I’m noticing a growing trend of people making their own toothpaste and it’s no surprise why. By crafting your own products, you can focus on more natural ingredients. It’s a fantastic way to be more mindful of your oral health and what you’re putting into your body.
Sometimes it’s simply about “what can I use as a substitute” when the tube is squeezed dry and there’s not another to be found in the house.
But in most cases, it’s preferred as a natural alternative to commercial products that are often loaded with artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. By taking the DIY route, you have the freedom to customize the ingredients that perfectly fit your needs.
Whether you prefer a milder flavor, have sensitivities to certain ingredients, or simply crave a specific texture, the DIY process allows you to curate a blend that caters to your unique preferences.
But it’s not just about personalization. The ingredients commonly used in DIY toothpaste, like baking soda and coconut oil, offer fantastic benefits for your oral health.
For example, baking soda has natural properties that help neutralize acids, reduce plaque buildup, and keep your mouth’s pH balance in check.
Similarly, coconut oil brings its own set of benefits, including antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can contribute to a healthier mouth.
Here’s an assortment of recipes and tips for making your own toothpaste; you’ll find a couple of small batch, quick substitutes suitable for last-minute needs, or larger batches for more regular use. You’ll also find a few DIY powders and teeth whiteners that can help get those pearly whites into tip-top shape.
Common Ingredients Found In Homemade Toothpaste
Whether you’re looking to brighten your smile, enjoy a burst of refreshing flavor, or embrace a more natural approach to oral health, getting to know these common ingredients will give you the power to create toothpaste that’s just right for you.
- Baking Soda: Bicarb brings its natural cleansing and whitening properties to the forefront. It helps neutralize acids in your mouth and gently polishes your teeth, leaving them fresh and clean.
- Coconut Oil: Known for its antimicrobial properties, coconut oil adds a touch of richness to your toothpaste while keeping harmful bacteria at bay. It also helps moisturize your gums and leaves your mouth feeling nourished. It also helps with adding a creamy texture.
- Sea Salt: This acts as a natural abrasive, aiding in removing plaque and surface stains. Plus, it provides a burst of mineral goodness for your oral health.
- Essential Oils: Just a tiny amount goes a long way for a burst of flavor and freshness. Flavorings such as peppermint, spearmint, or cinnamon add that familiar, refreshing kick to your toothpaste. Other excellent additions would be tea tree, eucalyptus, or clove. Remember to use “food grade” EOs.
- Hydrogen Peroxide: With its antibacterial properties, hydrogen peroxide can help kill bacteria in the mouth, promoting a healthier oral environment. It is also believed to have teeth-whitening effects.
- Xylitol: This is a natural sweetener that can help enhance the taste. It has been found to reduce the risk of tooth decay by inhibiting the growth of bacteria that cause cavities.
- Bentonite Clay: This is highly absorbent and is believed to help remove impurities and toxins from the teeth. It also provides a smooth texture to the paste.
- Clove Powder: Has natural antiseptic properties and can help soothe gum inflammation. It also adds a hint of warm, spicy flavor.
- Turmeric: Contains a compound called curcumin, which exhibits antimicrobial properties that can help inhibit the growth of bacteria in the mouth, reducing the risk of dental issues like plaque formation, gum inflammation, and bad breath. It has also been used traditionally as a natural teeth whitener.
- Cinnamon Powder: It has antimicrobial properties and can help freshen breath. It adds a sweet and spicy taste.
- Neem Powder: This has been used in traditional oral care for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It can help fight bacteria, reduce plaque, and promote healthy gums.
- Calcium Carbonate: A mineral that is believed to help remineralize tooth enamel, making it stronger and more decay-resistant. It also provides a gentle abrasive action for cleaning teeth.
- Aloe Vera Gel: Contains soothing properties and can help promote healthy gums. It also adds a smooth consistency to toothpaste.
Be aware that some abrasive ingredients, like baking soda or activated charcoal, may damage your teeth’ enamel if used too aggressively. Enamel is the protective outer layer of your teeth, and excessive abrasion can lead to sensitivity and weakened enamel over time.
Recipes For Homemade Toothpaste & Powders
When using a new recipe for toothpaste, it’s important to be alert for any changes in your oral health. If you start experiencing unusual sensitivity, discomfort, or any other concerns, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist for guidance.
Two Quick & Easy Small Batch Options
These are ideal for “in a pinch” scenarios when you need something fast that doesn’t require a bunch of ingredients.
An old-fashioned favorite:
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp hydrogen peroxide
Here’s another common one:
- 1 TBS coconut oil
- 1 TBS baking soda
Directions For Both: Mix together before using.
