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Green Living: a series in which we provide tips to help you implement practices, habits, and products into your life which respect and work towards the redemption of God’s creation.

I often expect that my care for God’s creation comes in big, challenging ways (like biking instead of driving) but sometimes it can come with a simple switch of routine or product. Such is the case with this week’s green living tip.

Consider how you might better care for creation by merely switching your toothpaste. Yes, that’s right. A green toothpaste. And, no, it will not physically turn your teeth green. But it will help you know that you are being a better steward.

When it comes to green dental hygiene products, Tom’s of Maine is the first on the list.

Here are some of the reasons you should consider their products (as per their own claims):

• No animal testing or animal ingredients
• They share every ingredient, its purpose, and its source on their website
• Sustainable practices are a priority every aspect of their business
• No artificial colors, flavors, fragrance, or preservatives
• They strive to maximize recycled content and recyclability of their packaging
• 5% of employee time goes to volunteering and 10% of profits to human and environmental goodness

I recently tried their Whole Care peppermint toothpaste with fluoride. While it was noticeably different in taste from your standard toothpaste brands, the flavor was just fine. Although I cannot attest to effectiveness, as I am no dental researcher, I love how I can participate in those aspects listed above through simply changing my toothpaste brand.

It is great to cut out all those artificial things. I also really like their efforts at sustainability and recycling (note: their boxes are printed with soy ink on 100% recycled paperboard). And of course, I find it helpful to avoid animal testing and ingredients as well. Finally, their company and employee efforts to participate in what is “good” is certainly an added bonus.

While a little more expensive it is a great way to care for creation and know what is going in your mouth and perhaps down your throat (depending on where you fall in the spit/swallow debate). I encourage you to try a green toothpaste once and see how it works out for you. I, myself, have been pleased.

Interested in further greening your dental hygiene? Tom’s also offers mouthwash and dental floss. There are also other brands out there which offer other eco-friendly options. There are even eco-friendly toothbrushes (such as ones with which you can replace the head).

Two quick notes:

1. There are a variety of toothpaste flavors, a couple of which I have read are very strong (cinnamon) or distasteful (fennel). Choose wisely.
2. We have no special relationship with Tom’s of Maine and do not stand to gain anything by promoting their products.

Also consider:

Tip #9 Lawn Care

Green Adventures: Greening Coffee