Keeping teeth clean – but not at the environment’s expense

Abstract

There is growing importance given to the sustainability and carbon footprints of items, especially those consumed regularly such as straws, earbuds and toothpaste. With the toll of greenhouse gases becoming apparent, it is understandable that consumers are looking to switch to greener alternatives. Toothpaste tubes at present are largely unrecyclable, resulting in an estimated 260 million tubes adding to landfill each year. Considering biodegradation takes 500 years to occur, it is easy to appreciate the disparity between supply and demand. Colgate currently offer a nationwide recycling programme for toothpaste tubes however, this is not readily accepted by local councils, necessitating alternatives to be sought in order to reduce waste. Many of the alternatives marketed do not contain fluoride, which has cariostatic properties. Fluoridated toothpaste tablets in biodegradable bags, glass jars, or boxes are available for use. These products may be of consideration for dental professionals to recommend to those seeking plastic free alternants. With increased use resulting in increased supply this may become a more recognised form of toothpaste in the years to come.