Fluoride vs. Fluoride-free Toothpaste

By Davina C.

The myths surrounding fluoride in oral care continue to loom and provoke debate with so much misinformation about the advantages and disadvantages of both.

In 1950, the American Dental Association backed fluoride (a natural mineral) as 'safe, effective, and necessary in preventing tooth decay.' By strengthening enamel and slowing its breakdown, fluoride limits the ability for plaque and bacteria to go to work on your teeth. Later researchers experimented by adding fluoride to drinking water and noticed the rate of tooth decay in children dropped by 60%.

Fluoride works because as bacteria and sugar form acids that slowly lead to decay, fluoride works to strengthen the enamel, the protective surface around all your teeth so they don't succumb to tooth decay or even gum disease. Whilst there is no dental research to suggest fluoride can cause any long-term damage, oral care experts, though, have long known that fluoride can cause children's adult teeth to suffer stains and discolouring.

In response, fluoride-free, natural toothpastes have been formulated for both adults and children.

So which one should you choose?

The answer is a lot to do with your age. Children younger than two years old, for example, shouldn't use more toothpaste than a grain of rice, in case they ingest it. Also research has proven, that for children, using too much fluoride for a developing tooth can cause fluorosis, which means white or dark spots on the teeth.

Other reasons to go fluoride-free include the fact that fluoride is actually present in food and water so some may feel using a fluoride toothpaste is too much. Whilst contrary to popular belief; for adults and children, it is not essential to use fluoride for whitening or teeth cleaning.  Likewise, there are mouthwashes that come fluoride or fluoride-free: a fluoride mouthwash works by protecting your teeth from acids produced by the bacterial plaque, whilst the non-fluoride mouthwashes provide breath freshening ingredients and some might have anti-cavity benefits.

So there are advantages to both fluoride and fluoride-free toothpaste and mouthwashes: JASON has been formulating natural products that support both aesthetic and inner wellbeing for the whole family, since 1959.

Here are some of our favourite JASON oral care products for adults and young kids:

Fluoride-Free: Simply Coconut Strengthening Toothpaste - Coconut Mint

Fluoride-free, Simply Coconut Strengthening Toothpaste is filled with a unique combination of soothing virgin coconut oil, as well as magnesium, calcium and peppermint oil. Other teeth brightening and invigorating extracts include spearmint, chamomile, aloe vera juice and witch hazel water. Suitable for adults and children aged two onwards.

Shop it: Simply Coconut Strengthening Toothpaste, Coconut Mint (Fluoride-Free)

With Fluoride: Sea Fresh Anti Cavity & Strengthening Gel - Deep Sea Spearmint

Sea Fresh Anti Cavity & Strengthening Gel is ALL NATURAL. Featuring extracts of blue green algae, potent spearmint and parsley, rich in calcium, proteins and antioxidants to naturally strengthen teeth and gums. Other ingredients include a blend of bamboo powder, calcium carbonate and silica to whiten teeth and smoothen, whilst controlling tartar. All in a powerful spearmint taste. Suitable for all but children under aged two should first consult with a dentist before use.

Shop it: Sea Fresh Anti Cavity & Strengthening Gel (Contains Fluoride)

Fluoride-Free: Kids Only Strawberry Toothpaste

Easy to use, delicious strawberry flavoured toothpaste. Make teeth brushing time fun for the kids whilst ensuring their teeth and gums stay healthy for the future. Formulated mainly from Calcium Carbonate with other ingredients such as Xylitol for whitening effect. Supervise young children when brushing to ensure they only use a pea-sized amount and avoid swallowing.

Shop it: Kids Only Strawberry Toothpaste (Fluoride-Free)