A lot of people today are considering switching to fluoride-free natural toothpaste. Why? The answer is simple- fluoride-free options are kinder to your teeth and gums, avoiding the irritation and dryness that fluoride can cause. Another perk of going fluoride-free is cutting out the extra chemicals. Most commercial toothpaste is packed with artificial colours, preservatives, and harsh foaming agents. Natural toothpastes stick to safe, simple ingredients that are easy to recognize and safe to use.

However, don’t just fall for the fad. Educate yourself on why the switch benefits your dental health and helps meet your dental requirements.

In this blog, we’ve rounded up five merits of replacing your fluoride toothpaste with a natural one! Read on to find out!

What Is Fluoride?

Fluoride is a mineral that occurs naturally in the earth's crust and is released into the soil, water, and air. It helps make teeth stronger and more resistant to cavities, working to prevent decay even before you notice it. Because fluoride has been shown to help prevent cavities, it is sometimes added to community water supplies.

What Does Fluoride Do?

Bacteria and sugars form acids that can lead to tooth decay. Fluoride prevents the damage by strengthening the enamel.  Even before a baby’s teeth grow, the fluoride they get from food and drinks helps strengthen the enamel. Once the teeth break through the gums, fluoride from natural sources helps repair any weakened enamel as the teeth grow.

While fluoride can strengthen teeth and prevent cavities, excessive fluoride exposure can lead to health issues. Overexposure to fluoride can cause dental fluorosis, a condition that changes the appearance of the tooth enamel in children, leading to white spots or streaks on the teeth. It can also cause gum irritation.

Given below are a few reasons why you should make a switch to fluoride-free toothpaste-

1. Better for Tooth Enamel

Over time, fluoride can be harmful to tooth enamel, especially in large amounts. Fluoride-free natural toothpaste avoids this risk and still keeps your teeth clean and healthy. 

2. Fresher Breath

Fluoride can leave a chemical aftertaste that contributes to bad breath. Natural fluoride-free toothpastes use ingredients like tea tree oil, coconut oil, aloe vera, or xylitol to freshen your breath, eliminate bad bacteria, and leave your mouth feeling clean.

3. Healthier Gums

Fluoride can irritate sensitive gums and may even cause fluorosis. Fluoride-free toothpaste is gentler on your gums and less likely to cause inflammation. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and proper brushing techniques with natural toothpaste can actually improve gum health over time.

4. Safer for Children

Ingesting large amounts of fluoride can be dangerous for children and babies. Fluoride-free toothpaste for kids eliminates this risk while still keeping their teeth clean. You can also use a tiny smear of natural toothpaste on a baby’s gums and emerging teeth as a safe alternative.

Also Read - Sudden Tooth Sensitivity

Bottom-line

Understanding what fluoride is, and the benefits and disadvantages associated with it can help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re an adult wanting to choose the right toothpaste for yourself or looking for a healthy alternative for your kid, keep in mind that the merits of natural toothpaste can far outweigh those of fluoride toothpaste.

Written by Dr. Shipra Jaiswal, BDS, MDS, a Periodontist and Gums Specialist