I’ve shared my recipe for homemade remineralizing toothpaste before, and recently a reader, Melina, gave me her version that can be squeezed out of a tube. This one combines the benefits of bentonite clay with remineralizing properties, giving your teeth a double shot of minerals.
Adding water makes the toothpaste squeezable but also means it won’t last as long. I haven’t been able to test it beyond a few weeks because we go through it so quickly, but it holds up well for at least that long. One reader suggested using vodka instead of water to extend shelf life.
The squeezable option also makes it easier to share toothpaste without dipping different toothbrushes into the same jar. If you’d prefer a recipe without water that lasts indefinitely, or want to try a toothpowder, I have a variety of oral health recipes available on my Oral Health Resource Page.
After trying many types of calcium and calcium-magnesium powders, and hearing from a lot of readers, it seems like Calcium Carbonate is the best choice. Some calcium-magnesium types can cause reactions. If you’re working with calcium magnesium in a closed container, it can sometimes create pressure, so it’s better to mix by hand or use a non-airtight container. Many found that blenders like Magic Bullets often cause these issues.
Always speak with a dentist before changing your dental routine, especially if you have any dental issues. I use this toothpaste on my kids and myself, even though I have some non-amalgam fillings. It’s important to check with a dentist, but since the ingredients are generally considered safe, I feel okay using them.
Some people experience sensitivity when switching to homemade toothpaste, especially if they’ve been using commercial products for a while or have had recent fluoride treatments. This is because the clay can remove toxins, though this tends to not be an issue with calcium powder and usually resolves within a few weeks. Again, consulting a dentist is advised.
There’s some debate about xylitol’s effects on teeth. While some studies say it’s beneficial, others warn it’s dangerous. Xylitol is harmful to pets, so keep it away from them! We use a non-GMO, corn-free brand.
This recipe works fine with water, but many have successfully used vodka to extend its shelf life. There’s some evidence suggesting glycerin might coat teeth and block mineral absorption. The research is mixed, but there’s no clear benefit to using glycerin, so avoiding it might be best. I’ve seen relatives’ teeth improve after switching from glycerin-based toothpaste to other types.
Many people have tried this toothpaste or my usual remineralizing toothpaste and had positive results. One reader, Jennifer, favors using calcium over calcium-magnesium due to taste and texture differences.
Tina shared some tweaks she made: adding a bit of hydrogen peroxide to make it squeezable, using baking soda instead of bentonite clay, and adding grapefruit seed extract. She also noted coconut oil can get firm in cooler temperatures.
Melinda loves the recipe but found that her paste dries up, so she’s adjusting it. She’s considering using a squeezable tube for convenience.
GoToobs are a great option for those looking for reusable, travel-friendly containers that won’t leak, letting you use the toothpaste worry-free. I’ve had mine for a year, and it’s still going strong, perfect for both toothpaste and my oil cleansing routine when traveling.
Have you ever tried making your own toothpaste or other oral health products? How was your experience? Feel free to share your thoughts!
