Toothpaste without fluoride

Have you ever looked closely at the list of ingredients on a tube of toothpaste? In most commercially available products, between water, glycerin and aromatic plant extracts, you will often find an active ingredient called sodium fluoride. This is said to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent tooth decay. However, there are situations in which it may be useful to use a toothpaste without fluoride. Read on to learn more about the use of this ingredient in dental care and when a fluoride-free alternative might be appropriate.

What function does fluoride have in toothpaste?

Fluorides are chemical compounds of hydrofluoric acid. In the context of toothpaste, this often refers to the trace element sodium fluoride, a colorless and odorless solid. Other common fluorides in toothpastes are amine fluoride and sodium monofluorophosphate.

Fluoride plays a crucial role in dental health as it mineralizes tooth enamel and makes it harder. It also has antibacterial properties. However, fluoride is not essential for cleaning teeth. Manufacturers of fluoride-free toothpastes use alternative substances to strengthen teeth.

It is important to know that sodium fluoride is not only found in toothpaste, but also in table salt, drinking water and many foods, either naturally or as an additive.

Reasons for using toothpaste without fluoride

Although fluoride is beneficial for dental health, there are situations in which it may be advisable to avoid fluoride in dental care products. These reasons could be:

1. Avoiding overdose: Since toothpaste is only used in small amounts, a harmful overdose of fluoride is practically impossible. However, avoiding fluoride can be an additional safety measure.
2. Natural products: Many organic and vegan toothpastes do not only contain fluoride, but also other chemical additives. These products can be a more environmentally friendly alternative.
3. Sugar-free diet: With a low-sugar diet and careful dental care, saliva may be enough to remineralize tooth enamel, in which case fluoride may not be necessary.
4. Homeopathy: For people who prefer alternative medicine and want to avoid chemical components such as fluoride, fluoride-free products may be an option.

Which toothpaste without fluoride is available on the market?

Some manufacturers already offer toothpaste without fluoride, which instead contains hydroxyapatite, a calcium phosphate salt. These products are intended to strengthen tooth enamel in a similar way to fluoride. Alternatively, the sugar alcohol xylitol is often used as a substitute, which inhibits the formation of lactic acid.

Toothpaste without fluoride often contains zinc for its disinfecting effect and chalk or silica as a cleaning agent. Natural plant extracts and minerals can replace conventional ingredients in many products.

Ben&Anna offers three dental care products without fluoride, individually and in 3er Set . 

Toothpaste with or without fluoride

There are several reasons why one might choose toothpaste without fluoride. These products offer alternative ways to care for your teeth and can be beneficial in certain situations. Regardless of the toothpaste you choose, regular and thorough oral hygiene is crucial to maintaining dental health.