Daily Mail

Spike in Americans using toothpaste WITHOUT fluoride: Dentists urge people to stop 'ridiculous' trend as they warn 'brushing alone is note enough'

• Fluoride has been widespread in toothpaste and drinking water since the 1960s
• The chemical is thought to help fight cavity by bolstering tooth enamel 
• But some dentists and patients say the simple act of brushing is enough 
• A review of studies by the University of Washington suggests there is little proof that this is the case 
• Still, dentists remain divided and fluoride-free toothpaste companies are flourishing 

Dental health experts worry that more people are using toothpaste that skips the most important ingredient - fluoride - and leaves them at a greater risk of cavities.

Most toothpastes already contain fluoride, but in recent years, some dentists have suggested that the chemical may be superfluous and even harmful.

While health authorities recognize fluoride as a cavity blocker, the internet is dotted with claims, often from 'natural' toothpaste marketers and alternative medicine advocates, that fluoride-free toothpaste also prevents cavities.

Even dental health authorities can't agree about toothpaste and fluoride, but a recent review of past studies done by researchers at the University of Washington suggests that the simple act of brushing is not enough.........................