Why Go Flouride-Free

Why Go
Fluoride Free?

What is Flouride?

Fluoride is a common and naturally-abundant element. Fluoride’s long recognized anti-cavity mechanism is its ability to help repair tooth enamel that’s already been damaged.

The benefits of using fluoride should be considered in using it in conjunction with xylitol. Both approaches are very valuable, each offering its own set of advantages so that one can avail of two different mechanisms in winning the battle against tooth decay.

Many people opt for non-fluoride toothpastes like XYWHITE as a personal preference. There are also those who are advised to go fluoride-free for health reasons.

CHILDREN BELOW TWO

Children below the age of two should not be given fluoridated toothpastes because they still can’t be taught to spit it out. Even up to the age of six, many children find it difficult not to swallow – or some may choose to swallow because of the kid-friendly flavors.

A child can swallow too much fluoride which can lead to dental fluorosis, a condition that causes discoloration and white or brown spots even on their permanent teeth. Although this does not affect the health of the teeth, the discoloration will be noticeable.

XYWHITE has a sister line of fluoride-free oral care products for babies and little children called SansFluo.

PREGNANT WOMEN

If children below two shouldn’t ingest fluoride, unborn babies shouldn’t be exposed to it at all. In 2017, a report was published suggesting that exposure to fluoride before birth could lead to poorer cognitive outcomes in the future.

In addition, a 2010 study points out how fluoride intake may also affect the health of the mother-to-be. It notes how high levels of fluoride may decrease and inhibit nutrients necessary in achieving a healthy pregnancy. The possible outcomes are low birth weights and premature births.

NEW MOTHERS

Studies show that Streptococcus mutans, a type of decay-causing bacteria, can be passed on from mothers to their newborn children through direct contact or breastfeeding. Even at a very early age, the growth of these bad bacteria could be triggerred in the child’s mouth. Regular use of Xylitol by mothers has been demonstrated to significantly reduce this bacterial transmission, resulting in fewer cavities for the child.

PEOPLE WITH KIDNEY PROBLEMS

The kidney is responsible for excreting fluoride that a person may have ingested. This prevents the negative effects that one may experience due to the buildup of fluoride inside the body. People with kidney problems are advised to stay away from fluoride because of this. Due to their impaired kidney functions, they are prone to collecting high levels of fluoride in the body. This may cause not just dental fluorosis but also skeletal fluorosis which leads to painful damage to bones and joints. A study in the U.S. confirms that people with kidney problems have a higher risk of developing crippling skeletal fluorosis.

Fluoride is present not just in dental products but in other everyday commodities as well such as processed food and beverages. For people with kidney issues, every fluoride-free alternative out there helps (toothpaste, beverages, etc.).

ALLERGY TO FLUORIDE

Xylitol is an important oral care option for those allergic to fluoride and are in need of a fluoride-free lifestyle. It allows for proper oral hygiene without the use of fluoride.

Wondering if you might be allergic to fluoride? Watch out for the common symptoms such as skin rashes, mouth sores, upset stomach, headache, joint pain, weakness, tiredness and eyesight disruptions. If you are experiencing these symptoms after exposure to fluoride, cutting down on it is suggested. Observe if the symptoms will disappear. If they do, that may be a sign that you are allergic to fluoride. In dealing with this, be sure to consult professionals as well.

PLAYING IT SAFE

Fluoride is one of the most hotly debated topics amongst experts in the fields of health and medicine. On one side there is a group advocating the good effects of fluoride such as the prevention of dental cavities. On another side is another group raising awareness concerning the possible long-term and negative effects of fluoride. Because of this, many people are now searching for alternatives to fluoride-based toothpastes. For those aiming to play it safe by opting for xylitol for oral health care, there’s XYWHITE.

Why Go Fluoride Free?