The world of oral health is undergoing a transformation, with more people questioning traditional dental care ingredients and seeking alternatives that support both their oral microbiome and overall wellness. In a recent episode of The RAISE Podcast, biological dentist Dr. Seb and his wife Ally provided fascinating insights into how we can optimize our oral care routines for better long-term health. One of their key recommendations? Switching to hydroxyapatite-based toothpaste and eliminating SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate) from our products.
Key Takeaways from The RAISE Podcast
In this episode, Dr. Seb, a leading biological dentist, and his wife Ally delve into the intricate connections between oral health and overall well-being. They discuss how daily dental routines, such as the use of fluoride and mouthwash, might be adversely affecting our health. The episode also highlights the dangers of mouth breathing, particularly its impact on childhood development, and emphasizes the importance of the oral microbiome in achieving total wellness. Additionally, they explore practices like tongue scraping, oil pulling, and mouth taping, evaluating their effectiveness in enhancing health.
Dr. Seb and Ally's insights challenge conventional dental advice, urging listeners to reconsider their oral care routines and their broader health implications.
The Case for Hydroxyapatite: A Natural, Science-Backed Alternative
Dr. Seb is a strong advocate for hydroxyapatite, a naturally occurring mineral that makes up 97% of our tooth enamel. Unlike fluoride, which has been the gold standard in cavity prevention for decades, hydroxyapatite works by actually remineralizing the enamel and repairing microscopic damage, strengthening teeth without the potential risks associated with fluoride overexposure.
Why hydroxyapatite?
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Biocompatibility: Since it’s already found in teeth and bones, the body recognizes and integrates it effectively.
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Non-toxic and safe for all ages: Unlike fluoride, which carries warnings about overuse, hydroxyapatite is safe even if swallowed.
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Supports the oral microbiome: Unlike antimicrobial agents that indiscriminately kill bacteria, hydroxyapatite helps maintain a balanced, healthy microbiome.
Dr. Seb and Ally emphasize that hydroxyapatite toothpaste offers both protection and repair, making it a superior choice for those looking to optimize their dental health naturally.
Why Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) Should Be Avoided
One of the most common (and problematic) ingredients in conventional toothpaste is sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), a foaming agent that has been linked to various oral health concerns. While it helps create the foamy texture many people associate with cleanliness, its potential downsides far outweigh its benefits.
Dr. Seb warns against SLS due to:
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Disrupting the oral microbiome: SLS can alter the delicate bacterial balance in the mouth, leading to increased susceptibility to oral health issues.
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Causing irritation: Many people experience mouth ulcers or gum sensitivity due to the harsh nature of SLS.
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Drying out the mouth: Since saliva plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health, SLS-induced dryness can contribute to bad breath and a higher risk of cavities.
A Shift Toward Smarter Oral Care
Dr. Seb and Ally’s insights align with Laro’s mission of embracing natural, microbiome-friendly oral care solutions. By prioritizing hydroxyapatite and eliminating harmful ingredients like SLS, we can take a more holistic approach to oral health—one that nourishes, protects, and supports overall wellness.
You can read the listen notes of the full podcast here.