For decades, there have been conversations about the safety and risks of fluoride in our water and toothpaste. In recent years, this debate has become even more mainstream, as some are trying to connect fluoride to the development of certain conditions or illnesses. These theories leave patients concerned about the safety of fluoride toothpastes and seeking alternatives to care for their smile. But is fluoride free toothpaste actually good for your smile?
At St. Apollonia Dental, we demonstrate a commitment to keeping your smile healthy. We encourage any patient who is concerned about fluoride in their toothpaste to visit our office! There, we’ll discuss the best and safest way to care for your smile.
Understanding Fluoride
Fluoride is a chemical typically found in water and foods like grapes, bananas, strawberries, potatoes, and more.
Often, the word “chemical” throws patients for a loop, as we usually associate chemicals with harmful substances. However, fluoride is a naturally occurring chemical!
As far back as the early 1900s, scientists were discovering naturally occurring fluoride in our water and food. Since then, we use fluoride in our day-to-day life as a natural shield against the formation of cavities.
After a meal, sugars from food and drinks will accumulate on your teeth. If left untreated, these sugars accumulate bacteria, producing a harmful acid that feeds on your enamel. For patients with poor dental hygiene, this typically causes cavities, allowing the infection to spread underneath your enamel.
Fortunately, fluoride helps rebuild enamel! Thanks to its interaction with minerals like calcium and phosphate, fluoride creates a protective shield on your enamel, effectively keeping bacteria out while also repairing early signs of decay.
The Potential Problems With Fluoride
Thanks to its cavity prevention properties, fluoride is a vital component of most toothpastes on the market. This causes concerns for some patients, as they fear the potential risks of fluoride more than they appreciate its advantages.
Dental Fluorosis
In the early 1900s, high amounts of fluoride were present in areas like Colorado Springs. This discovery was made because the people of Colorado Springs had unusual staining on their teeth, leading scientists to believe that their shared water source may be the cause. This condition, dental fluorosis, occurs when children under eight consume too much fluoride, leading to stains on their adult teeth later in life.
However, monitoring your child’s brushing habits easily mitigates any concerns! For those three and up, we recommend using a pea-sized dollop of toothpaste and ensuring that they don’t swallow it. For children under three, use only a smear of toothpaste, and watch the levels of fluoride in your local water source and in mouthwash.
Fluoride toxicity
Additionally, some believe fluoride is linked to arthritis, bone cancer, and cognitive decline. While there is very little evidence to support the belief, there is some validity in claiming that too much fluoride is dangerous.
Fortunately, it’s incredibly difficult to consume toxic amounts of fluoride! Fluoride is extremely well-regulated and exists in very small amounts that protect your teeth without threatening your health.
Is Fluoride Free Toothpaste Good For You?
At St. Apollonia Dental, we do not recommend fluoride free toothpaste. Not only do these products lack the cavity protection that fluoride provides, but they can also leave your teeth at a greater risk!
Furthermore, the American Dental Association only approves toothpastes containing fluoride. Thanks to their ability to prevent cavities, any toothpaste that the ADA approves must contain some level of fluoride. Any toothpaste without fluoride, such as charcoal toothpaste, cannot receive ADA approval.
In fact, some fluoride free toothpastes can even damage your teeth and enamel, depending on their level of abrasivity! Charcoal toothpaste, in particular, is a dangerous alternative to fluoride toothpastes. Thanks to its abrasive nature, charcoal actively harms your enamel rather than protecting it from cavities.
If you want to take care of your smile and keep your teeth in good condition, St. Apollonia encourages you to use an ADA-approved fluoride toothpaste! Fluoride, in combination with flossing and routine dental visits, helps keep your smile happy and healthy.
Learn More About the Benefits of Fluoride Toothpaste and a Healthy Smile
Taking care of your teeth the right way can be a challenge, especially when the world is rampant with misinformation. If you’re unsure about the effects of fluoride toothpaste, come in to our office for a free initial consultation! We’ll help you navigate your dental concerns and find safe and effective ways to make your smile healthier.
