Fluoride in toothpaste is an ever confusing topic in the dental industry. Many different dental professionals tell you that it’s safe and okay to have in your products, while others warn of the damages it can cause.
We understand that not everyone will ever agree on the use of fluoride within both dental practices and oral hygiene products. Nonetheless, we’re here to at least ensure that you’re very informed before you choose to use fluoride.
It’s important that you at least know what fluoride is and that you’re not just assuming it’s good for you.
What Even is Fluoride?
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that can be found in a number of places. Water often has natural fluoride along with different food sources. Studies of the substance have shown that fluoride helps to prevent tooth decay and cavities. Because of the benefits that fluoride has been shown to have, many municipal water supplies now have added fluoride.
In that way, avoiding fluoride can be very difficult and, in some cases, impossible. But is added fluoride good for you?
Benefits of Fluoride In Toothpaste for Kids and Adults
So, what’s the difference between kids and adults, and why do so many people disagree on one vs. the other receiving regular fluoride? We’ll break it down so that you have a better understanding of how it works.
Benefits and Recommendations for Kids
The benefits of fluoride for kids show themselves directly in the prevention of cavities and tooth decay from a young age. In fact, it’s recommended that children receive a small amount of fluoride in the form of toothpaste from the time their first tooth appears until age three. At age, three kids can be exposed to slightly more fluoride in an added effort to ensure that their teeth stay healthy.
Other fluoride applications such as a varnish by pediatricians and drinking fluoridated water from the tap are safe and can also help to keep your kid’s mouths free of cavities.
Benefits and Recommendations for Adults
Adults will encounter higher doses of fluoride in their toothpaste, mouthwash, and dental treatments. Many dental professionals offer fluoride treatments where you’re able to have your teeth immersed in fluoride for several minutes.
Here are some of the benefits of fluoride for adults:
- Protects the enamel on your teeth
- Puts minerals back on your teeth
- Helps to prevent cavities and tooth decay
- Saves money by keeping your mouth clean and free of decay
- A natural way to prevent tooth decay
All of these benefits are desired by most. And fluoride can even help adult teeth appear whiter and brighter. There’s a reason that fluoride is included in the ingredients of most dental products, and that’s because adults continue to see the benefits of it over time.
Fluoride Free: Why You Might Choose Not to Use Fluoride
There are a number of reasons why some adults may choose to go fluoride-free or keep their kids fluoride-free. As stated earlier, being entirely fluoride-free isn’t entirely possible. Because municipal utilities infuse the water with fluoride, you’ll always be exposed to some level of fluoride. But, going fluoride-free with your dental products and dental hygiene products allows you to better control the amount of fluoride your body comes in contact with.
Swallowing fluoride toothpaste can pose some problems because the high amounts of fluoride concentration in the toothpaste isn’t always ideal to consume. In that case, going fluoride-free is a way to keep these concentrations out of your system. However, fluoride does perform best when directly applied to the surface of the teeth. Minimal effects are noticed from drinking fluoride.
Best Fluoride Toothpaste in 2024
Here are some of the best kinds of toothpaste on the market in 2023.
1. hello
Offering all different types of dental products, hello, has some great fluoride and fluoride-free toothpaste. Be sure to check out their products!
2. Crest
A big name brand in toothpaste, Crest offers some of the most competitive toothpaste on the market and has been doing so for years.
3. Colgate
Colgate is arguably the biggest name in toothpaste. They offer various products and variations in their toothpaste products that can help whiten your teeth and provide cavity protection.
4. Sensodyne
Sensitive teeth? Never fear, Sensodyne is here! This toothpaste brand has made its name by providing a product that legitimately helps people who struggle with pain in their teeth. And best of all? It really works!
5. Davids
Looking for an all-natural fluoride-free toothpaste? Davids is one of the greatest and has built up a reputation for excellence. Check out their products and reviews from their raving customers. You’ll like what you see!
Contact Wayzata Dental For Professional Help!
Looking for a fluoride treatment? Visit Wayzata dental, and we’ll get you taken care of. We’d be happy to help you get the treatment that you need and provide you with a relaxing and refreshing dental experience.
