Benefits, Recommendations, and Risks
Fluoride in toothpaste is essential inpreventing cavities, also known as dental caries.
It does this through several mechanisms.
This is due to the significant decrease in cavities after fluoride was first added to water in 1945.
Verywell / Jessica Olah
However, despite its ability to reduce cavities, many individuals remain concerned aboutfluoride’s safety.
This article will explain how fluoride works and the benefits and risks of fluoride in toothpaste.
It also addresses the dangers of too much fluoride and alternatives for those who need it.
How Fluoride in Toothpaste Helps
Scientists have determined several ways fluoride strengthens teeth and helps prevent cavities.
This is why most dentists and healthcare professionals recommend twice-daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste.
Before this, individuals utilized powders and other forms of dental cleaning.
Despite their brown appearance, Dr. McKay discovered these teeth were more resistant to cavities.
Children born after the city fluoridated their water had a 60% reduction in cavities.
This amount maximizes the benefits of fluoride while minimizing the risk of fluorosis if the child ingests the toothpaste.
Otherwise, children and adults aged 6 and older can use the same amounts of toothpaste.
Most commercial brands contain between 1,000 ppm and 1,100 ppm.
High-fluoride toothpaste generally contains fluoride in concentrations of 5,000 ppm and is only available with a prescription.
However, it comes with a greater risk of fluorosis (spots on the teeth).
If you think you need a higher concentration of toothpaste, talk to your healthcare provider for advice.
Types of Fluoride Toothpaste
There are three different types of fluoride found in fluoride toothpaste.
They are:
To receive the ADA seal, toothpaste must contain fluoride.
However, the throw in of fluoride and other ingredients may differ depending on your needs.
For example, you will likely prefer stannous fluoride toothpaste if you havesensitive teeth.
Stannous fluoride can help with tooth sensitivity due to touch and the air.
For those with teeth sensitive to cold, calcium sodiumphosphosilicateis often added.
Other desensitizing agents may also be found in ADA-approved toothpaste.
Many toothpastes contain whitening agents.
These agents do not affect fluoride’s ability to protect your teeth.
Additionally, the fluoride in toothpaste can help teeth remain whiter by protecting the outer layer of enamel.
Fluorosis occurs most commonly in children eight and under whose teeth are still developing.
Other than the risk of fluorosis, fluoride in toothpaste is considered safe when used in the proper amounts.
Rarely a child can get fluoride poisoning if they overeat toothpaste containing fluoride or consumemouthwashor other products containing fluoride.
Controversies Surrounding Fluoride
Despite its benefits, some individuals are concerned fluoride causes more harm than good.
Most of the controversy surrounds fluoridation in the water.
Some individuals are also concerned that fluoride can contribute to cancer,particularly bone cancer.
However, the studies examining this link have demonstrated flawed methodologies and poor evidence.
Additionally, there is a misconception that Europe does not fluoridate its water.
There are even fluoridated milk programs in some European countries.
Standard fluoride toothpaste and the public water supply are regulated to remain at safe levels.
Much of the research focuses on calcium-phosphate-containing toothpastes.
Many are concerned about the controversies surrounding fluoride.
While alternatives to fluoride toothpaste exist, they are not yet approved by the ADA.
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AAP Recommends Fluoride to Prevent Dental Caries.
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ADA Uses Fluoride Toothpaste to Fight High Cavity Rate in Children.
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