What is Sodium Lauryl Sulphate, and why is it used in toothpaste?
Sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) is a widely used surfactant, a substance that helps to reduce the surface tension of a liquid. It essentially gives toothpaste the ‘foamy’ feeling. It is found in a variety of personal care and cleaning products. SLS has been the subject of some controversy, with some people claiming that it is harmful and others stating that it is safe to use. In this article, we will examine the properties of SLS, how it is used in toothpaste, and the arguments for and against its use.
What is SLS?
SLS is a white, powdery substance that is soluble in water. It is made by reacting lauryl alcohol with sulfur trioxide gas, which is then neutralised with sodium hydroxide. SLS has a number of properties that make it useful in a variety of products. It is an effective foaming agent, meaning that it helps to create a lather when it is mixed with water. It is also a good cleaning agent, able to break down dirt and oil on surfaces. SLS has a low pH, which means that it is slightly acidic, and has a bitter taste.
Why is SLS in toothpaste?
In toothpaste, SLS is used as a foaming agent and a surfactant. The foaming action of SLS helps to spread the toothpaste around the mouth, making it easier to clean the teeth. The surfactant properties of SLS help to break down and remove plaque and food particles from the teeth. SLS is also used in toothpaste to help to stabilise the formula and prevent the ingredients from separating.
What are the concerns with SLS in toothpaste?
One concern is that SLS may irritate the skin and mucous membranes in the mouth. Some people may experience dry mouth, soreness, or a burning sensation after using toothpaste that contains SLS. Some studies have also suggested that SLS may have the potential to cause oral sores, although more research is needed to confirm this.
Another concern about SLS is that it may be harmful to the environment. SLS can be toxic to aquatic life and may persist in the environment for long periods of time. There are also concerns that SLS may interact with other chemicals in the environment, leading to the formation of potentially harmful by-products.
We are increasingly finding that some people are sensitive to SLS, so we stock toothpaste (check out our online range here) that contains no SLS to provide this choice. If you are someone who has irritable gums and cheeks, a trial of SLS-free toothpaste can be a simple measure to determine if you are better to use an alternative product. If you’re not sure, please don’t hesitate to ask, as this simple switch can improve oral comfort significantly for some people.
To book an appointment with the team at Ethical Dental call 6652 3185 or book online.