Is fluoride absolutely necessary to prevent cavities?
DENTIST'S ADVICE

Is fluoride absolutely necessary to prevent cavities?

Published on April 30, 2025

Fluoride has long been touted as an essential element for dental health. But is it really necessary to use it systematically to prevent cavities? Today, new alternatives are emerging that are gentler and respect oral health. Here's a closer look.

Fluoride and Cavity Prevention: What We Really Know

Since the 50s, fluoride has been included in most toothpastes for its enamel-strengthening action and its ability to reduce the risk of cavities.

Its effectiveness is no longer in doubt, but its use also raises some questions, particularly in the event of overdose: fluorosis, imbalances in the oral microbiota, dental sensitivities, etc.

Today, faced with these limitations, more and more brands are rethinking dental protection by relying on other natural and biomimetic active ingredients.

Hydroxyapatite: a natural and promising alternative to fluoride

A natural component of tooth enamel,hydroxyapatite is now establishing itself as one of the most serious alternatives to fluoride.

Its benefits:

  • ELLE fills micro-cracks enamel,
  • Lisse the surface of the teeth,
  • Strengthens the natural barrier against acid attacks,
  • And above all, she fully respects the oral microbiota.

Some new generation toothpastes rely on this mineral to remineralize teeth, without compromising oral health.

An example? The toothpastes from The Smilist : clean formulas enriched with hydroxyapatite and prebiotics, which combine care, protection and respect for the microbiota.

The role of the oral microbiota: a key lever for preventing cavities naturally

Taking care of your oral microbiota is just as essential as protecting your enamel.

A balanced microbiota naturally regulates cavity-causing bacteria, strengthens local immune defenses and maintains a healthy pH in the mouth.

Specific treatments exist to support this beneficial flora, notably through innovative textures such as Micro-Essence Whitening Anti-Plaque from The Smilist, enriched with natural enzymes.

Using this type of treatment after brushing can strengthen protection against dental plaque without attacking oral tissues or destroying the oral microbiota.

Building an Effective Dental Routine Without Fluoride: It's Possible

To prevent cavities without fluoride, simply implement a gentle, consistent, and comprehensive routine:

  • Un remineralizing toothpaste, to strengthen enamel on a daily basis,
  • Un anti-plaque treatment, to maintain the microbiota,
  • Un night serum to smooth enamel and fade stains without sensitivity.

We recommend the Healthy Whitening Kit from The Smilist, more than 50 satisfied customers! 

More and more consumers who are sensitive to clean beauty are adapting their oral hygiene routine around these alternatives, thus combining effectiveness and respect for their overall health.

Adopting a natural approach also means choosing to protect your smile in the long term, while promoting balance and gentleness. 🌿

In short

No, fluoride isn't essential for preventing cavities. With biomimetic actives like hydroxyapatite, gentle formulas enriched with prebiotics, and careful attention to the microbiota, it's entirely possible to maintain optimal oral health, naturally.

Getting informed, choosing respectful products, and taking care of your smile then becomes an action that is as obvious as it is a pleasure.

Christiane, dentist and co-founder of The Smilist