Do I Need to Use Fluoride Toothpaste?

Fluoride toothpaste offers cavity-preventing benefits for everyone.

Fluoride has become a somewhat controversial topic in recent years as some communities have fought to stop adding this natural mineral to their water supplies.

This has led some individuals to wonder about fluoride in toothpaste. Here’s what you need to know:

Fluoride Helps Teeth

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that helps strengthen teeth to make them more resistant to cavities. It does this in several ways, but one of the most important is by affecting how minerals are absorbed by and lost from the surface of the tooth. Saliva is always delivering minerals to teeth to help them repair themselves after minor damage from tooth decay bacteria. Fluoride helps these minerals adhere better, while also slowing the rate at which minerals are lost due to decay. The end result is stronger teeth.

Excessive Fluoride Exposure is a Risk for Kids

The only potential downside for fluoride is that it does have the potential to cause fluorosis in young children who are exposed to too much fluoride. This can happen if children use too much fluoride toothpaste or if fluoride concentrations in the water supply are too high. To prevent fluorosis from causing white spots or streaks on kids’ enamel, it is recommended to supervise kids under 6 while they brush their teeth and make sure they use only a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. You can also inquire about fluoride levels in your municipal water supply or have your well water tested for fluoride.

Toothpastes Have Safe Fluoride Levels

Toothpastes are specially formulated to contain safe and appropriate fluoride levels that will help—not harm—teeth. For the best peace of mind about the quality of your fluoride toothpaste, choose a product that carries the ADA seal of approval.

Fluoride Toothpaste is Recommended—but Not Required—For Everyone

Fluoride toothpaste is beneficial for everyone. However, if your teeth are naturally strong and resistant to tooth decay, you might not see much of a benefit from using fluoride toothpaste. On the other hand, if your teeth are prone to cavities and decay, brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste is going to be very important for protecting your teeth and supporting your oral health. If you eat a diet high in the sugars and carbs that tooth decay bacteria love, you need to be especially careful to practice good oral hygiene at home using fluoride toothpaste.