of natural toothpaste in categories:
1. Best natural toothpaste with fluoride
For cavity prevention, a natural formula that includes fluoride (or hydroxyapatite) may be best.
2. Best all natural toothpaste without fluoride
For those avoiding fluoride, look for remineralizing alternatives such as nano-hydroxyapatite or calcium-based formulas.
3. Best natural toothpaste for sensitive teeth
Look for:
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Aloe vera
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Chamomile
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Potassium nitrate (in some natural-leaning formulas)
4. Best natural toothpaste tablets
Tablets reduce plastic waste and travel well. They’re often considered among the most sustainable options.
5. Best natural whitening toothpaste
Whitening in natural formulas usually comes from:
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Baking soda
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Hydrated silica
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Activated charcoal (used cautiously)
How to Make Natural Toothpaste at Home
DIY searches like how to make natural toothpaste are increasingly popular, but it’s important to approach homemade recipes safely.
A basic natural toothpaste recipe may include:
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2 tablespoons coconut oil (base)
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1 tablespoon baking soda (gentle abrasive)
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5–10 drops peppermint essential oil (flavor)
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1 teaspoon xylitol (optional, for sweetness + antibacterial benefits)
Mix until smooth and store in a sealed jar.
Important considerations for homemade toothpaste
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Baking soda can be abrasive if overused.
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Essential oils should be used sparingly.
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Homemade toothpaste may not provide remineralization benefits like fluoride or hydroxyapatite.
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Bacterial contamination risk increases if fingers are dipped into the jar. Always use a clean utensil.
DIY toothpastes are fine for short-term use, but for long-term oral health, most dentists recommend using a formula with proven remineralizing ingredients.
Are natural toothpastes effective?
Effectiveness depends on formulation, not the word “natural.”
Look for:
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Hydroxyapatite (a dentist-approved enamel-supporting ingredient)
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Fluoride (if desired)
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Xylitol (clinically shown to reduce cavity-causing bacteria)
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Gentle abrasives instead of harsh scrubbing agents
Avoid natural toothpastes that rely solely on coconut oil pulling or baking soda. These may clean the mouth temporarily but won’t remineralize enamel.
Choosing the Right All Natural Toothpaste
When comparing products and searching for the best natural toothpaste, consider:
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Your stance on fluoride
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Sensitivity level
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Whitening needs
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Packaging preferences (plastic-free, recyclable, refillable)
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Certifications or ingredient transparency
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Avoidance of allergens or essential oils, if sensitive
The ideal natural toothpaste strikes a balance between clean ingredients, oral health efficacy, and responsible packaging.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're curious about what toothpaste is natural, trying to understand what is natural toothpaste, or searching for the best natural toothpaste for everyday use, the key is knowing what to look for in both ingredients and packaging. Natural toothpaste can offer a cleaner, gentler alternative to conventional formulas, and when paired with sustainable packaging, it supports better choices for your health and the planet.
At Shifting Gaia, we evaluate brand selling oral care products through our sustainability rubric so consumers can make informed, confident decisions. Small swaps, like choosing all natural toothpaste, can create meaningful change in daily routines, and reduce long-term waste in the process.
