Bentonite clay, also known as Montmorillonite clay, is a natural substance formed from volcanic ash that has been used historically for internal and external detoxification. Given its reputation for drawing out impurities, many people are exploring its potential as a natural alternative to commercial toothpaste. The central question remains whether this mineral-rich earth material is a viable and safe agent for daily dental hygiene.
Understanding the Properties of Bentonite Clay for Oral Use
The interest in using bentonite clay for teeth brushing stems from its unique physical and chemical characteristics. When hydrated, the clay possesses a net negative electrical charge, allowing it to function like a sponge in the mouth. This negative charge enables it to attract and bind to positively charged ions, which include bacteria, toxins, and impurities through a process called adsorption.
The clay is also rich in trace minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, and silica. In addition to its cleansing action, bentonite clay has an alkalizing effect, helping to neutralize the acidic environment created by food and bacteria in the mouth. This shift toward a more balanced pH level is thought to support a healthier environment for the oral microbiome.
From a physical standpoint, the clay acts as a mild abrasive to remove surface plaque and stains. While the raw clay scores low on the Mohs hardness scale, generally between 1.5 and 2.0, its fine particle size is often compared to a gentle polishing agent. Some commercial clay-based toothpastes have a Relative Dentin Abrasivity (RDA) value around 105, placing them in the medium abrasive range, which is considered safe for daily use.
Preparing and Applying Clay for Brushing
Sourcing the correct product is the first step, as only food-grade calcium bentonite clay should be considered for oral application. The clay is typically mixed with a liquid and other ingredients to create a usable paste, rather than being applied as a dry powder. Filtered water or coconut oil are common liquids used to achieve a spreadable, paste-like consistency suitable for a toothbrush.
A basic recipe often combines the clay with baking soda, which increases cleaning action, and a few drops of essential oil, such as peppermint, for flavor. A general ratio involves two parts clay to one part liquid, adjusted until the mixture is easy to scoop. Non-metal utensils, such as wood or plastic, should be used when mixing and storing the preparation, as metal may interact with the clay’s electrical charge.
The prepared clay paste can be stored in a sealed, non-metal container at room temperature, though it may require re-mixing with water if it dries out. When brushing, users should apply a pea-sized amount to a wet toothbrush and use a gentle, circular motion. Proper brushing technique remains important to ensure effective cleaning without causing physical damage.
Dental Safety Considerations and Professional Recommendations
Despite the perceived benefits of bentonite clay, safety concerns exist regarding its mineral composition and lack of professional regulation. The primary risk is the potential for trace amounts of heavy metals. Because bentonite clay is mined from the earth, it contains elements like lead, arsenic, and cadmium. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warnings about elevated lead levels found in certain commercial products.
Manufacturers often claim these metals are not bioavailable, but ingestion, even in small amounts over time, poses a risk to human health, especially for children. The body can absorb lead from the clay, and there is no established safe level of lead exposure. Furthermore, bentonite clay products are not subject to the same strict safety and efficacy regulations as traditional toothpastes.
The most substantial drawback is the absence of fluoride, which is scientifically recognized as the gold standard for remineralization and cavity prevention. Toothpaste works through physical cleaning and chemical protection. Bentonite clay offers physical cleaning but lacks the therapeutic chemical benefits of fluoride, which helps rebuild weakened enamel.
Dental professionals generally advise against substituting fluoride toothpaste with bentonite clay, especially for individuals at high risk for cavities. For those determined to avoid fluoride, the recommendation is to use an FDA-approved, non-fluoridated toothpaste tested for heavy metal contamination. The consensus from dental associations emphasizes the preference for products with clinically proven agents to prevent decay.