DIY Toothpaste With Diatomaceous Earth

In the quest for a healthier lifestyle, many people are reevaluating what they put into their bodies — and that includes what goes into their mouths. One everyday product that often gets overlooked is toothpaste. While conventional toothpastes often promise cavity protection, whitening, and fresh breath, they may also contain chemicals and additives that raise serious health concerns.

Fortunately, making your own toothpaste at home is not only easy but also empowering. One of the best ingredients for a natural, effective toothpaste is diatomaceous earth. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of using diatomaceous earth in oral care, how to make your own DIY natural toothpaste, and why you may want to avoid ingredients like fluoride and sodium saccharin.

What Is Diatomaceous Earth?

Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a naturally occurring, soft, siliceous sedimentary rock that is easily crumbled into a fine white to off-white powder. It is made up of fossilized remains of diatoms — tiny aquatic organisms. DE has long been used for everything from pest control to detoxification. But when it comes to oral health, food-grade diatomaceous earth offers some unique advantages:

Mild abrasiveness: DE gently removes plaque and stains without damaging enamel.
Mineral content: It contains trace minerals like calcium, magnesium, and silica, which are beneficial for strong teeth and gums.
Detoxifying properties: Its porous structure helps absorb toxins and bacteria.

How to Make Your Own Natural Toothpaste with Diatomaceous Earth

Here’s a simple, customizable recipe for a homemade toothpaste that uses food-grade diatomaceous earth as the star ingredient:

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons food-grade diatomaceous earth
2 tablespoons baking soda
2 tablespoons coconut oil (antibacterial and soothing)
10–15 drops peppermint or spearmint essential oil (for flavor and freshness)
Optional: 1 teaspoon xylitol (a natural sweetener that fights bacteria)
Optional: A pinch of sea salt (for mineral content)

Instructions:

In a non-metallic bowl, mix the diatomaceous earth and baking soda.
Add coconut oil and stir until you get a paste-like consistency.
Add essential oil drops and optional ingredients, if using.
Store in a glass jar with a lid. Use a small spoon or spatula to apply to your toothbrush.

Why Avoid Fluoride and Sodium Saccharin?

While fluoride and sodium saccharin are common in most commercial toothpastes, they come with concerns that are worth considering.

The Toxicity of Fluoride

Fluoride has long been promoted for its role in preventing cavities, but mounting research is raising questions about its safety — especially with long-term or excessive exposure.

Neurotoxicity: Studies have linked high fluoride intake with lower IQ scores and neurological development issues, particularly in children.
Thyroid dysfunction: Fluoride may interfere with thyroid hormone production, leading to metabolic issues.
Dental fluorosis: Excess fluoride can cause permanent discoloration and damage to tooth enamel, particularly in developing teeth.
Accumulation in the body: Fluoride can build up in bones and tissues over time, potentially contributing to skeletal problems.

It’s worth noting that fluoride is classified as a neurotoxicant by the Lancet Neurology, alongside lead and mercury. While some exposure may be beneficial, daily use from multiple sources (water, toothpaste, rinses, etc.) can easily exceed safe limits.

Concerns About Sodium Saccharin

Sodium saccharin is an artificial sweetener used in toothpaste to improve taste. While it’s generally recognized as safe in small amounts, concerns persist:

Linked to cancer in animal studies: In the 1970s, studies linked saccharin to bladder cancer in lab rats. While later research suggested this may not apply to humans, the controversy led to saccharin being listed as a possible human carcinogen for many years.
Allergic reactions: Some individuals report headaches, rashes, or other reactions after exposure.
Artificial chemical: Unlike natural alternatives like xylitol or stevia, saccharin is entirely synthetic and offers no health benefit.

For those aiming to live a more natural lifestyle, removing synthetic sweeteners like saccharin is often an easy first step.

Final Thoughts

Your mouth is the gateway to your body — and what you brush with matters. By choosing to make your own toothpaste with safe, natural ingredients like diatomaceous earth, you take control over what you put in your mouth and reduce your exposure to potentially harmful chemicals. The added bonus? It’s cost-effective, customizable, and empowering.

Try this DIY toothpaste and experience a cleaner, more conscious approach to oral care.

Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a dentist or healthcare provider before making changes to your oral health routine.