What is a Natural Toothpaste?

A natural toothpaste uses ingredients sourced from nature. These may include plant extracts, minerals, essential oils, and naturally-occurring active elements like nano-hydroxyapatite which is known for its remineralizing effects and protection against tooth decay.¹ Most importantly, these formulas typically avoid artificial sweeteners or synthetic chemicals like parabens, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), and other harsh agents.

The goal of this type of toothpaste is to offer a gentler, more natural alternative to oral hygiene - one that does not compromise efficacy. Many also aim to be environmentally-friendly and non-toxic.

That being said, it’s worth bearing in mind the following disclaimer: unlike the term “organic” which is regulated by the USDA or United States Department of Agriculture, the term “natural” has no strict regulatory definition for personal care products.² Which means what qualifies as natural toothpaste can vary by brand.

Common ingredients in natural toothpastes

There is no fixed set of ingredients in natural toothpastes. However, we have listed below those typically selected for properties that contribute to optimal oral hygiene: 

• Green tea extracts: EGCG, or epigallocatechin gallate, is a catechin or antioxidant found in green tea. It has been found to neutralize volatile sulfur compounds in the mouth, which are a major cause of bad breath.³
• Hydrated silica: a gentle abrasive used in toothpaste to clean and polish the teeth. Significantly, it is compatible with most active ingredients including nano-hydroxyapatite, which we discuss below.⁴
• Essential oils: Menthol or peppermint oil is commonly used for flavor and its added antibacterial properties, as is spearmint and tea tree oil.
• Hydroxyapatite: Hydroxyapatite is chemically similar to the mineral component of human teeth and bones. Research has shown it can improve tooth color, help reduce dental sensitivity, and promote enamel repair, making it a key ingredient in natural toothpastes.⁵ Hydroxyapatite, combined with hydrated silica, achieves superior cleaning that will keep teeth bright. Significantly, it offers a viable alternative to fluoride. 

Antioxidant Formulation

PerioSciences has developed a powerful, patented antioxidant formula - the natural antioxidants Phloretin and Ferulic Acid work together synergistically to neutralize free radicals from peroxide, nicotine, alcohol, and metals. They also work synergistically with catechins from green tea for maximum antioxidant effect on teeth. That’s an entire system of ingredients working together in harmony. The result is a gentle yet highly effective way to maintain a healthy-looking smile without harsh chemicals.

What Is a Natural Fluoride-Free Toothpaste?

A natural fluoride-free toothpaste avoids using fluoride, which is a mineral known to strengthen enamel and prevent cavities. While fluoride is endorsed by major health bodies including the American Dental Association (ADA), some people prefer to avoid it. We cover this in greater detail in our post: “Is fluoride toothpaste bad for you?”

Regardless, fluoride-free alternatives often rely on ingredients like hydroxyapatite. This is because research shows:

• Hydroxyapatite reduces early enamel lesions and reduces or prevents demineralization, which is when minerals are lost from the hard tissues of the tooth, making the tooth more susceptible to decay.
• Hydroxyapatite appears to demonstrate either its superiority or equivalency to fluoride toothpaste as an anti-caries or anti-cavity agent.⁶

So, if you’re searching for a natural fluoride-free toothpaste, then make sure its ingredients include hydroxyapatite.

Does Natural Toothpaste Work?

Yes, natural toothpaste can be effective - depending on the formulation. Products that include scientifically supported ingredients like hydroxyapatite and certain plant-derived antioxidants have demonstrated efficacy in clinical and in-vitro studies. They can reduce plaque, neutralize odor-causing bacteria, and promote enamel health.⁷

However, it’s important to be selective. Not every natural formula has been clinically validated, and some may lack active ingredients that protect against cavities. Look for options backed by research and, ideally, recommended by dentists. When in doubt, turn to your dentist.

Potential Drawbacks of Natural Toothpaste

While natural toothpaste offers a gentler alternative for those looking to avoid certain synthetic chemicals, there are important considerations to keep in mind before making the switch. One of the main drawbacks is that many natural toothpastes are formulated without fluoride. For those at higher risk of tooth decay, a lack of fluoride can increase vulnerability to enamel demineralization and cavities - which is why hydroxyapatite is such an important ingredient to keep an eye out for in natural toothpaste.

Another potential drawback is that natural toothpastes often use milder abrasives and cleaning agents, which may not remove plaque and surface stains as effectively as conventional products, potentially leading to tartar buildup over time.

Lastly, it’s important to note that even natural ingredients, such as essential oils or herbal extracts, can sometimes trigger allergic reactions or sensitivities in certain users. Because the term “natural” is not strictly regulated, formulations and efficacy can vary significantly between brands. For these reasons, you should carefully review ingredient lists, consider your individual oral health needs, and consult a dental professional before switching to a natural toothpaste.

Discover your next natural hydroxyapatite toothpaste

If you’re looking for a science-backed natural toothpaste that checks all the right boxes, consider AO ProToothpaste Natural.

It features an advanced formula that combines powerful antioxidants like phloretin, ferulic acid, and green tea catechins (EGCG) with hydroxyapatite and hydrated silica that work synergistically for thorough, non-abrasive cleaning. It’s fluoride-free, but formulated to support enamel health, reduce sensitivity, and fight plaque - all without any harsh chemicals or artificial sweeteners.

AO ProToothpaste Natural includes seabuckthorn oil and perilla extract, which help maintain a healthy oral environment and combat odor-causing bacteria. It also features Plasdone, a stain-lifting polymer that removes coffee and tea stains without peroxides or abrasives. The result is a clean, refreshing experience that’s gentle enough for daily use but potent in performance.

Try our natural toothpaste, or view our natural dental care products for more options.

References

1. Nano-hydroxyapatite and its applications in preventive, restorative and regenerative dentistry: a review of literature, PubMed Central
2. Organic on Food Labels, FDA
3. Green tea extract and its major constituent epigallocatechin-3-gallate inhibit growth and halitosis-related properties of Solobacterium moorei, BMC
4. Baking soda as an abrasive in toothpastes, The Journal of the American Dental Association
5. Hydroxyapatite Dental Material, National Library of Medicine
6. The use of hydroxyapatite toothpaste to prevent dental caries, PubMed Central
7. Hydroxyapatite as an active ingredient in oral care: an international symposium report, ScienceDirect