Flouride or No Flouride: Our Experts Weigh In

When it comes to maintaining that pearly white, healthy smile, one of the most debated topics is the use of fluoride. You might be wondering if it’s a necessary ingredient for your dental health, or if you can go without it. That’s where we come in! 

Bella Pinkatz, DDS, and our dedicated team at Kew Gardens Dental P.C., in the Kew Gardens neighborhood in Queens, New York, specialize in everything from teeth whitening to the best oral cleaning solutions and much more. Our experts are here to weigh in on all things fluoride and its role in your oral hygiene. 

Let’s get started! 

The benefits of fluoride 

Fluoride has been hailed as a dental hero for decades, but is there any truth to back it up? Here’s what you need to know: 

Cavity prevention 

One of the leading reasons dental professionals advocate for the use of fluoride is that it can help strengthen your enamel, making it more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria and sugars in your mouth. Additionally, studies have shown that fluoride reduces the risk of cavities in both children and adults. 

Widespread use and endorsement

Major health organizations, including the American Dental Association (ADA) and the World Health Organization (WHO), endorse the use of fluoride in both water supplies and dental products.

The concerns about fluoride

Despite its benefits, some people still have reservations about fluoride. Here are the main concerns and the perspectives from our team of experts: 

Potential health risks 

Overexposure to fluoride during childhood can cause dental fluorosis, which leads to white spots or streaks on your teeth. However, this is usually mild and mostly a cosmetic issue. Additionally, some critics also claim that excessive fluoride consumption can be linked to health issues like thyroid dysfunction and bone fractures. 

Natural alternatives

If you’d rather opt for fluoride-free alternatives, you’re not alone. Many people prefer natural products, believing they are safer or more in line with a holistic health approach. Some experts may suggest that a healthy diet low in sugar, combined with good oral hygiene practices, can effectively prevent cavities without the need for fluoride. 

Expert recommendations 

So, now that you know a little more about the pros and cons of fluoride, what’s the next step? Remember, you don’t have to navigate this decision alone. That’s what we’re here for: 

Personalized advice 

Our team provides recommendations based on your specific dental health needs and risks. We assess your cavity risk and fluoride exposure to offer tailored advice. Plus, with professional fluoride treatments at our office, we can provide high-concentration fluoride that strengthens your teeth, especially if you’re at a higher risk of decay.

Educate yourself

Above all, we recommend staying informed about the benefits and risks of fluoride by reviewing credible sources and research studies. Understanding both sides of the debate and consulting with your team will help you make the balanced decision that’s right for you. 

In the end, while fluoride has proven benefits in preventing tooth decay and strengthening your enamel, it’s important to balance these benefits with potential risks. If you have any questions and want to learn more, call our office at 518-757-0854 or request an appointment online.