Fluoride In Toothpaste: Essential Or Overrated?

I used to just grab whatever toothpaste was cheapest too, but after getting braces last year, my orthodontist stressed fluoride toothpaste big-time. At first, I thought it was just standard dentist talk, but honestly, I've noticed a difference—less sensitivity and fewer cavities popping up. Could be coincidence, sure, but personally, I'm sticking with fluoride for now. Guess it depends on your teeth and habits though...

"At first, I thought it was just standard dentist talk, but honestly, I've noticed a difference—less sensitivity and fewer cavities popping up."

Same here. I used to think fluoride was just marketing hype until I switched to a non-fluoride toothpaste for a bit (trying to go "natural")... ended up with two cavities and sensitive teeth. Switched back pretty fast, lol.

Haha, I feel you on the "natural" toothpaste experiment—I tried one of those charcoal toothpastes once and ended up with gray gums for a week. Not my best look. Fluoride definitely seems to help me too, especially with sensitivity after braces. Wonder if anyone's had luck with other sensitivity remedies besides fluoride though...

Haha, charcoal toothpaste...been there, done that, never again. Looked like I'd been chewing on pencils.

Anyway, fluoride's always been my go-to for sensitivity too, especially after a dentist told me it helps rebuild enamel or something. I tried switching to a fluoride-free brand once—felt like my teeth were suddenly made of glass. Not fun. But I have heard some people swear by potassium nitrate toothpaste for sensitivity issues. Haven't tried it myself yet, but might be worth looking into if fluoride isn't cutting it for you.

Honestly though, I think fluoride's less about hype and more about what your teeth actually need. If you're cavity-prone or sensitive like me, probably best to stick with it. If not...well, lucky you, haha.