Ditching fluoride: A resolution for the new year

After reading extensively about the dangers of fluoride in water and toothpaste, I pledged to ditch fluoride for good this year. It took some convincing to get Alex to agree as he has been suffering from several cavities and other dental issues recently. Since making the switch to non-fluoridated toothpaste and mouthwash we both noticed a positive difference and after his last dental visit he was told his teeth are stronger.

Remember as a kid having "fun flavored" toothpastes and your parents telling you not to swallow any? Of course we swallowed some on purpose! How can any kid resist sneakily eating bubble gum or blueberry flavored toothpaste?!

If only we had known back then what is becoming abundantly clear now about toothpastes that contain fluoride... This article from Natural News really lays out the reasons why fluoride is dangerous, particularly so in the early developmental stages for babies and infants. Still not convinced? Cheeseslave closes the case by presenting the Top 10 dangers of fluoride.

Now we really don't want any fluoride-based products for our babies, do we? Especially not toothpaste. We did our homework and came up with two healthier and more natural alternatives for you green moms and dads:

• Weleda's Natural Children's Tooth Gel. It's all natural and made with organic calendula flower extract to soothe your baby's gums while gently cleansing his or her pearly teeth. It is free of synthetic preservatives and artificial flavoring. And of course: no fluoride! Check it out.

• Logodent's Organic Kids Dental Gel. It's organic and contains extracts of echinacea and green tea to ensure effective oral care. It also has chamomile and myrrh to protect your baby's gums. And of course, no artificial coloring nor animal testing. Two aromas available: Strawberry and Spearmint.

In a nutshell: fluoride is bad and we're ditching it. How about you? How do you feel about it?