Our efforts for green living are supported by partnerships. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.
Millions have switched to fluoride free toothpaste and for good reason.
Before we look into various options for toothpaste without fluoride, let's first all about fluoride in toothpaste.
What is fluoride and why is it used in toothpaste?
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in water, plants, soil, and food items like oatmeal, raisins, potatoes, canned shellfish, and more.
It has been used in toothpaste due to its protective action against tooth caries (tooth decay or cavities) which can cause pain and infection, leading to loss of tooth function, and finally, having to lose the tooth.
Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay by strengthening (remineralizing) tooth enamel, which is the protective outer layer of your teeth. It makes the tooth resistant to attack from acids and bacteria and can help prevent tooth sensitivity and protect the tooth from damage.
However, increased quantities of fluoride can cause health risks, among which dental fluorosis is most common. Due to this, numerous toothpastes with fluoride restrict fluoride to a recommended level.
What Is the recommended level of fluoride in toothpaste?
For children up to three years of age, the fluoride level should not be more than 1000 parts per million (ppm).
Over three years of age, the recommended level of fluoride in toothpaste is 1350 ppm to 1500 ppm.
Why avoid fluoride in toothpaste?
1. Fluoride Poisoning
Fluoride toothpaste has warning signs not to use amounts more than pea-sized for brushing, especially for children. Most importantly it is warned not to swallow the toothpaste.
Higher levels of fluoride can be harmful as it can lead to dental fluorosis and skeletal fluorosis.
2. Dental and Skeletal Fluorosis
Fluoride ions are a negative charge which reacts with the positively charged calcium in the teeth.
This leads to the formation of a fluorapatite layer on the tooth and the depletion of natural hydroxyapatite.
Long-term intake of excess fluoride in childhood can lead to dental fluorosis.
The characteristic features of dental fluorosis are white lines or flecks which can change to white or brown stains on teeth. This also makes the tooth surface pitted and irregular.
Increased accumulation of fluoride in bones can cause skeletal fluorosis. The symptoms include weak bones, stiffness, and pain in the joints.
3. You might already have enough fluoride sources apart from toothpaste
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral present in water, and food sources like oatmeal, potatoes, raisins, shrimp, blue crab, etc.
Some places have projects implemented to provide fluoridated water and milk or conduct school fluoridation programs to prevent tooth decay in children.
The requirement of fluoride for adult men is 4 mg and in women 3 mg.
If you are in places such as mountainous regions, or places with higher fluoride content in water, you are likely to have enough fluoride by default.
In such cases, using toothpaste with fluoride can be overkill.
4. Fluoride is not an essential nutrient
No diseases were reported due to deficiency of fluoride. The absence of fluoride is not an important causative factor of tooth decay. The body doesn't need fluoride in large amounts.
5. Fluoride is not key to remineralization
89% of the enamel consists of calcium hydroxyapatite. Other minor components are calcium carbonate, magnesium phosphate, and finally calcium fluoride (which is less than 2%)
With less than 2% of the tooth consisting of fluoride, the focus should be on calcium and phosphorus, which are vital nutrients in promoting tooth repair.
6. A Fluoride Toothpaste typically contains other toxic ingredients
Fluoride is not the only harmful ingredient. Other chemicals which typically accompany fluoride toothpaste can also be harmful. Some of these are
Triclosan.
Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)
Propylene glycol
Cocamidopropyl betaine
Paraben.
Artificial sweeteners
Diethanol amines
7. Fluoride cannot ensure a cavity free mouth by itself
Tooth decay or cavities can be caused due to multiple reasons, and the action of fluoride is not solely responsible in fighting these. Newer toothpaste options contain new ways to address tooth caries, apart from use of fluoride.
8. Fluoride Free Toothpaste options can be equally good or better, without the risks
A non fluoride toothpaste typically contains hydroxyapatite, which helps in the remineralization of the teeth. Studies suggest such toothpaste gives the same protection as that of toothpaste with fluoride.
Using natural toothpaste without fluoride can protect oral health without risks.
9. Leaving toothpaste for a long time in the mouth
To have the full effect of fluoride over the tooth surface, many people delay rinsing for a long time.
This can lead to fluoride absorption through gums, and also swallowing unknowingly.
For those who prefer to delay rinsing, using natural and non-toxic toothpaste options is better.
When is it recommended to use toothpaste without fluoride?
These are some situations in which it is recommended to avoid fluoridated toothpaste and opt for toothpaste without fluoride
If you have a fluoride allergy.
The tooth shows white or browns stains which are signs of dental fluorosis
The water supply already contains an adequate level of fluoride, or do you have enough fluoride in food sources
You reside in fluoride endemic areas
Children, who are prone to swallowing toothpaste with a habit of swallowing or using too much.
