Within pediatric dentistry, fluoride has been pushed in for years. Due to the potential negative system effects of fluoride, especially in children, Dr. Herod challenges this narrative and provides safe and effective alternatives, using fluoride-free treatment and recommendations. He believes that with a healthy, whole food diet with proper parent and patient education, the risk of decay can be reduced or eliminated naturally.
Fluoride is not essential for growth and development and is listed by the FDA as a drug and not a nutrient. Due to the growing number of commercial exposures to fluoride, dental fluorosis, the first visual sign of excess fluoride consumption, is on the rise. Today, at least 40% of children ages 12-15 years show signs of dental fluorosis.
The body’s natural immune system is designed to prevent tooth decay without the use of fluoride. Dr. Herod provides other alternatives like hydroxyapatite to reverse tooth decay. Hydroxyapatite is a form of calcium that makes up 97% of tooth enamel and 70% of dentin. This nutrient is what makes the tooth hard and strong and a way to prevent or reverse tooth decay.
Dr. Herod also has a strong position on the use of dental sealants in pediatric dentistry. Traditionally, these are NOT fluoride-free and are placed on nearly every child that enters a dental office when their molars first erupt. Needing to be completed in total isolation of moisture, these sealants can be very challenging to complete effectively. Dr. Herod believes that the body is naturally designed to prevent tooth decay and that sealants should only be placed in very specific situations, particularly when the anatomy of the tooth or oral hygiene promote their use. When recommended, Dr. Herod takes great care in how these are placed, just as he would for a permanent filling. He uses only biocompatible materials that are fluoride-free.
In Virginia, especially in children, we are observing an increasing influence on fluoride-free dentistry from various organizations such as the International Academy of Oral and Medical Toxicology (IAOMT) and the International Academy of Biological Dentistry and Medicine (IABDM). Dr. Herod proudly supports these organizations in their pursuit for health optimization and safety.
Partner with our team to learn how to improve your oral and overall health using fluoride free dentistry in children.
