Are you concerned about your oral health? You're absolutely right! Brushing your teeth well after every meal will ensure that your oral hygiene is impeccable, while leaving you with a pleasantly fresh feeling. Now you should know that the choice of toothpastes you use is also very important for clean teeth. Fight tooth decay effectively and use fluoride-free toothpaste for sensitive teeth or other alternatives.
Here is a guide to convince you to choose a fluoride-free toothpaste instead of those with fluoride.
What is fluoride ?
Fluorine is a trace element that is essential to the functioning of the body. It is found in our bones and teeth. It is mostly used in salt form: sodium fluoride in many toothpastes. Its main function in toothpastes is to prevent and treat cavities. It strengthens the tooth enamel, which is the outer layer covering our teeth, to stop the caries process. It allows its remineralisation because it reconstitutes all the minerals dissolved by acids. However, excessive ingestion of fluoride can lead to more or less serious consequences in the long term.
Here are the main harmful effects of fluoride on our health:
- Fluorosis: This is a deterioration of the enamel which is characterised by the formation of white and sometimes brown spots on the teeth.
- Bone fluorosis: This is due to the accumulation of fluorine in the bones, which causes the skeleton to become denser.
- Calcification of our pineal gland: This is the decrease in the production of melatonin.
The benefits of activated charcoal fluoride-free toothpaste
Activated charcoal is made from natural charcoal that is ground into some toothpastes. It is mainly used for its purifying qualities. In addition, foods and substances such as coffee and balsamic vinegar stain and discolour teeth. The purpose of activated carbon is therefore to erase any stains that are deposited on the surface of the enamel.
You can also try the fluoride-free toothpaste tablets from Y-Brush. It is vegan and 100% natural. It reduces acid attack, acts against bacteria, fights plaque and gives your mouth fresh breath.
Ingredients of natural fluoride-free toothpastes
To clean the teeth, many people try homemade toothpaste without the trace element fluoride. These fluoride-free toothpastes provide effective teeth whitening for whiter teeth and good dental health. A good organic fluoride-free toothpaste is one that contains at least one or more of the following natural ingredients
- White clay: it removes all toxins and bacteria from the teeth.
- Mint essential oil: helps to fight gum inflammation.
- Clove: to relieve toothache and to fight against gingivitis and periodontitis.
- Manuka: protects the brilliance of the teeth and prevents the appearance of dental plaque.
- Sodium bicarbonate: neutralises the acids that cause stains on the teeth.
- Aloe vera: It has anti-inflammatory and anti-plaque properties.
- Natural additive dyes: They are just as effective as fluoride in combating tooth decay.
- Coconut oil: Balances the acidity of the mouth and whitens tooth enamel.
The benefits of fluoride-free toothpaste for children
Most periodontal disease and tooth sensitivity are caused by poor oral hygiene. Take care of your children's teeth and your own by reducing sugars and foods that cause acid attacks. While fluoride toothpaste is suitable for adults, for children's toothpaste it is best to use a non-fluoride toothpaste. It will freshen the breath in your little one's mouth and effectively protect against tooth decay and fluorosis. For white teeth, choose a natural plant-based toothpaste.
Here are the main brands of fluoride-free toothpaste for children:
1) Cattier: Children's toothpaste
This is a raspberry flavoured toothpaste. It has been specially manufactured for use by children aged 2 to 6 years. It is bio-natural, which means that it protects the enamel of the teeth and helps to keep the gums healthy. It is not abrasive but rather gentle as it is free of sulphates and chemical surfactants. In addition, it contains softening organic aloe vera gel which is rich in minerals and vitamins to help protect teeth and gums properly. In addition, it contains silica and citric acid which help to brighten teeth.
2) URTEKRAM: Original fluoride-free children's toothpaste
This is a vegan toothpaste. It has been specially manufactured for use by children from 6 years old. It contains three ingredients that are 100% natural and therefore organically grown. Firstly, it contains glycerine which helps to make teeth whiter. It also contains aloe barbadensis leaf extract which helps to remove plaque from the teeth. Finally, the presence of fennel brings freshness to the teeth. However, it is primarily used to prevent cavities and other oral problems.
3) TOOFRUIT : Toothpaste for children without fluoride
This toothpaste is perfectly suitable for children from 3 years old and is safe to ingest. It is certified organic and composed of more than 99% of natural ingredients. The ingredients in this toothpaste help to relieve oral problems. Apple water and aloe vera prevent the formation of dental plaque. Glycerine soothes the gums and teeth. Finally, mint provides an immediate feeling of freshness. In addition, the presence of erylite, a molecule resulting from the fermentation of glucose, helps to prevent the formation of tooth decays.
Other alternatives to the use of fluoride
Fluoride can easily be replaced by ingredients of biological and natural origin that offer effective protection against dental caries.
The most effective ingredients that can replace fluoride are
Hydroxyapatite
This is a calcium phosphate which is the main component of our teeth. It has a structure almost identical to that of our dental enamel. It therefore remineralises the teeth and fills in carious lesions. It is the most widely used anti-caries active ingredient in Japanese oral care products.
Xylitol and erythritol
These are sweeteners mainly derived from fermented foods. They are effective in combating caries. They are not metabolised by the bacteria in our mouth. They therefore do not become the acids that are often the cause of enamel damage. In addition, they intoxicate the bacteria and reduce their proliferation.
We hope this guide has helped you understand the negative effects on your teeth. We also hope that you have understood what ingredients you can use to replace it in your toothpaste. It is much more advisable for children than for adults as too much fluoride is a little more dangerous for them.