Is it safe to have fluoride in toothpaste?

Tej Katpitia Jan 5 2018,
Oral health is a reflection of a healthy body. It is important to consume the right food and use safe products to ensure good oral health. The use of silver diamine fluoride has been frequently questioned for its side-effects. Although it is a naturally occurring mineral used in toothpastes to resolve dental problems, is it really worth it?

Decades ago, it was found that children, who grew up in regions with high concentrations of naturally occurring fluoride in water, had less tooth decay compared to those in other regions. Gradually, fluoride was added to water and people saw depletion of dental illnesses. But a few years down the line, it was found that fluoride is a neurotoxin that affects the nervous tissue.

Though it is still believed that addition of fluoride in toothpastes and water is beneficial for dental hygiene, it is critical to spread awareness for its possible side-effects. Even a tiny amount of toothpaste is hazardous to health when consumed on a regular basis and may cause diseases like skeletol fuorisis and osteosarcoma.

While it is important to consume a nutrient-rich diet to keep your pearly whites healthy, switching to non-fluoride toothpaste is equally vital. Brands have used relevant herbs substituting chemical agents, to provide naturally infused, healthier and safer alternatives.

A combination of herbs like clove, cinnamon, pepper and many others could be a power-packed answer to holistic dental care.

(The author is CEO, Sri Sri Tattva)