All the Facts and Myths Regarding Fluoride

Fluoride is one of those topics that causes a lot of confusion, especially when separating dental myths and facts. A lot of misconceptions concerning fluoride exist, making it hard to tell between facts and myths. 

Here are some of the most common fluoride myths, as well as the facts, to help you make an informed choice the next time you buy toothpaste.

Dental Myths about Fluoride

1. Fluoride is a Harmful Chemical

Some people believe that fluoride is a harmful chemical, but this is not true. Fluoride is a mineral which exists naturally. Certain foods and bodies of water, such as rivers, lakes, and oceans, contain trace levels of fluoride, and there are also tiny amounts in the human body. 

2. Fluoride Causes Fluorosis 

Dental fluorosis, a condition that causes white spots on the teeth, can result from excessive fluoride usage during the early years of tooth development. However, it is usually moderate and aesthetically pleasing, rather than dangerous, and it is usually linked with far greater fluoride levels than those found in fluoridated water.

3. Fluoridated Water Is a Kind of Mass Medication

The misconception comes from an unfamiliarity of the purpose of water fluoridation in public water supplies. Fluoridation is about balancing fluoride levels in order to prevent tooth decay, not medicating the general population.

4. Fluoride is Harmful to Children

Another popular myth regarding fluoride is that it is harmful to children. The truth is, anything excessive is dangerous. 

Use children’s fluoride toothpaste, just to be sure. Fluoride toothpaste with a 1,000 parts per million (ppm) concentration should be used over the age of two. Above this, use fluoride levels of 1,350-1,500ppm to ensure proper dental health.

They can start using adult toothpaste, which contains approximately 1500 ppm fluoride after they have adult teeth, which normally occurs around the age of 6. This amount of fluoride is important for maintaining good oral health. Some kids want the taste of children’s toothpaste to be less minty.

5. Fluoride Causes Cancer

There isn’t any credible scientific proof that fluoridating drinking water causes cancer. Many studies have been carried out, and major health organisations, including the National Cancer Institute, have established no link between fluoride and cancer.

6. Natural alternatives to fluoride are just as effective

Though some natural products, such as xylitol, may give some benefits, they may not provide as much protection against tooth decay as fluoride, a mineral widely used in various dental treatments. Fluoride’s effectiveness has been clearly shown throughout many decades of research.

Dental Facts about Fluoride

1. Fluoride Protects Your Teeth from Tooth Decay

Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and reduces the chance of cavities. It helps to remineralise parts of the enamel that are starting to decay.

2. Fluoride is a naturally occurring chemical

Fluoride is a naturally occurring element. Significant levels can be found in certain foods and bodies of water such as rivers, lakes, and seas, as well as in very small concentrations in the human body. 

3. Fluoridated Water is Safe

The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States has even named community water fluoridation as one of the 10 greatest public health achievements of the twentieth century. 

4. Fluoride performs best in small amounts

Fluoride is most efficient when applied in small amounts. It’s essential for dental health. This is why it is found in low concentrations of public water supplies, toothpaste, and mouthwash.

For the Truth About Fluoride and all your Dentistry Needs Contact Blessing Dental Care

Are you worried about fluoride? Unsure what to believe? Blessing Dental Care is here to set the record straight! Empower yourself with facts and myths to make the best decisions for your oral health.

Don’t let misconceptions prevent you from enjoying a healthy, beautiful smile. 

Call us today at 07922 629478 to book an appointment with a dentist and receive expert information on how fluoride might benefit your oral health.

Blessing Dental Care is your reliable partner in oral wellness.