If you'd like to learn more about fluoride and the benefits of products like fluoride toothpaste and fluoride mouthwash, please read on! We'll discuss both the positives and potential negatives of this powerful element.

What is fluoride?

Fluoride is a common, abundant, and natural mineral that can be found throughout nature. This includes plants, rocks, the air, soil, and some freshwater sources like rivers, lakes, and oceans. There's even fluoride in both your teeth and bones! 

The connection between dental health and fluoride was first made in the early 20th century. Since then, countries around the world have begun putting fluoride in public drinking water to improve the population's dental health. Fluoride has also become a major ingredient in most toothpaste brands, mouthwashes, and supplements. 

The benefits of fluoride

So, what exactly makes fluoride so great? Here are just a few of fluoride's many oral health benefits.

• Reduces tooth decay — Fluoride can reduce tooth decay by anywhere from 20% to 40%. This occurs when fluoride comes in contact with the surface of your teeth or when it becomes a part of the structure of developing teeth. 
• Strengthens enamel — Fluoride remineralises the outer layer of your teeth, your tooth enamel. This prevents the growth of oral bacteria and...
• Prevents cavities — Cavities occur when the bacteria in our mouths break down our enamel. By strengthening and repairing tooth enamel, fluoride helps protect our teeth from developing cavities. 

The disadvantages of fluoride

There are very few disadvantages to fluoride. However, there are two possible drawbacks that may cause some people to opt for fluoride-free dental products. 

• Neurotoxin — Fluoride is a neurotoxin, which is a toxin that's destructive to nerve tissue. This being the case, it should never be ingested in high amounts. Doing so could lead to dental fluorosis or skeletal fluorosis. However, this is really only a concern for children just learning how to brush properly or those who have disabilities that make brushing more difficult.
• Possible allergen — A very small subset of the population is allergic to fluoride. Thankfully, there are many high-quality fluoride-free alternatives for those who fall into this group.

Is fluoride right for you?

If you don't swallow your toothpaste or mouthwash in excessive amounts or don't have an allergy to fluoride, then fluoride dental products are a fantastic choice. Young children who have a tendency to ingest their toothpaste, however, may need to start with fluoride-free toothpaste. 

While fluoride is absolutely safe and effective for the majority of the population, it's okay to ask a dental professional for more information. Your dentist will be able to tell you whether or not fluoride-free products are a better option for you or a loved one.

White Glo has all the fluoride dental products you need

Founded in 1993, Australia's White Glo now offers a massive variety of vegan-friendly and cruelty-free dental care products. The vast majority of these products offer fluoride protection against cavities and tooth decay. This includes fluoride-based mouthwash, fluoride toothpaste, and much more. 

We encourage you to reach out to us with any questions you may have about fluoride, our dental products, or anything else. Simply fill out our enquiry form, or you can call 1300 729 930 (AUS) or (+61) 2 9479 0888 (INT).