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Choosing a Toothpaste: What’s the Big Deal?

Course Number: 565

Choosing a Fluoride-free Dentifrice: Why?

In recent years a niche segment of dentifrices that do not contain fluoride has emerged (e.g., Tom’s of Maine®, Hello®, Burts Bees®). Those using these products may have an interest in “natural” personal care products and perceive fluoride to be an unnatural chemical, and/or have a concern about the safety of fluoride.49 A large body of research has concluded that fluoride – which is naturally found in most large bodies of water – is safe at the appropriate concentrations that aid in caries prevention.45 The ADA only provides its seal of acceptance to toothpastes containing fluoride, based on its demonstrated anti-caries effectiveness.50