You’re in control of how much of each ingredient is used, so feel free to adjust until you achieve the desired consistency.
To help with flavor, add a drop of essential oil like mint, cinnamon, or orange.
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This tooth powder is super easy to whip up & has a long storage life. Contains Bentonite clay, baking soda, Xylitol (for sweetness), and a few drops of essential oil for flavor.
Source: thethingswellmake.com
A tooth powder made with Bentonite clay, activated charcoal, baking soda, cinnamon, Xyliton, and several drops of essential oil (recommends peppermint or Thieves).
Source: frugalfarmwife.com
This one’s loaded with ingredients but feel free to adjust as needed. Includes unrefined sea salt, clove powder, ground cinnamon, ground peppermint leaves, unrefined stevia poser, and activated charcoal.
Source: mommypotamus.com
Minty sweet powder uses four simple ingredients: baking soda, stevia, coconut oil, and peppermint EO. Sounds so refreshing!
Source: reformationacres.com
This is from an old bookmark & it’s an interesting alternative. Instead of a powder or paste, these are shaped into little balls to dry. Pop one in your mouth, chew & it will break down, making it suitable for brushing your teeth. Neat concept & ideal for traveling! There’s another recipe below.
Source: webarchive.org (mariasself.com)
This one’s unique in that eggshell powder is one of the main ingredients. All the dry ingredients are blitzed in a blender and then combined with water & peppermint EO. Suitable for storing in jars or silicone squeeze tubes.
Source: frontierhomesteading.com
If you are pregnant or trying to conceive, please check with your doctor since some ingredients & essential oils are unsafe for you to consume during this time.
Storage Tips
Next, let’s ensure that your toothpaste stays fresh and effective for as long as possible. Here are some tips on storing and maintaining your new batch of goodness:
- Choose the Right Storage Container: Opt for a small, airtight jar or tube to protect your toothpaste from air and moisture. This will help maintain its texture and potency over time.
- Tube Tip: Cut open an empty (used) tube, clean out the inside then scoop the freshly made paste into it. Fold over the cut end, then secure with a squeezer or packaging clamp.
- Jars: Baby food jars and mason jars work well for this (just make sure they’re sterilized first).
- Store in a cool, dry location away from direct sun and heat or as directed (some may require refrigeration).
- Keep It Hygienic: Maintaining hygienic practices with your toothpaste is essential.
- Use a clean toothbrush or a clean spatula to scoop out the desired amount of paste each time.
- Consider a jarful for each family member if some aren’t keen on sharing.
- Avoid introducing moisture or contaminants into the jar, which could compromise the product’s effectiveness.
The Fluoride Debate
It’s important to note that homemade solutions typically don’t include fluoride. Fluoride is a mineral that plays a crucial role in preventing tooth decay and strengthening enamel. It’s commonly found in commercial products and is recommended by dental professionals for its cavity-fighting properties.
One of the main concerns raised by critics is the potential for excessive fluoride consumption leading to fluorosis, a condition that affects the appearance of tooth enamel, causing white spots or streaks.
Some individuals worry that fluoride when ingested through toothpaste or water fluoridation, may have adverse effects on overall health.
The decision to use fluoride or fluoride-free products ultimately depends on your personal preferences and dental health goals.
Doing your own research and consulting with your dentist will ensure you’re making informed choices and taking the necessary steps to keep your smile healthy and strong.
DIY Teeth Whiteners
While these can effectively remove surface stains, excessive or aggressive use can potentially damage the tooth enamel. It’s crucial to use these ingredients sparingly and avoid applying excessive pressure while brushing.
Fruity
1 tsp baking soda
1 TBS fresh, mashed strawberries
- Mix, then use to brush.
More:
- Sprinkle baking soda on a lemon wedge, then gently rub upper and lower teeth for 1 minute upper and 1 minute lower. Then brush as usual.
- Don’t do this more than once per week.
- Activated Charcoal: This tip from Wellness Mama advocates using activated charcoal (can get it in powdered or capsule form) to get teeth gleaming white.
I’ve moved the mouthwash recipes here: (just a couple so far). Have The Bad Breath Blues? Good To Know Simple Cures. You’ll also find excellent home remedies for toothaches here: 20+ Toothache Remedies For Pain Relief.
One has to be careful of using the peroxide mixture too much. It might cause”hairy tongue” which is very unsightly.And yes, it looks as if one has black hair growing inside the mouth!
I ADORE the recipe from the Thrifty Soaper (first one listed.) I’ve been using it for several months now, and I feel like my teeth are cleaner than ever. Plus, I no longer get tea stains on my teeth from my daily cup of tea.
