Why is Theodent the No. 1 alternative to fluoride?

Penicillin. X-rays. Insulin. Many of our most important medical applications since the late 19th century were not planned goals. They were detours. Before Theodent introduced a new class of luxury toothpaste, it was a detour too. Theodent toothpastes continue a distinguished line of “accidental” discoveries that have catapulted science significantly forward.

The role Theodent has played in overturning traditional views on fluoride cannot be overstated. To understand why, we first need to understand why something as routine as brushing your teeth matters at all.

From an early age, we are told that brushing our teeth is important. It gives us a clean mouth, nice teeth and fresh breath. Less often, however, do we hear how essential it is for the rest of our body.

Just as it takes in the food we eat and the air we breathe, our mouth is also a gateway for harmful bacteria and infections that can lead to complications in our bones, heart, kidneys and other organs. Dental hygiene is therefore the first line of defence, because problems such as tooth decay and gum disease weaken our ability to fight off intruders at the source.

More than 100 years ago, scientists discovered that fluoride helps prevent tooth decay. In the 1950s, fluoride-based toothpastes began to be mass-produced. Since then, these products have been considered the standard and make up the vast majority of toothpaste sales worldwide.

Specifically, studies have shown that fluoride is a neurotoxic substance. Even low levels of ingestion are toxic to the body. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires fluoride toothpaste to carry a warning that Poison Control should be contacted if more than the recommended amount is swallowed.

Research has linked fluoride to conditions such as:

• lower IQ in children
• fluoride-induced calcification or hardening of the pineal gland
• dental fluorosis (tooth discolouration)
• thyroid disease
• skeletal fluorosis (bone disease)

For decades, dental professionals maintained that fluoride was the only chemical capable of preventing tooth decay. That changed in the early 1990s thanks to an accidental discovery that led not only to an alternative, but to one that is completely safe.

Scientists found that a molecule called theobromine enlarges the crystalline structure of the enamel in our teeth. What is more, theobromine – which is readily found in cocoa, among other things – strengthens this structure far better than fluoride. It creates larger and stronger crystals that better protect enamel and dentin, improve remineralisation and eliminate hypersensitivity.

Years of research and development followed. The team isolated theobromine from cocoa, leaving out the harmful fats and sugars found in processed chocolate. They then combined this active ingredient with calcium and phosphate into a patented formula. The launch of “Rennou”, as it was named, marked an unprecedented moment in the history of dental health.

Dental disease is one of the most common human health problems. It is also one of the most preventable. Thanks to scientific discoveries, we are learning that standard oral treatments – fluoride, for example – are no longer the best choice. Instead, Theodent offers solutions that are safer, deliver better results and meet the demands of a smarter market.

Theodent is now sold worldwide to discerning consumers who seek sophisticated products that support their overall health.