It is no secret that the environment is in dire need of protection from humans and the industries we create. Even the most basic thing we do such as brushing and flossing our teeth has a huge impact on the environment. If only we can be more conscious about the way we use these dental products, and which dental products we choose to patronize.
In as much as technology abused the environment, it also one of the reasons humans are making strides in its protection and sustainability. Continuous research into the impact of conventional dental products such as dental floss and excess packaging on the environment paved the way for industries to look into the use of more sustainable materials. Although people are still using conventional dental products, the presence of eco-friendly dental products in the market is helpful for those who want to transition into using them.
How and Where to Find Eco-friendly Dental Products
Whom are you getting it for? You know which kinds of plants you are allergic to, right? Most of these eco-friendly dental products are made from natural herbs and materials. If you have certain aversions to some of the ingredients, then find another brand or product. You should start reading the labels to avoid buying the wrong product.
For your kids, let the pediatric dentist talk to them first. It’s extra hard to make kids want to floss and brush their teeth. More so if they’ll have to change the dental products that they’ve grown accustomed to.
Bamboo Toothbrush
Instead of using plastic toothbrushes, go for a bamboo toothbrush. Their handles are made from biodegradable material so it won’t pollute the earth the way plastic does. Bamboo grows fast, too, making it a sustainable source of material for these products. The bristles used on bamboo toothbrushes are non-toxic and BPA-free nylon.
Avoid Microbeads
These tiny plastic materials called microbeads are in toothpaste, facial scrubs, and body scrubs. Many countries already banned its use because it is harmful to the environment and your health. How do you know a product contains microbeads? The most common terms manufacturers used to hide microbeads are nylon, polyethylene, polypropylene, polylactic acid (PLA), polyethylene terephthalate, and polystyrene. Stay clear of products with these as their ingredients.
Biodegradable Floss
Regular dental floss is made of waxed nylon. Seeing as nylon is one of the harmful materials that environmentalists are warning the world about, you should seek biodegradable dental floss. Made from silk and plant-based wax, biodegradable floss is a more environment-friendly option.
You should also choose to refill the floss instead of buying another one with a container. You can buy refill spools to place in the container instead of throwing the containers after use. These will only end up in landfills.
Toothpaste Tablets
Another zero-waste option is toothpaste tablets. They don’t use plastic for the container. Rather, the tablets come in glass jars. You need to put a tablet on your toothbrush and brush your teeth with it once its wet. This reduces the need for plastic containers. It also allows you to use up all the toothpaste since it is in tablet form.
Always consider how your actions are impacting the environment. Thanks to technology and continuous research and development, people have access to better products. The next time you buy dental products, read the labels and choose the one with the most naturally-derived ingredients.