The ultimate test was yesterday when I went to my dentist for the first time after switching. I passed with flying colors, and she noticed the whiteness as well as no more sensitivity.
When I make this toothpaste, I add just a few drops of clove oil. I am not sure what restrictions there might be for children and clove oil–it’s powerful stuff–so do research before giving any to your kids.
I highly recommend this.
When you make your toothpaste to the consistency you like, how much of each ingredient do you use for the recipe you love?
Do I have to use peppermint?
I clicked on this out of curiosity. I am a dental hygienist and found some concerns regarding these tips. I am all for making your own products and like to save money as well. However, there is a growing trend in America right now with the decrease in use of fluoride in adults and especially in children. We live in a country where decay should be preventable. Unfortunately with the increase in people drinking bottled water and using reverse osmosis systems, the decay rate has increased. Fluoride is not being consumed in appropriate levels to prevent decay in our children and adults are not receiving the topical fluoride necessary to reduce decay rates.
Making your own toothpaste is a wonderful money saver and can taste really good, but you need to have an appropriate amount of fluoride. Definitely consult with your dentist or dental hygienist before eliminating fluoride from your daily routine. Your provider can prescribe you a fluoride rinse or gel to off set the loss of fluoride in your home made paste.
Also, Using lemons to scrub your teeth to rub out stains is not a good idea. Research shows that when we eat (or rub a lemon on the front of our teeth) the PH level in our mouth becomes very acidic. We have all seen the Sensodyne commercials where the light is placed behind the front teeth and you can see the damage to the enamel. Well, when you are rubbing lemons on the front of your teeth, you are doing just that, damaging your enamel. And, you definitely do not want to go brush immediately after rubbing an acidic lemon on your teeth. The PH level in your mouth becomes very acidic, and research shows that you can damage the tooth surface on microscopic levels up to 30 minutes after such an acidic rush. It is better to either swish with water, chew sugar free gum, or wait 30 minutes before brushing so the PH level can return to neutral. No one wants to end up paying the price later down the road with needing expensive dental work because they caused damage to their teeth. I hope you post this comment and people read it. It is always best to talk to a professional when it comes to your smile!
There has never been a study that proved fluoride prevents cavities or is good for you. It is a terrible toxin.
I am also a dental hygienist. I totally agree 100% with Jill’s response. There are dental university libraries FILLED with data and reputable studies on the efficacy of fluoride. Remember, moderation is key. For now, I will save my dental buck and continue to use a commercial brand of toothpaste.
also fluoride was used in some nasty ways in some nasty wars.
Naturally occurring fluoride is fine. The fluoride used in public water systems (silicofluorides) is a bi-product of industrial waste that is sold to towns and cities on the cheap and with the lie that it is OKAY TO CONSUME (for the most part – unless the people in that locality have spoken up and gotten it changed).
Myssi got it right. Dr. Josef Mengele approved it…for the water in the concentration camps, to keep his guests docile. Of course, there weren’t long-term effects for many of them, but you see the kind of great minds behind the use of Fluoridated water.
Let us mineralize our water/food as we see fit. Or do you think we are sheep and we don’t know better?
Adam is correct about the types of fluoride. Naturally occurring fluoride is much different then what is produced commercially. I, too, am a dental hygienist, but don’t agree with the opinions of Jill or Marybeth. My post below explains why.
Jill, please read about the side affects of fluoride . It is very toxic! I grew up using baking soda for brushing. No one in our family had problems with tooth decay. The key to healthy teeth and gums is just brushing and flossing.
Flouride can be dangerous, research it. Xylitol can be a effective and is safer, research it.
I totally agree and have have practiced dentistry for 36 years.
Fluoride is a neurotoxin and just like many other studyings you need to look at who is behind these studies. Flouride has done more harm than good and actually is very harmful. It is well known that dentist have the highest suicide rates and what do they often deal with…mercury and fluoride…both extremely neourtoxic! Of course you are going to push something that makes you money but for the sake of humanity you need to start researching the reality of these harsh chemicals. We have more cavities as a society than people did when they didn’t use fluoride…let common sense rule your mind!
Most of Europe does not have fluoridated water and they have less tooth decay than the U.S. Feel free to look it up. Fluoride, unless a natural form is nothing but poison. Tooth decay in the U.S. is due to all the junk food people let their kids eat and just pure laziness.
I think the ideas above all sound great although I do have to agree on the lemon tooth scrub regarding the high acid levels.
If you don’t like peppermint oil, try using some non traditional oils like jasmine, sandalwood or clove but use very sparingly. Clove is a great breath refresher.
