One of the key procedures that are important in terms of maintaining oral hygiene is brushing your teeth. To ensure the maximum effect, dentists recommend using professionally certified products, which include trace elements and substances that protect the enamel from caries. When choosing the appropriate option, corresponding to both the current state and the body’s individual characteristics, a prerequisite is the consultation with the treating specialist. However, some common questions can be answered right now. Is it possible to use toothpaste with fluorine compounds, is it harmful or beneficial, and what does sodium fluoride provide in terms of maintaining the health of the elements of the jaw region?
General view
The first cases of using the substance in question in dental procedures date back to the beginning of the last century. Already in 1914, American scientists published the results of studies confirming the positive effect of the systematic use of hygiene products, the composition of which was supplemented with a strengthening element. Among the improvements, first of all, there was a decrease in the rate of destruction of units (up to 45%), as well as an increase in the strength and resistance of the enamel coating to the negative effects of an acidic environment.
Today, the question of how strong the harm of fluorine (sodium fluoride) contained in toothpaste can be for a person has been studied in as much detail as possible. It is no secret that this particular element ensures the maintenance of an optimal structure, promotes the correct development of the skeleton in childhood, helps to remove heavy metals in metabolic processes, and also absorbs iron, which is necessary for the full functioning of the immune system.
Abnormal deficiency affects the condition of bones and teeth, including – determining the degree of vulnerability of the enamel to bacteria that provoke the development of caries. At the same time, to satisfy the daily requirement, the systematic use of special means is not at all required – it is enough to include in the daily diet products characterized by a high content of this substance: apples, nuts, milk, meat, buckwheat, honey, and so on. Proper nutrition and drinking – both water and tea – help to ensure the minimum necessary supply. But why then do we need fluoride in toothpaste, how much should it be and what benefit or harm does it bring to the body from the point of view of medicine? As a rule, the recommendation for the use of such formulations is based on indications of the clinical picture, indicating potential,
Range of problems to be solved
Speaking about the functional tasks identified by experts advising hygiene products of the category in question, the following aspects are distinguished first of all:
- Reducing the likelihood of developing caries. Sodium fluoride, contained in toothpaste, prevents bacteria from having a destructive effect on the enamel coating of the elements of the series. The systematic use of the recommended formulations helps to minimize the risk of caries formation, potentially threatening oral health.
- remineralization effect. The presence of the active component contributes to the restoration of enamel that is in a weakened or worn state against the background of previous diseases or other factors, both external and internal. The teeth become stronger, which allows the patient not to experience constant inconvenience in everyday life.
- Decreased sensitivity. The presence of damage, as well as the insufficient thickness of the natural protective coating caused by congenital anomalies, exacerbate the susceptibility of the jaw to temperature and acid changes. Cold, hot, sweet, or sour foods will no longer cause characteristic discomfort and provoke painful sensations.
- Strengthening the enamel layer. During a period of intensive growth, it is important to ensure conditions that exclude damage to vulnerable units. Speaking about why fluoride is needed in toothpaste for children, many experts point to an increase in the strength of enamel and the creation of reliable protection against pathogenic microbes and bacteria that can provoke dental diseases.
- Getting rid of bad odor. Regular hygienic care helps to eliminate halitosis caused by the active reproduction of microorganisms in a humid environment. Fluoride helps to neutralize such processes and, as a result, provides an improvement in the general condition.
Numerous scientific studies on whether fluoride in toothpaste is harmful or beneficial and whether systematic care using such products is dangerous for human health have confirmed that with proper and moderate use, the result is extremely positive. The main thing is not to overdo it, and also choose the compositions that correspond to individual indications. By signing up for a consultation at the Dentika dental center, you will receive recommendations from qualified doctors with extensive practical experience who will help you find the best solution for each situation.
Advantages of fluoride pastes
One of the main factors determining the demand for hygiene products in this category is assistance in preventing caries, the most common pathology of the jaw region. Fluoride reduces the amount of acid produced by bacteria, which can destroy the enamel coating. The substance creates the effect of antiseptic treatment and stimulates the natural remineralization cycle, helping to produce more saliva. Thus, the likelihood of soft plaque turning into stone is reduced, the quality of cleaning hard-to-reach areas is improved, and the metabolism is improved, which is necessary for the overall strengthening of the immune system.
Disadvantages of fluoride pastes
Before making a purchase decision, consider the following factors.
Firstly, the daily norm of a microelement, sufficient to meet the needs of the body, does not exceed three milligrams. To replenish it, two liters of plain water or the presence of ordinary products in the diet – milk, meat, fruits, and so on will be enough.
Secondly, excessive consumption of fluoride leads to its accumulation, and excessive consumption leads to a toxic reaction. The excess that occurs in the tissues causes the development of fluorosis. This is a pathological condition, the characteristic symptoms of which are unnaturally white spots on the enamel, which eventually corrode its structure and acquire a yellow tint. The disease requires prompt medical intervention, identifying the primary source of the problem, and undergoing a course of remineralization, including with the help of applications and photophoresis.
In order not to harm the body, it is recommended to consult with your doctor in advance, who will tell you whether fluoride in the toothpaste will be harmful in the current state of the oral cavity.
Indications for use
Among the factors that determine the appropriateness of choosing in favor of fluorinated compounds include:
- Presence of symptoms of demineralization.
