Fluoride is a mineral often found in toothpaste that helps to prevent cavities. This substance protects our teeth from erosion due to acid and bacterial plaque. Fluoride is also commonly found in mouthwashes as well as dental care gels or foams.

Fluoride works by strengthening enamel and tooth surfaces. However, fluoride can be harmful if ingested in excessive amounts. Let’s find out more.

The negative side effects of fluoride

Several studies suggest that too much fluoride can interfere with pregnancy. Fluoride can enter the bloodstream if ingested accidentally. 

According to research, the maximum level of fluoride acceptable to humans is 5 mg/kg body weight. 

• Research suggests that mothers who consume excessive amounts of fluoride during pregnancy can potentially give birth to children with symptoms of ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder).
• Environmental Health Perspective states that fluoride can cause children to have low IQ. Fluoride is a neurotoxic substance that can damage the brain’s performance even when the child is still a fetus in the womb.

Nausea

Nausea is a frequent problem during pregnancy. The taste of certain ingredients in toothpaste, such as fluoride, can worsen your nausea. 

You should be careful if you use toothpaste which contains fluoride during pregnancy and be sure to use it in appropriate amounts. 

The risk of fluorosis

It may sound counterintuitive, but too much fluoride can cause yellowing of your teeth, also known as fluorosis. This condition is not a disease, but it does affect appearance. Although fluoride has its benefits, using natural ingredients in toothpaste is better as it minimizes the side effects on the body, especially during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

You may be allergic

Unknowingly, some people may also have allergies to mineral substances such as fluoride. A study showed that 1% of 672 pregnant women develop atopic dermatitis and urticaria as an allergic reaction to consuming fluoride tablets.

Is it true that non-fluoride toothpaste is much safer?

For pregnant and nursing mothers, fluoride usage is discouraged because it can have an impact on the health of the baby. Fluoride-free toothpaste is a much safer, healthier and more beneficial choice because it removes any harmful side effects from fluoride.

Unfortunately, the ingredient list in toothpaste rarely displays how much fluoride is present in the product. In excessive amounts, fluoride is a substance that can endanger the health of users.

Some alternate natural substances that can replace the function of fluoride include:

• Calcium
• Miswak
• Green tea
• Chlorophyll

Miswak and calcium as a substitute for fluoride

In the example of miswak and calcium, both substances work together to strengthen teeth and are obtained from safe and natural ingredients. Even without fluoride in toothpaste, calcium will fulfil a person’s requirements to maintain healthy and strong teeth. Some kinds of toothpaste are already fortified with sufficiently high amounts of calcium to provide protection to the teeth and gums.

By replacing high fluoride levels with more calcium, fluoride-free toothpaste is sufficient to strengthen teeth in a safe, healthy and natural way. 

Other natural ingredients include green tea leaves and chlorophyll. In addition to strengthening the roots of teeth, these two substances can also prevent inflammation of the gums.

Non-fluoride toothpaste is healthier and safer

Fluoride-free toothpaste is much healthier and can be used for children and families. Plus, it works as effectively and helps yo take care of your teeth and gums from pregnancy to breastfeeding! 

Fluoride is only harmful when ingested in excessive amounts. But if you want a worry-free experience, do try out Mama’s Choice Non-Fluoride Toothpaste. Mama’s Choice Toothpaste comes with natural ingredients and minimizes the use of chemicals. We source quality natural ingredients such as miswak, mint leaves and chlorophyll which refresh and nourish the mouth. Mama’s Choice is here to help ensure that Mama’s journey is healthy and safe!

Mama's Choice Team

The Mama's Choice PH team is composed of three Mamas who are dedicated to spoiling their little ones with lots of cuddles, playtime and the occasional sweets, of course. <3