Many commercial toothpastes, even some labelled “natural” or “fluoride-free” still contain questionable ingredients such as triclosan, sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS), carrageenan, parabens, artificial sweeteners (like aspartame and saccharin), propylene glycol, and DEA (diethanolamine). These additives can irritate sensitive mouths, disrupt hormones, or contribute to long-term health concerns.
We used to rely on a well-known fluoride-free brand, but were disappointed to discover that it still included several of these unwanted ingredients.
So we made the switch to our own homemade toothpaste. Simple, effective, and free from all the nasties. This paste not only cleans teeth gently and thoroughly, it also supports stronger enamel and may help reduce the risk of cavities over time.
It took a few days for my kids to get used to the texture and taste, but now they’re fully on board—and I feel confident knowing they’re brushing with one of the healthiest option available.
Cost wise, each 4oz jar of homemade toothpaste will cost you less than $4 USD/$5 CDN and even less if you use your own jar. I’ve purchased comparable products online for $13USD/$17 CDN a tube which is very close to the same quantity.
Make sure that you only use high quality, food grade oils in small amounts, not fragrance oils! Wintergreen is not recommended. Here are some oil flavours and combinations that your family will love:
Peppermint
- Flavor: Classic, refreshing, strong
- Benefits: Antibacterial, freshens breath, cooling
- Notes: Use sparingly for kids—it can be too intense.
Spearmint
- Flavor: Sweeter and milder than peppermint
- Benefits: Gentle antiseptic, great for children
- Notes: A kid-friendly alternative to peppermint.
Cinnamon (Cinnamon Bark or Leaf)
- Flavor: Warm, spicy, sweet
- Benefits: Strong antibacterial and antifungal properties
- Notes: Use in small amounts—it can be irritating to sensitive gums.
Clove
- Flavor: Spicy and earthy
- Benefits: Natural analgesic and antiseptic—excellent for toothaches
- Notes: Powerful—use just 1 drop per batch and combine with milder oils.
Sweet Orange
- Flavor: Light, citrusy, pleasant
- Benefits: Antimicrobial and uplifting
- Notes: Very child-friendly. Not phototoxic in toothpaste, but always choose sweet, not bitter orange.
Lemon
- Flavor: Fresh, tart
- Benefits: Antibacterial and refreshing
- Notes: Can increase tooth sensitivity if overused (mildly acidic). Use only in small amounts and not daily.
Myrrh
- Flavor: Earthy, resinous
- Benefits: Excellent for gum health and healing
- Notes: Not for taste—best blended with mint or orange.
Tea Tree (Melaleuca)
- Flavor: Medicinal and strong
- Benefits: Antibacterial and antifungal
- Notes: Not tasty—best reserved for adult blends or therapeutic pastes.
🌿 Kid-Friendly Combinations
- Spearmint + Sweet Orange
- Peppermint + Cinnamon (small amounts)
- Orange + Clove (gentle and sweet)
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Here are links to the products that I used to make this recipe:
4oz Glass jars – These are super cute and come with two label options
Calcium Carbonate – Not to be confused with Bicarbonate/Baking Soda
Xylitol Powder – I had to grind this one down a bit more fine as it is in granules like white sugar
Spearmint Essential Oil – This brand is food grade and safe for using in toothpaste
Natural Toothpaste Recipe
Equipment
- Small Glass bowl
- Popsicle stick or small wooden spoon
- 8 ounce glass jar (or two 4 oz jars)
Materials
- 5 TBSP calcium carbonate
- 1 TBSP diatomaceous earth
- 2 TBSP baking soda aluminum/acidic salt free
- 2 TBSP coconut oil melted if in hard state
- 2 TBSP MCT oil
- 3 TBSP xylitol powder ground fine in mortar & pestle if needed
- 10-20 drops essential oils high quality/food grade
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix together the dry ingredients: calcium carbonate, diatomaceous earth, baking soda, and xylitol. Ensure xylitol is in powder form rather than granules, or it will not sweeten toothpaste
- Add the coconut oil and MCT little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
- Add essential oils if using
- Pour into glass jar(s)
Notes
- Use a clean popsicle stick to scoop some out and onto a toothbrush. Do not dip the toothbrush into the jar as this introduces bacteria and cause it to spoil faster.
- All baking soda is not created equal. Find an aluminum free brand.
- The MCT oil is important if you live in a cool climate, as pure coconut oil will make the toothpaste too firm to use.
- Batch will last up to two years if stored out of sunlight.
