Conventional vs. Natural Toothpaste: Whi

Conventional vs. Natural Toothpaste: Which One’s Right for You?

September 21, 2025

Toothpaste is one of those everyday items we use without even thinking about it. On average, we brush our teeth 2 to 3 times a day — that adds up to over 700 brushes a year per person. Most people go for well-known brands like Colgate, Crest, or Sensodyne because they’re affordable and sold everywhere. But in recent years, interest has been growing in natural alternatives — free from harsh chemicals and packaged in more sustainable ways.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the key differences so you can decide which option best fits your lifestyle.

Conventional toothpaste (Colgate, Crest, Sensodyne, etc.)

The good:

Affordable for most budgets: Colgate and Crest usually cost $2–$4 USD for a 90–120 g tube.
Sensodyne, recommended for sensitive teeth, is on the higher end at about $6 USD for a 100 g tube.
Easy to find at any supermarket or pharmacy.
Lots of foam, thanks to chemical agents like SLS, which creates that familiar “clean” feeling.

The not-so-good:

Ingredients like synthetic fluoride can help prevent cavities, but overuse has been linked to thyroid and hormonal issues.
Often includes SLS (can irritate gums), triclosan, artificial colors, and sweeteners.
Plastic packaging: one tube can take up to 500 years to break down.
Real lifespan of a 60 g tube: about 1.5 to 2 months (since most people use more than necessary).

Natural toothpaste (our pick: Naturalmente Vivo)

The good:

Made with safe, familiar ingredients like calcium carbonate, bentonite clay, vegetable glycerin, turmeric, or xylitol.
Fluoride-free, avoiding risks tied to thyroid and hormonal balance.
Yes, it fights the bacteria that cause cavities and plaque — but it does so with natural ingredients (like xylitol, zinc oxide, and turmeric), which help maintain a healthy oral balance without being harsh.
Protects enamel, helps reduce plaque, and supports gum health.
Packaging is often glass or compostable, making it easy to reuse or recycle.
A great option for people with sensitive gums or anyone aiming for a more conscious lifestyle.
Real lifespan of a 60 g jar: about 2 to 2.5 months (since you use the exact amount and nothing gets wasted).

The not-so-good:

Usually more expensive ($6–$8 USD for a 60 g jar).
Feels a little “different” at first because it doesn’t foam as much.
Not as widely available yet, though more local shops are starting to carry them.
If it comes in a glass jar, you’ll want to scoop it out with a small spatula (wood or metal) or dip your toothbrush directly — but you should never share your jar with anyone else.
If you’re using a tablet, you might need some time to get used to chewing it and then brushing your teeth.

One isn’t necessarily “better” than the other — they’re simply different. Conventional options like Colgate, Crest, or Sensodyne do the basic job and are easy to find. Natural toothpaste, on the other hand, is gentler on your body and friendlier to the planet. It’s all about what works best for you — pick your favorite!