Tips if using fluoride toothpaste for kids
Use only a pea-sized amount of toothpaste
Avoid flavored toothpaste which is more likely to be swallowed
Encourage them to spit out and rinse
Apart from these situations, one can generally choose to use a fluoride free toothpaste to avoid risks with fluoride.
Fluoride Free Toothpaste - An alternative to fluoridated toothpaste
A fluoride free toothpaste challenges conventional dental wisdom which calls for the use of fluoride for its protective action against tooth caries.
Fluoride might not be as essential in some cases, or there can be alternate means of fighting tooth decay.
While some non fluoride toothpaste options might trade off some protective action for a safer product, numerous options can match the effectiveness of fluoride, with the use of alternates such as hydroxyapatite, or being based on natural alternatives, such as balancing oral microbiome with a prebiotic toothpaste.
Advocates for toothpaste without fluoride note that millions have switched to non-fluoride toothpaste and found no problem.
Such options offer a more holistic approach to oral care, especially if also factoring other harmful chemicals which accompany fluoride toothpaste.
Choosing the right fluoride free toothpaste can surely offer effective oral care while being safer.
Biöm, a beloved brand among eco-conscious consumers, prioritizes non-toxic products and sustainability. Their product, NOBS toothpaste tablets, offers pure goodness with natural ingredients, free from unwanted additives
Key Features:
Fluoride-free: The toothpaste tablets are fluoride-free and use nano-hydroxyapatite, a safer alternative that helps remineralize teeth.
Natural ingredients: NOBS is vegan and formulated with natural ingredients like xylitol, calcium hydroxyapatite, and zinc citrate. It offers four subtle flavor options with a gentle touch, each complemented by a hint of mint for a delightful experience.
Mess-Free Usage: The tablets can be used without any mess. Simply open the glass jar, take one tablet, chew, and enjoy a refreshing mouth cleanse without any mess.
Free from plastic: NOBS tablets are free from plastic and BPA which are hormone disruptors.
Perfect size of toothpaste: The toothpaste tablets come in perfect size and are perfectly packed to prevent wastage.
Child-safe product: The product is free from all harmful chemicals and safe for children and pregnant women. Before introducing it to your child ensure the child can chew and swallow.
Cruelty-free: All products at biöm, including the NOBS toothpaste tablets, are cruelty-free, ensuring that neither their finished products nor ingredients are tested on animals by themselves, their suppliers, or third parties.
hello natural oral care brand formulates fluoride free toothpaste with a focus on using natural ingredients for superior oral care. Suitable for everyone above 2 years of age, it's a safe and trusted option for the whole family.
Key Features:
Optimal Oral Care: With essential ingredients like hydrated silica, calcium carbonate, and zinc citrate, the toothpaste effectively removes plaque, tartar, and stains while whitening teeth.
Fights Bad Odor: Natural elements such as peppermint and tea tree oil work together to prevent bad breath, ensuring long-lasting freshness.
Free from Harmful Chemicals: This toothpaste is free from triclosan, parabens, sulfates, BPAs, gluten, artificial sweeteners, and dyes, ensuring a safe and natural formula.
Leaping Bunny Certified Toothpaste: This is a cruelty free toothpaste, and does not test on animals.
Best to Begin: For those looking to transition to a more natural and toxin free lifestyle, this fluoride free toothpaste offers a safe and healthy option without compromising on effectiveness.
Tom's of Maine is a natural oral care brand which uses natural ingredients and eliminates toxic chemicals. With a focus on ethical practices, it has gained popularity among users seeking a toothpaste without fluoride.
Key Features:
Fluoride Free Toothpaste: Natural alternative without compromising effectiveness, with delightful natural flavors for a refreshing experience.
Superior Oral Care: Effectively removes stains and promotes whiter teeth, leaving your smile brighter and healthier.
Derived from Natural Ingredients: Zinc citrate, xylitol, and sodium lauryl sulfate sourced from nature (zinc, birch trees/corn, coconut oil/palm kernel oil).
Free from Harmful Chemicals: No artificial flavors, colors, dyes, or preservatives, emphasizing a commitment to naturalness.
Cruelty Free Toothpaste: Never tested on animals, ensuring a cruelty free approach to development and manufacturing.
Certified B Corp: Adheres to high standards of verified performance, reflecting dedication to social and environmental responsibility.
Eco Friendly Packaging: Uses recyclable tubes and environmentally conscious practices in line with sustainability and the zero waste movement.
Boka Fluoride Free Toothpaste offers a comprehensive oral care solution, which prevents caries, strengthens teeth, and respects your preferences.
