‘No fluoride for me thanks’: a brief guide to holistic dentistry

 Asha Pandya-Sharpe discusses holistic dentistry, what it involves and what conventional dentists should be aware of.

It is not entirely uncommon to stumble across a patient who refuses to use fluoridated toothpastes.

The use of fluoride has for years been considered to be the holy grail of dentistry, having played the most pivotal role in reducing caries rates (Kanduti, Sterbenk and Artnik, 2016).

It is our job as dentists to promote the best oral health and hygiene practices for our patients. So an adamant rejection of fluoride is frustrating.

A conversation that initially starts as routine oral hygiene instruction fast becomes a ‘debate’. These anti-fluoride views often belong to those with an interest in holistic dentistry.

When taught ..............................