SLS stands for sodium lauryl sulfate, a foaming agent commonly found in many household cleaning products including soaps, shampoos and unfortunately many toothpastes.
What’s the problem?
1. It Causes Mouth Ulcers
Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) has been associated with a higher occurrence of mouth ulcers (also known as canker sores or aphthous ulcers), as evidenced by several studies. It is believed that SLS has a denaturing effect on the oral mucin layer, which leads to the exposure of the underlying epithelial tissue. This exposure may contribute to an increased frequency of recurrent mouth ulcers, a condition characterized by painful sores in the mouth. The implications of this finding are significant, as individuals suffering from these ulcers may experience discomfort that can affect their overall quality of life and oral health.
2. It Restricts Tooth Remineralization
Research indicates that sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) may hinder the bioavailability of fluoride, a crucial component in dental care. Studies have demonstrated that as the concentration of lauryl sulfate increases, there is a corresponding decrease in the amount of alkali-soluble fluoride that is deposited onto tooth enamel. Typically, the concentration of SLS found in various dentifrices, commonly referred to as toothpaste, ranges from 0.5% to 2.0%. Given that the primary objective of toothpaste is to deliver topical fluoride effectively, the interference caused by SLS can significantly undermine one of the essential advantages of preventing dental cavities through regular brushing.
So, what should we do?
In light of these considerations, it is advisable for consumers to opt for toothpaste formulations that are free from sodium lauryl sulfate. By making this choice, individuals can potentially avoid the adverse effects associated with SLS while maximizing the oral health benefits that toothpaste is designed to provide. Selecting SLS-free products not only supports effective fluoride delivery but also helps in maintaining a healthier oral environment, ultimately contributing to better dental health outcomes.
Next time you shop for a toothpaste, check the ingredients. If you see sodium lauryl sulfate or sodium lauryl sulphate, choose another toothpaste, especially if you are susceptible to mouth ulcers which can take 5-8 days to heal.
What alternatives are available?
Look for SLS-Free toothpaste brands such as Oradex Periodontal Toothpaste, Oradex Antibacterial Toothpaste, or Oradex Charcoal Toothpaste. In fact, all Oradex toothpastes are free from SLS and various other potentially harsh ingredients, such as parabens.
References:
Effect of sodium lauryl sulfate on recurrent aphthous stomatitis: A systematic review | PubMed
Why to Avoid Toothpastes with Sodium Lauryl Sulfate | Hatcher & Frey Orthodontics
Interaction between SLS on Fluoride Bioavailability and Uptake by Hap | ResearchGate