Key Features:
Say goodbye to fluoride: Embrace a healthy smile without fluoride, catering to your personal choices.
Harnessing the power of nano-hydroxyapatite: Boka's nano-hydroxyapatite (n-Ha) effectively prevents caries while remineralizing teeth, offering resilience against sensitivity—a compelling option for sensitive teeth.
Calcium for strength: Enriched with essential calcium, Boka toothpaste strengthens enamel and jaw bones.
Free from harmful additives: Avoid potentially harmful ingredients like SLS, Triclosan, artificial flavors, and parabens.
Fresh, mild taste: Enjoy a refreshing, mild taste from carefully selected natural flavoring agents.
Safety first: Boka fluoride free toothpaste is thoroughly tested, providing a reliable and safe oral care choice, free from fluoride and addressing health concerns.
Vegan and cruelty free toothpaste: This toothpaste does not involve testing on animals.
Dr. Bronner’s All-In-One Toothpaste, with organic ingredients for maintaining optimal oral health.
Key Features:
Organic Ingredients: Embrace the power of nature with toothpaste composed of an impressive 70% organic ingredients.
Optimal Oral Care: Natural components like coconut flour and oil, which work to combat plaque and stains, contribute to healthy gums, providing you with a well-rounded oral care experience.
Fresh Breath: Toothpaste features the gentle touch of organic menthol crystals, imparting a naturally fresh breath after every use.
Free From Harmful Chemicals: Meticulously formulated without fluoride, SLS, carrageenan, artificial colors, flavoring agents, and artificial sweeteners.
Vegan and Cruelty Free: Proudly vegan and cruelty free, reflecting a commitment to ethical and sustainable practices.
David's toothpaste was introduced removing all the unhealthy artificial ingredients and replacing them with natural ingredients that leave the mouth super clean and fresh. Experience the revolution in oral care with David's Natural Toothpaste!
Key Features:
Elevates oral care: natural ingredients provide effective plaque removal, teeth whitening, and fresh breath.
Natural ingredients: the toothpaste uses naturally sourced and naturally derived ingredients
Free from harmful chemicals: the toothpaste is completely free from fluoride sulfates, artificial flavors colors, sweetness, and preservatives.
Vegan and cruelty free: Does not use any animal-derived ingredients and is not tested on animals.
Sustainable packaging: Comes in an aluminum metal tube that is recyclable, lined with food-grade non-BPA liner, and aligns with sustainability.
Natural Flavors: Choose from a variety of delightful options.
An intermediate option - Low Fluoride Toothpaste
If you are unsure about fluoride free toothpaste, a great alternative is to use a low fluoride toothpaste.
With any fluoridated toothpaste, always check for fluoride levels, and look for the seal of approval from the American Dental Association.
A low fluoride toothpaste designed to promote enamel repair and combat tooth sensitivity. Developed over a decade at Queen Mary University London and backed by patented technology, this award winning toothpaste stands out as a leader in oral health. It is the only toothpaste certified by the prestigious "Oral Health Foundation" for its exceptional effectiveness in treating sensitive teeth and promoting tooth remineralization.
Key Features:
Optimal Fluoride Level: BioMinF Toothpaste contains a combination of fluoride and calcium phosphosilicate, with a fluoride concentration ranging from 1400 to 1500 ppm. Within just 90 minutes after brushing, the fluoride level reaches a beneficial point, with availability lasting up to 12 hours or 8 times longer than other fluoridated toothpaste brands.
Enamel Repair and Strengthening: The fluoride in BioMinF Toothpaste actively guards against tooth decay, facilitates enamel repair, and strengthens the tooth structure, making it highly resistant to bacterial attacks. It provides a bioavailability of calcium and phosphate, essential for maintaining strong teeth.
Sensitivity Treatment: Tooth sensitivity can be discomforting, but BioMinF Toothpaste helps by sealing the exposed dentinal tubules from within, it effectively reduces sensitivity and promotes a pain free oral experience.
Reduced Fluoride Content: kids' toothpaste variant contains 40 to 60% less fluoride, with a concentration of 200-550 ppm making it safe and effective for kids.
Rapid Remineralization: This toothpaste promotes faster remineralization compared to other fluoridated toothpaste brands, ensuring strong and healthy teeth for your little ones.
Protection against Sugary Diets: BioMinF for Kids helps mitigate the impact of sugar and acid intake, and prevents dental problems.
Kid Friendly Mild Mint Taste: Children will love the delightful mild mint flavor, making brushing an enjoyable daily routine.
Gentle on Teeth and Gums: toothpaste is designed to be less abrasive, ensuring the protection of young teeth and gums.
Cost-Effective: BioMinF for Kids offers excellent value for money, ensuring affordability without compromising on quality.
