If you’re reading this article, you’re probably wondering, “Do adults need fluoride toothpaste?”
In short, the answer is no: adults don’t need fluoride toothpaste! This is because the market now has multiple fluoride-free alternatives that clean teeth just as effectively (if not more).
Fluoride can still be beneficial for your enamel, but it’s hard to bring yourself to purchase it when there are just so many fantastic new options for the perfect smile.
You wouldn’t be alone in making the switch either. In recent years, thousands of Americans have made a conscious decision to ditch fluoride for a healthier alternative such as hydroxyapatite or n-Ha toothpaste like Boka.
This is because n-Ha contains a calcium-phosphorus compound that comprises 97% of your tooth enamel and 70% of your dentin meaning that it can biomimic your natural tooth composition, unlike any other toothpaste on the market.
So, if you’re simply sick of what fluoride toothpaste could be doing to your body, or are already searching for a fluoride-free alternative that would work better for you: read on!
This article will answer all of your toothpaste-related questions and assist you in finding the best option for maintaining your precious pearly whites. Specifically, this guide will cover:
- Fluoride and how it works to keep teeth healthy
- The benefits and drawbacks of fluoride toothpaste
- How to choose the right ingredients for your toothpaste
- A great option: Boka’s non-toxic and dentist-approved toothpaste!
Let’s find out how you can better take care of your teeth by jumping right into this helpful guide!
Overview Of Fluoride In Toothpaste And How It Works
If you’re like most people in America, chances are you’ve got some fluoride toothpaste sitting somewhere in your bathroom!
Fluoride toothpaste is immensely popular due to its ability to help prevent tooth decay and the fact that it’s relatively inexpensive to mass produce.
Fluoride toothpaste works by reducing acid-producing mouth bacteria, reversing the signs of early dental caries or incipient lesions before they turn into cavities, encouraging saliva production to neutralize harmful acids, strengthening tooth enamel, and preventing decay through remineralization.
The Benefits And Drawbacks Of Fluoride Toothpaste
There are multiple benefits of fluoride toothpaste. However, fluoride toothpastes also have multiple drawbacks you must consider.
Benefits of fluoride toothpaste
Strengthens enamel
Weak enamel? Never fear! Fluoride is great for strengthening the protective outer layer of your teeth.
This helps to protect your pearly whites from bacteria and harmful corrosive acids so you don’t have to worry about any future cavities.
One study showed that damaged enamel in children could be restored through regular use of fluoride-based products.
Prevents tooth decay
Fluoride toothpaste will prevent the demineralization of your tooth enamel, stopping tooth decay right in its tracks.
A 2019 study even found that when compared to non-fluoride-based toothpaste products, fluoride formulas did much more to prevent caries and decay in adolescents.
Inhibits bacterial growth
Worried about developing cavities and gum disease?
Fluoride toothpaste has also been proven to inhibit the growth of disease-causing bacteria in the oral cavity.
This is because fluoride’s antimicrobial components help to reduce the acid tolerance of bacteria.
Promotes remineralization
If your teeth are lacking minerals due to the presence of acids, fluoride is a good option.
Fluoride can speed up the process by which new fluorapatite crystals bring calcium and phosphate ions together to create much healthier tooth enamel.
Recommended by dental associations
The American Dental Association notes that “all toothpastes with the ADA Seal of Acceptance must contain fluoride.”
It’s not just the U, however; dental associations from around the world rave about fluoride’s many benefits.
Drawbacks of fluoride toothpaste
Risk of fluorosis
The primary downside to fluoride toothpaste (especially if over-consumed in childhood) is the discoloration of teeth, otherwise known as fluorosis.
Dr. Leonard Patella, a dentist from New York, noted that “if you give too much fluoride, it can be toxic. And too much fluoride, if ingested, can cause damage to teeth. It can cause something called fluorosis.”
Allergy (rare)
Although extremely rare, it has been noted that fluoride has the potential to cause some allergic reactions in people. However, the research is not extensive and these allergies are often minor swellings or rashes.
Ingestion concerns for children
Due to the first 8 years of a child’s life being extremely formative in the development of their teeth, it is recommended by most dentists that they do not regularly use fluoride-based toothpaste products and water.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that severe fluorosis will occur where the presence of fluoride in the water supply is more than 2 milligrams per liter.
Environmental impact
Trying to be more eco-conscious? You might want to steer clear of fluoride as it has been known to affect aquatic life and ecosystems!
The National Center for Biotechnology Information notes its serious health risks to plants, animals, and humans.
Taste sensitivity
Those with sensitive teeth should also be aware that fluoride toothpaste can lead to discomfort while brushing.
However, if your tooth sensitivity is due to decay, it has been noted that using fluoride will help in reducing this problem.
How To Choose The Right Ingredients For Your Toothpaste
Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t worry! While weighing up the pros and cons of fluoride toothpaste can be difficult, we’re here to help.
There are multiple alternatives that have the same benefits as your typical fluoride-based products but without the downsides!
Some fantastic options include those made for sensitive teeth, such as potassium nitrate or strontium chloride toothpaste. You could even consider products used to treat stains or discoloration such as charcoal or zinc citrate.
Of course, toothpastes that contain hydroxyapatite (n-Ha) is a great option for adults wanting an alternative to everyday fluoride toothpaste.
Another 2019 study discovered that hydroxyapatite toothpastes like Boka’s toothpaste create a thin coating on the teeth that is much sturdier than that created by your typical fluoride product.
In fact, Boka’s toothpaste has been proven by researchers to reduce sensitivity, maintain healthy gums, whiten teeth, remineralize teeth, freshen breath, and support general enamel strength.
Regardless of what you buy, make sure to consider what matters to you. Weigh up everything from oral health conditions and sensitivity to tartar buildup and respective allergies.
Try Boka’s Non-Toxic And Dentist-Approved Toothpaste
It's clear that adults don’t need fluoride toothpaste and that there are many fantastic fluoride-free alternatives to your typical store-bought products. Standing out amongst them all are hydroxyapatite-based toothpastes.
Boka’s toothpaste has all of the amazing benefits of your typical hydroxyapatite toothpaste with added advantages from its non-toxic ingredients to its dentist-approved formula.
Boka toothpaste also comes in great flavors such as Ela Mint, Coco Ginger, Lemon Lavender, and Orange Cream – much better than those artificial flavors you get from supermarket brands.
Boka also frequently has a variety of great deals such as back-to-school and travel pack specials. We also have a variety of floss and mouthwash products available as well – a one-stop, tooth-cleaning shop!
n-Ha toothpaste is the obvious choice regarding your oral health, so why not start with Boka?
We’re passionate about oral hygiene and have a variety of proven ingredients and feel-good formulas that will run laps around those found in your typical fluoride-based product.
You can easily pick up the next step to a healthy smile right here!