Is Fluoride Toothpaste Bad For You?

Fluoride has been a cornerstone of dental care for decades, widely used in toothpaste to help prevent cavities and strengthen enamel.¹ The American Dental Association even stipulates that “all toothpastes with the ADA Seal of Acceptance must contain fluoride.” 

However, in recent years, concerns about the potential risks associated with fluoride have led people to explore fluoride-free alternatives - as evidenced by the burgeoning fluoride-free toothpaste market.² For many, this is because they are seeking a chemical-free, natural option.

To better understand fluoride and fluoride-free toothpastes, and which one may be right for you, we cover the following in this guide:

• What is fluoride, and why is it in toothpastes?
• The potential risks of fluoride in toothpaste
• Natural toothpaste alternatives
• The key benefits of fluoride-free, natural toothpastes

What Is Fluoride, and Why is it in Toothpastes?

Fluoride is a naturally-occurring mineral found in water, soil, and certain foods. It is commonly added to toothpaste and drinking water because it helps strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities.

Most toothpastes sold in the US contain fluoride levels of 1,000 to 1,100 mg/L, which is about 1.3 mg per the typical amount of toothpaste used to brush your teeth once.³ 

Fluoride in toothpaste plays a key role in:

• Strengthening Enamel: It helps remineralize weakened enamel, making teeth more resistant to acid attacks from plaque and bacteria.
• Preventing Cavities: Fluoride reduces the risk of tooth decay by slowing down the breakdown of enamel and enhancing its repair process.
• Protecting Against Acid Erosion: Acids from food and drinks can weaken teeth over time, and fluoride provides a protective barrier.

Most dentists recommend using fluoride toothpaste as part of a regular oral hygiene routine to maintain strong, healthy teeth.⁴ In an interview, the periodontist and assistant professor at the University of Utah School of Dentistry, Dr. David Okano, said the following:

Interviewer: So if two patients identical in every way came in and one was using natural toothpaste and one was using a fluoride toothpaste, what would the differences be?
Dr. Okano: All things being equal, you would see less potential for tooth decay in the individual who was using the fluoride-containing toothpaste.⁵

Which, of course, may make you wonder, why should you avoid fluoride in toothpaste?

Potential Risks of Fluoride in Toothpaste

It's important to recognize that fluoride is a chemical compound that, when consumed in excessive amounts, can pose health risks. Some key concerns include:

• Dental Fluorosis: Prolonged exposure to fluoride, especially in children, can result in visible enamel damage, ranging from mild discoloration like white spots to severe pitting. What complicates matters here is that most studies show people do not notice mild fluorosis. This is why dental professionals have to carefully consider fluoride treatments for children.⁶
• Fluoride Toxicity: Large amounts of fluoride can be toxic if swallowed in significant quantities. Symptoms of acute fluoride poisoning include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. This is why children’s toothpaste often has lower fluoride levels and why young children should be supervised while brushing.⁷

Again, it is worth emphasizing that such risks only occur when fluoride is consumed in excessive amounts. Still, these potential risks may prompt you to reconsider using fluoride-based toothpastes, particularly if you're seeking a gentler, more natural approach to oral care.

Natural Toothpaste Alternatives

The good news is that fluoride-free toothpastes are becoming increasingly popular and effective, offering safe and natural solutions for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Products like PerioSciences Natural Toothpaste uses scientifically-backed ingredients to clean and help protect teeth without the risks associated with fluoride.

Some of the powerful natural ingredients found in fluoride-free toothpaste include:

• Xylitol: A natural sweetener that fights cavity-causing bacteria.
• Green Tea Catechins (EGCG): This has been shown to neutralize volatile sulfur compounds in the mouth, a major cause of bad breath.
• Seabuckthorn Oil: Naturally creates an environment hostile to oral bacteria that can contribute to bad breath and plaque build-up.

These natural alternatives are an excellent choice for those looking to avoid synthetic chemicals while still achieving optimal oral hygiene.

Key Benefits of Fluoride-Free Toothpaste

If you’re considering making the switch to fluoride-free toothpaste, here’s what you can expect:

• No risk of fluorosis: A fluoride-free product eliminates the risk of discoloration or enamel damage caused by overexposure.
• Safe for all ages: Parents can rest assured that fluoride-free toothpaste is safe for children, reducing the worry of accidental swallowing.
• Natural, clean ingredients: Many fluoride-free options prioritize transparency and avoid harmful additives like artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

Pairing fluoride-free toothpaste with proper brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups ensures a healthy smile for years to come.

Consult Your Dentist for Tailored Advice

While the decision to go fluoride-free is a personal one, it’s always a good idea to consult your dental professional before making changes to your oral care routine. Your dentist can provide personalized recommendations based on your unique dental needs and help ensure that you’re taking the best steps for your oral health.

Discover the Benefits of PerioSciences Natural Toothpaste

As covered, fluoride toothpaste is not bad for you. Not unless you accidentally consume it in excess. However, you may prefer a more natural option. If you are ready to make the switch, consider PerioSciences Natural Toothpaste. It is specially-formulated to support oral health with safe, natural ingredients that clean and help protect your teeth effectively. What sets it apart is its patented combination of the natural antioxidants Phloretin and Ferulic Acid, which work together synergistically to neutralize free radicals from peroxide, nicotine, alcohol, and metals.

With PerioSciences’ range of natural dental care products, achieving a healthy-looking, radiant smile has never been easier, or safer.

References

1. Role of Fluoride in Oral Health Promotion, ScienceDirect
2. Global Fluoride Free Toothpaste Market Report and Forecast
3. Fluoride Fact Sheet for Health Professionals, National Institutes of Health
4. What to Know about Fluoride in Toothpaste, Medical News Today
5. Are There Benefits to Using Fluoride-Free Toothpaste?
6. Dental Fluorosis from the Handbook of Pediatric Dentistry (4th Edition), ScienceDirect
7. Potential fluoride toxicity from oral medicaments: A review, PubMed Central