Having written about the importance of oral care in the past and shared an insightful article by holistic dentist, Dr Aushi Patel on of the vital function of oral microbiome, we were very excited to trial and review the vegan friendly Grin oral care.
We all know that our oral cavity is the entry point to our digestive systems and the gateway to our bodies, yet its true significance is not always appreciated.
For example, there has long been an established link between gum health and heart health, thought primarily to be due to chronic inflammation.
In addition, with the increasing knowledge of Epigenetics, we are learning that our health is greatly influenced by environment or conditions. In fact, this principle applies to all systems in the body, including the oral cavity, which is teaming with life in the form of a wide array of bacteria, collectively known as the oral microbiome. According to studies, disturbances to the delicate balance of this microbiome in our mouths may even contribute to auto immune conditions such as Lupus, Crohns and Sjogren’s Syndrome.
As the environment can alter the bacterial balance in our mouths, it is important to know examples of conditions which have the potential to initiate such changes. This includes diet, smoking and certain ingredients commonly found in oral care products.
Oral care has a very important role in the maintenance of healthy gums and teeth, however not all oral care is the same. Common ingredients include Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (a chemical foaming detergent), triclosan, (a chemical anti-bacterial agent), parabens (preservatives) and artificial sweeteners. These are not ingredients we should be putting in our mouths!
Apart from the potential alterations to the oral microbiome and saliva production, the mucosa in the mouth also has absorption capacity, meaning we may be delivering these chemicals directly to other systems in the body.
By contrast, Grin products contain all natural ingredients. We trialed Grin natural strengthening toothpaste, with hydroxyapatite to assist in remineralising teeth, as well as helping to repair and strengthen enamel. Hydroxyapatite (HAP) is a naturally occurring calcium phosphate mineral, forming a significant proportion of bone and teeth. With its chemical composition closely resembling tooth enamel, HAP has been the subject of a number of studies, demonstrating its restorative capacity and an ability to not only protect and prevent decay, but even reverse and remineralise early stages of cavity formation.
Grin natural strengthening toothpaste does not contain fluoride, sodium laurel sulphate, parabens, triclosan, artificial sweeteners or palm oil. Instead, natural anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory substances are used such as sea salt, and herbs, including Magnolia bark. The sea salt helps to balance the pH in our mouths, creating a healthy oral environment.
The wider environment in which we live, our planet and the species we share the planet with is also carefully considered in Grin products. Toothbrushes and floss picks are made with biodegradable non-GMO corn starch, whilst the bristles are infused with activated charcoal. We certainly don’t need more plastic brushes ending up in landfill or our oceans. No palm oil is used in the Grin products, respecting and preserving the habitat of the orangutans.
Our experience of actually using Grin products lived up to our already high expectations, with the subtle yet refreshing mint flavour of the toothpaste leaving breath feeling fresh and mouth clean. We are delighted to have found this product as an alternative to the more ‘mainstream’ oral care products on the market.
