Health Concerns
Animal studies have shown both of these chemicals can interfere with hormones critical for normal development and function of the brain and reproductive system. Triclosan has been associated with lower levels of thyroid hormone and testosterone, which could result in altered behavior, learning disabilities, or infertility.
Furthermore, laboratory studies suggest that triclosan and triclocarban may be contributing to antibiotic resistance in bacteria known to cause human infections. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention calls antibiotic resistance one of the most pressing health issues facing the United States. Infections caused by bacteria with resistance to at least one antibiotic have been estimated to kill more than 60,000 hospitalized patients each year.
Environmental Concerns
Most of these products get washed down the drain, where they enter our waterways and are then transported widely throughout the environment. Triclosan is one of the most frequently detected chemicals in streams across the U.S. and both triclosan and triclocarban are found in high concentrations in sediments and sewage sludge where they can persist for decades.
In the environment, antibacterial compounds could disrupt aquatic ecosystems and pose a potential risk to wildlife. Traces of triclosan have been found in earthworms from agricultural fields and Atlantic dolphins. In the lab, triclosan has been shown to interfere with development of tadpoles into frogs, a process that is dependent on thyroid hormone.
Exposure
These antibacterials are used in a number of household and personal-care products, including cosmetics, liquid hand soap, deodorant bar soap, sponges, toothpaste and cutting boards, as well as shoes, towels and clothes. They often appear on the product's list of ingredients.
Stay Safe
- Avoid anything labeled "antibacterial" or "antimicrobial" which contains triclosan or triclocarban, such as soaps, gels, cleansers, toothpaste, cosmetics and other personal care products.
- Avoid other "antibacterial" or "antimicrobial" items such as cutting boards, towels, yoga mats, shoes, clothing and bedding.
- Use regular soap and hot water to clean effectively. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers when you don’t have access to running water.
OUR DENTAL OFFICE'S THOUGHTS
Written by Brian S. Nylaan, D.D.S.
After some preliminary research and consultations, I would agree that Triclosan is an issue that needs attention but the impact that dental applications have are minimal. Compared to the widespread usage of "antibacterials" and "antimicrobials" in thousands of consumer products, the amount of public exposure to Colgate Total toothpaste is a proverbial drop in the bucket. Today, there is a widespread phobia about getting sick and industry has responded using Triclosan based products to satisfy that desire.
From hand sanitizers to antimicrobial shoes, we are crippling the immune systems in our bodies while adversely affecting our environment through the runoff of these products. Common sense does show the possible impact of that on the production of antibiotic resistant bacteria which kill thousands each year. Now, from a dental perspective, Colgate Total is tremendously useful in specific cases that are determined by your treatment team.
Remember that the dosages fed to these animals greatly exceeded what you are exposed to through tooth brushing. We find the value of the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effect of Triclosan on the body can prevent issues that go beyond just periodontal disease, such as heart attack, stroke, diabetes among others.
Truthfully, you probably would have to eat a tube of Total a day for quite awhile to build up what the rodents got in an injection. These studies look a little weak regarding the cancer link but my biggest concern lies in the environmental impact of this drug. My thought is Triclosan is valuable to the public is far fewer and more judicious applications.
Our next post .. Setting the record straight about Colgate Total toothpaste (Triclosan) written by Colgate. After reading both you, along with your hygienist, can decide what is best for you.
Our next post .. Setting the record straight about Colgate Total toothpaste (Triclosan) written by Colgate. After reading both you, along with your hygienist, can decide what is best for you.
