Fluoride has been a trusted part of our dental routine for years. It’s in most toothpastes, and we’ve all heard how it helps protect our teeth from decay. But as we learn more about dental health, we’re starting to understand that fluoride may not be the only answer—and can come with a few side effects.
So, let’s explore what this means and look at some other alternatives for taking care of our teeth:
Fluoride: How it Works
Fluoride has been proven to protect your teeth by strengthening your enamel—the outer layer of your teeth that acts as a shield against decay. The bacteria in your mouth feed on sugars from the foods you eat, producing acids that can wear down your enamel and cause cavities. When fluoride is present, it gets absorbed by the enamel and helps repair the damage by adding minerals back to the surface. This process is called remineralisation. Essentially, fluoride makes your teeth more resistant to these acid attacks, which is why it has been so widely used in dental care.
Many people rely on fluoride for this reason. However, more recent studies are now showing that high amounts of fluoride may lead to side serious effects and this has created conversations around how often we should be using it.
If you’re curious about alternatives, there are some great options that can help protect your teeth without using as much fluoride—or even none at all.
Alternatives to Fluoride: BioMin and MinaMin C Toothpastes
One option we’re excited about at the Family Dental Clinic is BioMin toothpaste. It has less fluoride than your usual toothpaste and also contains calcium, which helps rebuild enamel in a natural way. If you’re looking to skip fluoride entirely, MinaMin C is a fluoride-free option. Both BioMin and MinaMin C are available at our dental practice, and they’re part of our AirFlow protocol, which is a gentle, thorough way to clean and protect your teeth.
The Bigger Issue: Sugar and Tooth Decay
While fluoride and other alternative solutions can help, the real culprit behind tooth decay is sugar. These days, sugar is hidden in so many of the foods we eat, and frequent snacking means our teeth are constantly being exposed to it. So, cutting back on sugar and being mindful of how often you snack can go a long way in protecting your teeth. In fact, limiting sugar might be the most important step you can take for your dental health!
If you have any questions about your dental care routine, or want to learn more about our AirFlow technology, click here or call our Chichester dental clinic today on 01243 771171 to book a routine appointment.