Have you seen or known a group of people from the UK? No disrespect please but I am married to an Englishman and he and his family have horrible teeth due to lack of care. Also, when we visit his parents and sister, I get to see/meet other people and for the most part have the same. In fact, lately my sister in law has had a horrible tooth and had to get in “line” to be seen:(. I just wanted to throw this in as my opinion based on my experiences:). Again, no disrespect!
Use black walnut tincture or powder to heal small cavities. Works best in children. Put two dropper-fuls in a little water and swish in mouth for a minute or two and swallow. Brush with the powder. Helps with toothache and with healing teeth whether damaged or cavities. It is also a cure for impetigo (see Dr. Christopher’s site) and parasites. It is also a good source of iodine. (From “How to Be Your Own Doctor” by Rachel Weaver 4th Edition). I agree with Jill above – do not use lemon on teeth! Nothing acidic. Clove oil is also good for toothache and as an antibiotic in the mouth.
I cannot believe anyone would recommend the use of Fluoride.
Reduction in cavities as a result of improved dental hygiene; increase in tooth decay related to over-consumption of sugar filled products and fruit juices.Having lived in London I did not notice a higher incidence of decayed teeth. Please read and evaluate the numerous studies which have shown that Fluoride is a dangerous and ineffective addition to water supplies.
I don’t know whose brilliant idea it is to rub lemon on your teeth. Lemon has acid which over time destroys your enamel. Baking soda and lemon together produce a chemical reaction that is BAD for your enamel and leaves a horrid taste in your mouth!! The problem with some frugal ideas is that they are not very brilliant!
I am a registered dental hygienist as well as a certified dental assistant, and have been practicing for 36 years. I couldn’t disagree more, with Jill, on the issue of fluoride. I no longer use fluoride in my mouth and don’t recommend it to my patients. There have been numerous studies, and much information about the toxicity and dangers of fluoride. Some dental hygienists also benefit financially when giving fluoride treatments to kids and adults when they are paid by commission. The more fluoride treatments they perform the more money they make. Xylitol not only doesn’t cause cavities, but actually PREVENTS cavities, and is a much safer ingredient to prevent cavities than fluoride. I brush with xylitol and also use coconut oil and baking soda in my homemade toothpastes.
I do agree that you should not use lemons because of the acidity and etching it will cause on enamel.
Do some research on Dr. Westin A. Price, and you won’t be getting root canals either. The American Dental Association and dental schools in general, are behind the times when it comes to the safety of some dental procedures and products they promote. Dr. Price, DDS and others, have done extensive research on the harmful effects of root canals to the over-all body. The ADA has approved of and taught the use of amalgam (silver) fillings, for decades, and the mercury in those fillings is toxic and releases mercury gases when ever you consume hot foods or liquids. Of course, the ADA and dentists can’t admit they’ve been causing harm all these years for fear of lawsuits. Not to mention the lost revenue by no longer performing some of these procedures. Don’t blame the dentists. they are only doing what they are taught in school…just like i was, Until educating myself, i didn’t know better, and assumed what I had learned in school was safe. You can also find a wealth of good dental information on Dr. Mercola’s website.
Look for a “biological dentist” or at least one that does not use amalgam, one that doesn’t do root canals, and one that is trained on the safe removal of existing silver fillings.
Some will disagree with this information and that’s ok. I have always recommended my patients be their own health care advocate and not blindly give important dental and medical decisions to their doctors before doing research on their own, to find what is best for them. Doctors are only as good as their education and open-mindedness to alternative therapies. If your Dr isn’t open to discussing safer, less invasive options, find one who is. It is always good to discuss home remedies with your doctor before trying something new, but remember, they may say no only because they no nothing about that alternative therapy. Their “no” doesn’t mean the alternative is unsafe, it just means they can’t authorize something they know nothing about. If they say, “no” ask them what research studies helped them come to that conclusion. Often, Drs don’t want to appear uneducated about a topic they know nothing about, and don’t admit they don’t know. They would rather say it doesn’t work or isn’t safe just because it wasn’t taught in their school. By asking questions about how the dr made the decision against an alternative treatment, you can determine if his decision is based on knowledge of the subject or ignorance of that knowledge. A good example of this is when patients ask their dr about a certain diet plan or using herbs. Patients don’t realize that drs don’t get much education in nutrition and you may know much more than they do. Again, search out drs and health care providers who have expanded their education since graduation and are up-to-date on alternative procedures and products.
A side note on controversial issues…you can almost always find a different opinion and even opposing research studies on any given topic. Do your own research and decide what’s BEST FOR YOU. There is no need to try and convince others to your side of the debate. It is every persons right to do what they think is best for them.