A white toothpaste tube and toothbrush against a blue background

Should You Use a Fluoride-Free Toothpaste?

It’s no secret that fluoride is preferred by dentists. 2 Since it first became widely used in the mid-twentieth century in toothpaste, fluoride has proven itself to be the most effective ingredient in helping prevent cavities in children and adults.1,2 But what about fluoride-free toothpaste? Does a fluoride-free toothpaste work better than a fluoride toothpaste, and should you use one?

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What is Fluoride and Why Is It in Toothpaste?

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that helps strengthen and harden enamel.1,2,3 It’s the thirteenth most common element on our planet and is an essential ingredient in dental products like toothpaste and mouthwash.2,3

The reason why fluoride is used so widely in dental products is its efficacy in strengthening tooth enamel.1,2 Most of our teeth have daily exposure to sugar, which is found in starchy foods and sugary drinks like soda, candy and sweets.1 Bacteria feed on the left over foods and sugars on the teeth after consuming these foods and drinks, and release acids that can weaken your enamel and lead to cavities.1 Fluoride can help to prevent these sugar acids from compromising your teeth enamel, working as a shield.1 That’s why dentists strongly recommend using a fluoride-based toothpaste twice a day, avoiding sugary foods and regularly seeing a dentist for a professional cleaning.1,2,3

How Fluoride Made Its Break into the Dental World

Between the 1940s and 1960s, overwhelming evidence surfaced that demonstrated fluoride as an effective way to prevent cavities.2 Scientists found that communities with naturally occurring fluoride in the water had a lower incidence of cavities and tooth decay than communities without adequate fluoridation.2

Studies show children experience far fewer dental caries today as compared to over 60 years ago.2 Researchers suggest that it's due to modern dental care and more advanced toothpaste formulas that include fluoride.2

Are There Any Downsides to Fluoride?

Fluoride is a safe and naturally occurring element, and more than  100 health organizations, like the World Health Organization (WHO) recognize its efficacy as a safe addition in small doses to community water and toothpaste.1 However, a common concern of fluoride held by some is fluorosis, which is the excessive mineralization (extra-hardening) of the enamel.2  The primary concern of fluorosis is teeth mottling, which are yellow, brown or white spots on teeth.2 While it may be aesthetically unappealing, teeth mottling caused by fluorosis isn’t harmful.2

So, What Happens if You Stop Using a Toothpaste with Fluoride?

As history and extensive research have shown, fluoride is a proven ingredient that helps support enamel remineralization and prevent tooth decay.2,3 So if you choose to brush with fluoride-free toothpaste, you may be at greater risk of developing cavities, which can lead to other costly problems if not taken care of.2,3

The Verdict: No, You Shouldn’t Use a Fluoride-Free Toothpaste

Using a fluoride-free toothpaste can increase your risk of cavities. So do the smart thing and have you and any of your children brush twice daily with a fluoride-based toothpaste to help strengthen weakened enamel.2,3

Source Citations:

  1. How fluoride helps to prevent tooth decay. Mouth Healthy. https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/fluoride. Accessed 07/15/2024.
  2. Debating Water Fluoridation Before Dr. Strangelove. National Library of Medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4504307/. Accessed 06/22/2024.
  3. Common Fluoridation Myths Answered. American Fluoridation Society. https://americanfluoridationsociety.org/debunking-anti-claims/myths/. Accessed 06/22/2024.