Fluoride

A while back a I received a question about the fluoride content of toothpaste. As a doctor and a consumer, my first concern is the safety of the product in question. When choosing toothpaste, I usually go with a fluoride-free version.

Why fluoride-free?

Research shows that fluoride strengthens the tooth enamel and helps to prevent dental cavities. However, in comparison to the health risks fluoride poses in all other areas of the body, cavity prevention is a minor benefit. Cavities are caused by sugar ingestion, which softens the enamel and allows for greater bacterial invasion into the tooth. Cavity prevention strategies should take dietary choices and mouth milieu into account. In other words, cavities are not a result of a fluoride deficiency in the body, but of a high-sugar diet and a loss of protective bacteria in the mouth.

Wholism is one of the basic principles of naturopathic medicine. If I examined the effects of fluoride on the tooth, and overlooked all the other body parts, I may agree with proponents of water fluoridation. However, when we examine the research on the effects of fluoride on the whole body, fluoridation looks risky. Fluoride has many adverse effects on the body including lower thyroid function and increased risk of bone fractures.

What should you do?

• Because some people never develop cavities, while others find themselves regularly in the dentist's chair, talk to your wholistic dentist about the best toothpaste choice for you.
• Familiarize yourselves with information for and against the use of fluoride (see links below).

More resources on fluoride:

The Fluoride Deception

FluorideAlert.org

American Dental Association

• Brush and floss your teeth regularly, after every meal and before bed.
• Eat a whole foods diet; eliminate sugar, juice, and soft drinks.