The Complete Guide to Natural Toothpaste: What Actually Works and What to Avoid

Natural toothpaste has exploded in popularity in recent years, as more people look for safer ingredients, low-waste options, and formulas that support long-term oral health. But as the natural oral-care market grows, so does the confusion: which ingredients truly help? Which ones are just marketing? And how do you choose a natural toothpaste that is genuinely good for your teeth… not just “free from chemicals”?

This guide cuts through the noise. Whether you’re switching from a conventional toothpaste or researching better options for your family, here’s everything you need to know before choosing a natural toothpaste that actually works.

What Is Natural Toothpaste?

Natural toothpaste typically refers to formulas that use gentle, plant-based or mineral-based ingredients in place of artificial foaming agents, dyes, and synthetic preservatives. These products often prioritise:

• Cleaner, simpler ingredient lists

• Biodegradable or plastic-free packaging

• Low-impact manufacturing

• Gentle formulations suitable for sensitive teeth or gums

But natural doesn’t always mean effective — and many products labelled “natural” skip essential ingredients for enamel health.

Why People Switch to Natural Toothpaste

1. Avoiding harsh foaming agents (like SLS)

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is widely used in conventional toothpaste but is known to cause mouth irritation in many people. Natural alternatives use milder foaming agents or avoid foaming entirely.

2. Reducing exposure to unnecessary additives

Many standard toothpastes contain artificial colours, flavours, and synthetic preservatives. These don’t improve oral health — they’re simply aesthetic.

3. Eco-friendly packaging

Natural brands often use aluminium, glass, or compostable packaging to help reduce plastic waste.

4. Gentler for sensitive teeth or gums

Harsh abrasives or foaming agents can strip enamel or irritate soft tissues. Natural toothpastes often prioritise milder ingredients.

Natural Toothpaste Ingredients That Actually Work

A truly effective natural toothpaste should support three pillars of oral health:

• Enamel protection
• Healthy oral microbiome
• Fresh breath + plaque reduction

Here are the science-backed ingredients to look for.

1. Glycerine (Yes, It Is Safe): There’s a lot of misinformation online, but studies show glycerine does not coat teeth or prevent remineralisation. It’s a humectant that keeps toothpaste stable, spreads active ingredients evenly, and helps maintain moisture. Zerolla uses high-quality, plant-derived glycerine - and we explain exactly why it’s there.
   
   
2. Calcium Carbonate: These help remove plaque mechanically without damaging enamel. Avoid natural toothpastes that rely on harsh abrasives like charcoal, which can wear enamel over time.
   
   
3. Diatomaceous Earth: Effective yet gentle, ideal for a smooth polish and brightening effect.
   
4. Natural Flavourings (Peppermint, Spearmint, Lemon): Instead of synthetic flavours or chemical sweeteners.
   
   
5. Optional Remineralising Ingredients: If a natural toothpaste contains fluoride or hydroxyapatite (nHAp), it supports enamel more directly - but many prefer fluoride-free options. Zerolla currently focuses on gentle, natural cleaning, with active formulas under development.

Ingredients to Avoid in “Natural” Toothpaste

Not all natural toothpaste is created equal. Avoid ones that rely on:

❌ Charcoal-heavy formulas

Highly abrasive, can erode enamel and cause sensitivity.

❌ Essential oil overload

Strong concentrations can disturb the microbiome or irritate gums.

❌ Baking soda-heavy products

Can be too abrasive for long-term use.

❌ Products with no explanation of ingredient purpose

If a brand doesn’t tell you why an ingredient is there, that’s a red flag.

How Natural Toothpaste Compares to Conventional Toothpaste

Bottom line: natural toothpastes can be just as effective, or better, when formulated well.

How to Choose the Best Natural Toothpaste (Dentist-Aligned Checklist)

When testing or comparing natural brands, ask:

✔ Does it use gentle abrasives?

Avoid charcoal-heavy formulas.

✔ Does the brand clearly explain each ingredient?

Transparency is key.

✔ Does it suit your dental needs?

Sensitive gums? Kids? Whitening? Pick a formula that fits.

✔ Is the packaging truly sustainable and recyclable?

Look for aluminium, glass, or compostable materials.

✔ Does it support your oral microbiome?

Avoid harsh detergents or essential oil overload.

Why Zerolla’s Natural Toothpaste Takes a Different Approach

Most natural toothpaste brands focus only on what they don’t include.

At Zerolla, we focus on what your oral health needs.

🟢 Ingredient-Honest

We explain every ingredient’s purpose in plain language. No greenwashing, no mystery.

🟢 Gentle, Effective Cleaning

Our formulas use dentist-approved mild abrasives to clean plaque without wearing away enamel.

🟢 Science-Aligned + Safe for Families

We align with modern dentistry, including functional dental insights, microbiome-friendly principles, and ingredient transparency.

🟢 Planet-Considerate Packaging

Designed to reduce waste without compromising product stability or hygiene.

🟢 Great Taste & Texture

Natural toothpaste shouldn’t feel like a compromise. Zerolla is smooth, fresh, and easy to use.

FAQs About Natural Toothpaste

Does natural toothpaste work as well as regular toothpaste?

Yes, when formulated with the right cleaning ingredients and safe abrasives, natural toothpaste is highly effective at plaque removal.

Is fluoride necessary?

Great question. Fluoride is highly effective for cavity prevention, but many families prefer fluoride-free options. Natural toothpastes can still be effective when they use strong mechanical cleaning and enamel-safe formulas. Zerolla is developing future options to support both preferences.

Can kids use natural toothpaste?

Absolutely. In fact, gentle natural formulas can be easier on young gums.

Is glycerine bad for teeth?

No. Glycerine does not block remineralisation. It’s a widely used, safe humectant — and we explain exactly why we use it.

Thinking of Switching to Natural Toothpaste? Start Here.

If you’re new to natural oral care, begin with a toothpaste that:

• Cleans well

• Is microbiome-friendly

• Uses gentle textures

• Is supported by transparent ingredient explanations

• Comes in packaging you feel good about

Zerolla was created to make that switch effortless.

👉 Explore Zerolla Natural Toothpaste
Your teeth, gums, and the planet will thank you.