- Enamel susceptibility to acid attack.
- Vulnerability to mechanical stress.
- Identification of primary carious signs.
The activity of fluorine contributes to the creation of a protective layer of small thickness, the need to overcome which significantly reduces the degree of influence of bacteria. Slowing down the reproduction of microbes prevents the further spread of caries, and also prevents the development of inflammatory processes in the gum tissues.
Criteria of choice
Modern manufacturers offer various types of fluoride-containing pastes in both budget and premium formats. When choosing the appropriate option, you should be guided by the recommendations of the dentist, as well as focus on the following indicators:
- Compound. The list of components used determines compliance with the individual characteristics of the organism. The safest is tin fluoride, recommended for both treatment and prevention of oral pathologies.
- Concentration. For young children (up to four years of age), it is recommended to use products with a substance content not exceeding 200 ppm. From five to eight, options of 300-500 ppm are suitable, after that, it is allowed to brush your teeth with a paste with an indicator of 800-1400 ppm.
Auxiliary elements. Standard practice is to supplement the composition with a variety of plant extracts that help eliminate pathogenic microbes and maintain fresh breath. - Manufacturer. It is possible and necessary to focus on brands when choosing dental products since large companies rely on the results of their own laboratory research and publish information about the features of the products offered in the public domain.
- Price. An equally important criterion, especially given the current exchange rates. Too low a price is a reason to think about quality and reliability, so it is better to be guided by a list of recommended brands that guarantee not only the safety of use but also the achievement of the desired result.
Another aspect that is more relevant for children is taste characteristics. Too harsh a taste can discourage a child from performing hygiene procedures, so you should take care to create comfortable conditions that cause a positive reaction.
Paste with fluoride at an early age: harmful or not
The growing organism as a whole is more susceptible to external influences and rather sensitively reacts to excess fluoride. If you choose the wrong product that has an excessive concentration of a substance, there is a high probability of developing fluorosis, the treatment of which will require additional effort and money. To avoid such consequences, it is recommended not only to competently and regularly care for the condition of the oral cavity, but also to periodically visit the specialists of Dentika dental centers – to undergo an examination and general diagnostics, learn brushing techniques, and also receive basic tips that will help maintain health and the beauty of a child’s smile.
Consequences of an excess of fluoride in the body
Any deviation from the natural balance entails changes that most often have a negative specificity. The use of fluorides, which in their structure are compounds of a toxic element and a component that promotes the release of ions, should be moderate and correct. Excessive concentration resulting from active accumulation leads to a number of problems:
- Violation of the metabolic cycle.
- Decreased strength of teeth and bones.
- The development of pathologies of the kidneys and liver.
- Weakened immunity against the background of pathological processes.
The systematic use of products with high content, without the presence of a real need, usually allows you to quickly understand what fluoride in toothpaste is – good or bad – if used incorrectly. Damaged enamel with spots formed on it, the fragility of the coating, and aggravated tooth sensitivity are factors that require urgent diagnosis and a decision on complex treatment and restoration.
Which option is better – with or without fluoride
From the point of view of color and taste characteristics, the differences are not fundamental – a wide variety of types are on sale, both with a whitening effect and with various additives to improve the smell. The key difference criterion is the content of fluorine compounds, the concentration of which is mandatorily indicated on the packaging.
Recommendations for use, as a rule, are determined by age gradation, as well as the characteristics of the region of residence. For residents of areas in which the water supply is characterized by an increased presence of the substance in question, it is worth making a choice in favor of conventional pastes – in order to avoid excessive accumulation leading to the development of pathologies. You can clarify the relevant information about the composition of water both from the dentist and, upon request, to the regulatory authorities.
How to strengthen teeth without harm to health
The purpose of regular hygiene care is to prevent the development of caries, the source of which is bacteria and microbes. To strengthen the elements of dentition, various means and techniques are used that have a positive effect on the structure of the enamel and contribute to the restoration of protective properties. Recommendations for each individual case may differ – depending on the clinical indications – but in general, the procedures that act as an alternative, include the following.
Fluoridation
A strengthening method involving the application of a special composition with a high concentration of fluorine to the surface of the teeth. It is carried out in clinical and at-home conditions – with the help of universal elastic caps, the internal cavity of which is filled with the selected agent. Requires caution and strict adherence to instructions.
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Professional cleaning
Self-care does not allow high-quality processing of hard-to-reach areas of the jaw row, which causes a gradual accumulation of plaque and the formation of tartar. In this regard, it is recommended to undergo a complex dental treatment at least once every six months – using ultrasound and professional equipment.
Compliance with oral hygiene
Everyday use of brushes and pastes, threads and rinses is a standard that is relevant regardless of the age and condition of the teeth. Brushing should be done at least twice a day, and ideally after every meal. However, it is important not to overdo it – an excessively intense mechanical effect on the gums and enamel can lead to the formation of local lesions vulnerable to pathogenic bacteria.
Proper Diet
The predominance of solid foods containing a sufficient amount of the necessary vitamins and minerals is another factor contributing to the preservation of an attractive and healthy smile for many years.
Summarize
So, now you know what fluoride is in toothpaste, whether it is harmful or not, and in what cases dentists advise choosing products with a high content of this component. An attentive attitude to one’s own health, as well as timely visits to the doctor for examination and consultation, are a guarantee of achieving and maintaining the desired result.