In recent years, concerns about the potential health risks associated with fluoride in toothpaste have been on the rise. This article aims to shed light on the dangers of fluoride and reveal which popular toothpaste brands may contain this controversial ingredient. Additionally, we will explore how easy it is to make your own toothpaste using natural ingredients, emphasizing the health benefits of such alternatives.
The Controversy Surrounding Fluoride:
Fluoride has long been praised for its role in preventing tooth decay and strengthening enamel. However, an increasing body of research has raised questions about its safety, with some studies suggesting potential links to adverse health effects including softer/weaker teeth, arthritis, bone damage, osteoporosis, muscle damage, sleep disturbance (FL is known to calcify the pineal gland which is the main producer of melatonin) and chronic illness such as heart disease, thyroid disease (particularly hypothyroidism), diabetes, obesity and cancer.
Considering the main source of fluoride exposure is daily use of toothpaste – the question emerges: Is fluoridated toothpaste safe?
Many mainstream toothpaste brands contain fluoride as a key ingredient. Brands such as Crest, Colgate, and Aquafresh commonly include fluoride in their formulations. If you are curious about your toothpaste, simply look to the ingredients and if you see “Sodium Fluoride” and its % dosage are listed (usually 0.15%, it can also be listed in ppm (parts per million) sometimes as high as 1,500ppm.
The Main Concern With Fluoride:
Fluoride is a halogen in the same category as chlorine and bromine and is known to negatively affect three primary organic systems:
Thyroid: Fluoride has been associated with decreasing thyroid hormone productivity as it competes with iodine. As iodine is needed to produce thyroid hormone, if the thyroid peroxidase enzyme grabs fluorine instead of iodine, the body produces a toxic fluoridated thyroid hormone – which signals the body to react in a method like hypothyroidism (fatigue, joint pain, brain fog, etc)
Skeletal Bone Weakness (Osteopenia/Osteoporosis): Prolonged exposure to high levels of fluoride has been linked to skeletal problems. Excessive fluoride intake may contribute to a condition known as skeletal fluorosis – which includes symptoms of joint pain, stiffness, limited mobility eventually leading to arthritic changes of the joint (ligamentous calcification, bone spurs) and can even induce bone loss (osteoporosis) which increases risk for fracture.
Sleep Cycle Disruption: Fluoride exposure has been linked to an increase likelihood of a condition known as Pineal gland calcification (PGC). This occurs when fluoride accumulates within the pineal gland which leads to calcium collection within the gland itself. As the pineal gland produces melatonin (along with a host of other hormones) disturbance in the gland can decrease secretion of this needed sleep hormone. Symptoms include insomnia, disturbed sleep patterns and headaches.
Given the dangers of consistent exposure to fluoride, once can hopefully see nothing but advantages of removing exposure to fluoride – including your toothpaste. If you are concerned about increased dental cavities by stopping the use of fluoridated toothpaste, consider the 2020 New York Times article which highlighted that long term use of fluoridated toothpaste resulted in demineralization and weakening of the tooth enamel – thus increasing risk for dental cavities!
Below you will see a DIY all-natural toothpaste that is not only easy to make but also naturally whitening. Benefits of the ingredients hopefully will encourage you to ditch your “chemical, drug laden toothpaste.”
Coconut Oil: Known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, coconut oil can help combat harmful bacteria in the mouth.
Baking Soda: Gently polishes teeth, removes stains, and neutralizes acids.
Activated Charcoal: A natural whitening agent and oral detox product.
Peppermint Essential Oil: Provides a refreshing flavor and has antimicrobial properties.
Himalayan Salt: Contains minerals that can contribute to a healthier oral environment.
For an amazing DIY home toothpaste recipe that works better than OTC conventional toothpaste and also has natural whitening power – CLICK HERE