Insights from Dentist Dr Francis Chohan
Over the last few years, oral care has been moving away from its old, clinical reputation and towards something far more holistic: the understanding that our mouths are living ecosystems. At the heart of this shift is the oral microbiome - a delicate community of bacteria that plays a powerful role in our overall health.
Below, dentist Dr Francis Chohan shares why the oral microbiome deserves more attention, what ingredients support (or disrupt) it, and how Laro’s natural hydroxyapatite toothpaste fits into the movement towards gentler, microbiome-friendly oral care.
What Is the Oral Microbiome - and Why Does It Matter?
“Your oral microbiome is a living ecosystem, made up of good bacteria living in your mouth. This ecosystem, protects you from harmful viruses and infections. We are learning more and more about the clever mechanisms that our mouth has to help our digestion and support our immune system.”
This living system works constantly - supporting digestion, defending against pathogens, and helping maintain the balance that keeps your mouth healthy. When treated gently, it works in harmony. When disrupted by harsh chemicals, it becomes vulnerable.
How Laro Supports a Healthy Oral Microbiome
“Laro is a natural toothpaste that supports your enamel and promotes a healthy mouth without exposing your body to toxic ingredients. Laro is free from sulphates that can irritate the lining of your mouth and cause eczema on the corners of your lips. Instead of using flouride, Laro provides cavity protection with a clever, well tested natural mineral called hydroxyapatite.”
Laro’s approach centres on removing ingredients that overwhelm the oral environment - like sulphates and unnecessary preservatives - while adding ingredients that nourish, protect and rebuild.
The Science Behind Hydroxyapatite
“A recent study published here has shown how effective hydroxyapatite is at preventing acid erosion and protecting your tooth enamel from sugars. Not to mention it’s the key ingredient in all tooth products to stop sensitivity.”
Hydroxyapatite is one of the most researched enamel-supporting minerals, and its resurfacing abilities are well documented. Rather than masking sensitivity, it addresses the root cause by reinforcing enamel structure.
What Is Hydroxyapatite - and Why Is It a Good Substitute for Fluoride?
“Hydroxyapatite is a naturally occurring mineral that is found in our own bodies. It has been proven to repair damage to our enamel ( the outer coating of our teeth) and is a key player in stopping tooth sensitivity, a really common problem for adults. Hydroxyapatite toothpastes support the oral microbiome because they are gentle on the delicate tissues of the mouth.”
This gentle action is one of the reasons hydroxyapatite is gaining global popularity. It strengthens without disrupting the oral microbiome - a crucial difference when compared with some harsher mainstream formulations.
Why Dentists Recommend Toothpastes Like Laro
“Laro toothpaste provides natural cavity protection without exposing your mouth or your body to harsh chemicals or preservatives.”
“As a dentist I am always looking for ways to encourage good oral hygiene while also boosting my patients' oral microbiome. Laro offers a solution for people who are concerned with the chemicals in our environment, but don't want to compromise on tooth protection. Combining a natural hydroxyapatite toothpaste with a good diet and good hydration not only benefits your mouth but your whole body.”
This blend of protection and gentleness is becoming increasingly important as more patients seek products aligned with their wider wellness choices.
Oral Health Trends
“As we learn more and more about the chemicals around us in our food, drinks and cosmetics we are collectively becoming more mindful about what goes in our bodies. This is a good thing as we all know removing toxins from our daily lives benefits us in the long term. I expect we will see more of the science being published about natural ways to heal our bodies, Laro uses coconut oil and essential oils that we all know have healing abilities without being harsh on the soft lining of our mouths. As Laro has proven, we don't have to grab the biggest brand on the shelf, instead we can make more mindful decisions about what products we use, without compromising on our health. The mouth is one of the most sensitive areas of our bodies and it does so much for us, its about time we took the harsh chemicals out of our toothpastes.”
As consumer awareness grows, the shift towards natural, microbiome-supportive oral care is set to accelerate. Laro’s approach - pairing modern science with gentle, natural ingredients - is perfectly aligned with this next chapter in oral wellness.