There always seems to be a new health trend sweeping the globe these days, blasting everyone on social media and creating news headlines. There's always something new to try to enhance your life with, whether it's a new fad diet, hair treatment, or life hack. These suggestions are frequently contested, such as the usage of activated charcoal in toothpaste.
Similarly, the dispute over whether or not toothpaste should contain fluoride is one of the most contentious discussion topics. Different persons and publications have differing opinions on whether fluoride should be added to toothpaste or fluoride-free toothpaste works best. A brief search on the internet pops up a plethora of results. Some people believe that fluoride is necessary for optimal oral hygiene; some think otherwise.
What Is Fluoride?
To comprehend why fluoride may harm or benefit your teeth, you must first understand what fluoride is. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral present in the earth's water sources frequently added to water supplies. When added to toothpaste and used as a topical treatment, fluoride has been shown to help build the enamel in both children's and adults' teeth. Fluoride also prevents tooth demineralization, which is the first step toward developing a cavity. If a cavity hasn't fully formed in a tooth, fluoride can actually remineralize it and prevent the cavity from forming.
Is Fluoride Dangerous?
Fluoride is not toxic to humans when applied topically. Fluoride can be consumed in modest amounts without endangering people. When significant amounts of fluoride or fluoride toothpaste are consumed, however, it can be exceedingly detrimental to the human body. If you're looking for a fluoride-free toothpaste for your young child, especially if they're under the age of two, you should go with a fluoride-free toothpaste. As they grow up, they can start using toothpaste that includes fluoride to help strengthen their teeth. Until then, it's advisable to avoid using fluoridated toothpaste to avoid unintentionally ingesting it.
How Much Fluoride Is Good?
Hearing about all the wonderful things fluoride can do for you, you may feel compelled to obtain as much as possible. While this seems nice in principle, it isn't always the case in practice.
When too much fluoride is applied topically, it can induce dental fluorosis. Discolouration or pitting of the teeth and brown or white stains are all signs of dental fluorosis. If this happens to you, see a dentist before continuing to use fluoride further.
Benefits of Fluoride-Free Toothpaste
If you're thinking about switching to a fluoride-free toothpaste for your kids, a smear of fluoride toothpaste is recommended from the emergence of the first tooth until they're three years old. For youngsters aged 3-6, a pea-sized amount is advised. These doses are calculated to account for the possibility of dental fluorosis. It is possible that your teeth will feel scratchy.
If you find out you're allergic to fluoride, there are several fluoride-free kinds of toothpaste to choose from. Consult your doctor if you have any questions regarding how fluoride affects your health in general or how it impacts specific medical issues. If you think you're getting enough fluoride from food and drinks, talk to your dentist or doctor about your unique fluoride requirements.
There is a big difference between fluoride applied topically, and fluoride consumed as part of your oral health. Fluoride in dental products strengthens existing teeth and makes them more resistant to decay, whereas fluoride in the body has a systemic effect (ingested). Fluorides aid in the development of robust tooth structures prior to eruption. Saliva also contains systemic fluoride, which helps to keep your mouth protected at all times. However, it is absolutely imperative to keep a tab on the limit of consumption.