A smile can brighten up any day, and keeping our teeth looking bright, white, and as healthy as they can be is essential. We all know the importance of good oral hygiene, but as we all become more aware of our impact on the environment, and with an increasing number of toothpaste tubes in landfills, many people are now searching for products with natural toothpaste ingredients.

 

In recent years, organic toothpaste brands have been on the rise, and many of these advertise themselves as fluoride-free. However, is toothpaste without fluoride as healthy for your teeth? We thought we would take a closer look…

 

What is fluoride?

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that can be found in drinking water, soil, and metal. It has been used to help reduce the risk of cavities in children and adults for over a century. Nowadays, toothpaste brands the world over incorporate fluoride in their products.

 

When it comes to dental use, sodium fluoride, sodium monofluorophosphate, and stannous fluoride are the most common in the US. There can be no denying that fluoride is the gold standard when it comes to preventing cavities, removing bacteria, and strengthening your teeth.

 

So why is fluoride considered a bad thing?

Although toothpaste brands have been using fluoride for decades, in recent years, there has been a rise in people looking for toothpaste without fluoride. The mineral is completely safe to use in small doses, but in larger quantities, it can be very toxic and has been linked to several serious diseases.

 

These doses need to be far higher than can be found in traditional toothpaste brands; however, in high doses, it can lead to dental or skeletal fluorosis, which damages bones and teeth. Exceptionally large amounts of fluoride have also been linked to other issues such as thyroid problems or cardiac and neurological issues.

 

However, it is important to stress that these only occur in very high doses that are not found in FDA-regulated oral healthcare products. It is because of these issues, though, that people are now seeking toothpaste without fluoride.

 

What are the fact regarding fluoride toothpaste?

While I recognize the concern that many patients have in regard to fluoride products, as a dentist, I am a bigger advocate for them. Every fluoride product on the market in the United States today has been rigorously reviewed and approved by the FDA.

 

This is a very specific testing process, and fluoride is the only anti-cavity compound recommended by the American Dental Association. This is due to its benefits and its proven history of reducing cavities and strengthening teeth.

 

In fact, almost every dentist would argue that it is one of the greatest contributions to modern medicine in the twentieth century.  Decreasing tooth decay not only makes our teeth healthier but it can also improve our overall health. Certain types of fluoride, especially stannous fluoride, are also antimicrobial and can whiten teeth.

 

What about non-fluoride toothpaste alternatives?

There is only one solution that competes with fluoride for those patients looking for natural toothpaste ingredients or toothpaste without fluoride. Nano-hydroxyapatite (n-HA) is the same mineral that our teeth and bones are made from and is a natural alternative that is completely bio-compatible.

 

Over time, using Nano-hydroxyapatite has been shown to add back what acid-producing foods and drinks have taken away. This is a great alternative for those looking for toothpaste without fluoride, and clinical studies have shown it to be just as effective. The unique product works by helping to re-mineralize your teeth, preventing bacteria from digging in and causing cavities.

 

Looking for natural fluoride alternative?

Here at Elims, we know that many people want a natural or responsibly made toothpaste. That is why we have developed a unique range of toothpaste without fluoride that utilizes Nano-hydroxyapatite to maximize your oral health.

 

Want to find out more? Check out the full range here!