Allergies are incredibly common, and most people tend to think of allergies to food, animals, and outdoor environmental factors first.
What you might not know is that some people can actually be allergic to the fluoride found in toothpaste. When this allergy is present, you'll need to take extra steps to keep your teeth healthy.
If you have a fluoride allergy, you'll want to select a toothpaste that does not include this additive. Non-fluoridated toothpaste is available, and some people who don't have a fluoride allergy even prefer this option. Ensure that you are brushing at least twice per day.
Without the help of fluoride, you'll need to be especially concerned with how you'll keep your enamel strong. Avoid acidic foods and beverages so that the pH of your mouth stays more alkaline than acidic. This way, you can reduce the chances of enamel erosion.
Bacteria in the mouth are bad news when it comes to your teeth, as they produce acids that wear away at the enamel. To keep bacteria levels under control, sip on green tea or water, and rinse your mouth out frequently. Xylitol, which can be found in sugar-free gum, also has antibacterial properties that can keep your mouth clean and healthy.
A calcium and vitamin D supplement will also help to keep your teeth strong in the event of a fluoride allergy. If you don't feel that you get enough sun exposure or enough high-calcium foods in your diet, investing in a supplement from your local pharmacy may be a good idea.
If you have an allergy to fluoride, regular dental evaluations are especially important to keep your mouth healthy. Give us a call today to set up your next cleaning and screening appointment.
