The use of fluoride in toothpaste has a bad reputation within the natural and sustainable lifestyle community. We're not surprised. And it's because there are certain things about this element that are concerning for our health. But the truth is, sometimes, this component is necessary.
Furthermore, in the scientific community, there is no consensus on whether or not we should use fluoride in our teeth brushing, which doesn't help clear up doubts. Today we are going to try to shed some light on this matter, to clarify some concepts. Even so, if in doubt, from Alma Eko, we urge you to consult with a trusted oral health professional.
BENEFITS OF FLUORIDE
The biggest advantage of fluoride is that it is a powerful anti-cavity agent. During the 20th century, as sugar consumption increased, so did cavities. Thus, toothpaste manufacturers began including fluoride in their products because it was very effective against this disease.
Additionally, in already formed teeth (from 8 years of age), it helps consolidate calcium in the teeth and form enamel.
CONTRAINDICATIONS OF FLUORIDE
Paradoxically, this calcium consolidation capacity, with early exposure or too much fluoride, can cause stains on the teeth and damage to the enamel. This phenomenon is called dental fluorosis.
Furthermore, another of its big problems is that, in high concentrations, fluoride can become an endocrine disruptor, as it affects the thyroid. Specifically, it decreases iodine in the body. The thyroid, without iodine, cannot function.
Therefore, in the case of children, we encounter two problems. On the one hand, milk teeth and those in the process of formation do not seem to be prepared for fluoride exposure. This is why many professionals advise against its use until the age of 8.
It is also documented that young children can develop dental fluorosis if they ingest too much fluoride while permanent teeth are forming. That's why recommendations focus on controlling the amount of toothpaste and preventing them from swallowing it, not on eliminating fluoride until age 8. Topical fluoride as a cause of dental fluorosis in children | Cochrane
Tooth decay is especially common during childhood, although it can appear at any age. Over the years, the conditions of the oral cavity change, and other problems, such as plaque accumulation and gum disease, can become more important. Maintaining good oral hygiene helps prevent both tooth decay and gingivitis.
HOW MUCH FLUORIDE ARE YOU EXPOSED TO?
The European Union limits the concentration of fluoride in toothpastes sold to the general public to 1,500 ppm. The main oral health organizations consider that, when used according to recommendations, fluoridated toothpastes at authorized concentrations are a safe and effective tool for caries prevention.
Continuing with exposure, we also want to mention that water fluoridation has been used in countries like the United States as a way to combat tooth decay in populations with a high prevalence of this disease. This is not the case in Spain, where, although fluoride is added to the water, the quantities appear to be very small, according to this study.
But fluoride exposure doesn't just come from the water we drink or from brushing our teeth. The food industry uses this water to produce its food, so we can assume that there is fluoride in our diet.
Another aspect that some researchers consider relevant is the cumulative exposure to multiple substances present in everyday products. Although each of them may be within the limits considered safe by regulations, there is growing scientific interest in better understanding the possible effects of simultaneous and continuous exposure to numerous substances at low doses. Nicolás Olea, medical specialist: "Endocrine disruptors are the true hackers of our hormones"
In short, if each product is safe, which we don't doubt, does the sum remain safe?
SO, WHAT DO I DO?
I must recommend that you consult your dentist. A professional is the only one who can determine whether the use of fluoride is essential or not in your case. But, in any case, we suggest you reflect a little and apply common sense.
We encourage you to ask yourself some questions: Are there cavities in your family? Could it be due to excessive consumption of sugary products? Is the frequency of brushing adequate?
If you believe your diet is correct and you are satisfied with the number of daily brushings, but you have cavities, you probably need fluoride toothpaste.
If a family member has cavities or is more prone to cavities and you believe a change in diet and/or hygiene habits is necessary, you might need fluoride toothpaste until those changes are established.
If you are still concerned about fluoride exposure, especially in the case of children and people with thyroid conditions, you might consider using fluoride in only one of your daily brushings.
KNOW YOUR OPTIONS
At Alma Eko, what we want is for you to be able to make informed decisions. In addition to giving you all the information in this article and encouraging you to consult with qualified professionals, we also want to provide you with information about the different options you can find on the market, always keeping in mind that our commitment is to the most natural products possible.
In recent years, many fluoride-free commercial options have appeared that contain ingredients proven to be very effective in oral hygiene. Coconut oil, baking soda, white clay, and some essential oils, such as tea tree oil, are very common ingredients in natural toothpastes and have demonstrated great antibacterial and antiseptic efficiency. At Alma Eko, you can find a variety of options for your oral hygiene
Whether you decide to use toothpaste with or without fluoride, at Alma Eko we help you with brands that contain the most natural ingredients possible with simple and reliable formulas.
One brand that you will see we carry a lot for both oral hygiene and deodorants is Ben&Anna. It's a brand we really like, and you can find options for fluoride and fluoride-free toothpastes or even natural mouthwash (you'll be surprised when you try it)
You have options for toothpaste in fluoride-free tablets. They don't leave a gritty sensation when chewed and taste like mint. Perfect for travel and just as effective as the paste we're used to.
You can find this same toothpaste in fluoride tablets
At Alma Eko, we work to find and offer you the most natural options with as few toxins and plastics as possible.
