Fluoride Or Fluoride Free Toothpaste

Fluoride-free toothpaste is now becoming a trend in Malaysia. These toothpaste brands come from Europe, New Zealand and Australia. Many might wonder what’s the deal with fluoride-free versus fluoride toothpaste. This article surmises the debate out there when choosing between fluoride and fluoride-free toothpaste.

The Debate

Choose Fluoride Toothpaste

• Fluoride is clinically proven to strengthen tooth enamel^{1, 2}
• Reduce tooth decay and cavities significantly since its discovery¹
• Safe in small amounts when used topically²
• Cases of toxicity are very rare²
• European Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (EAPD) recommends the use of fluoride toothpaste to everyone including pregnant women and children²
• Ministry of Health Malaysia recommends the use of fluoride toothpaste for brushing teeth³

Choose Fluoride-Free Toothpaste

• Fear of overexposure to fluoride – Tap water in Malaysia has already a fluoride concentration of 0.4 – 0.6mg/L.⁴
• Overexposure to fluoride may lead to dental fluorosis (a form of enamel deformation)²
• Overdose of fluoride associated with toxicity symptoms ranging from nausea, weakness to even muscle paralysis²
• Fluoride free toothpaste such as “Red Seal” contain no artificial colors, harsh chemicals and are all natural ingredients and therefore very safe

Take away message

• Consider rather the needs of yourself and your family before choosing, i.e. teeth whitening, gum care, kids’ toothpaste, sensitive teeth and chemical free.
• Avoid the following preservative ingredients in toothpaste: Triclosan⁵ and parabens⁶
• For children, try to avoid fluoride toothpaste as they have a habit of swallowing toothpaste
• Choose a high quality product that is also safe as you’re putting it into your mouth about 700 times a year