I'm confused about fluoride. I currently use fluoride free toothpaste due to it's name. But I'm aware many people get told by their dentist to "use more flouride to prevent tooth decay". I have quite bad teeth at the moment, I need to see a dentist I haven't gone in about 4 years ... But I'm also scared of dentists cos the last prick gave me a mercury filling.  What is it with dentists ? They love fluoride and mercury. I just want to know the facts, is fluoride really beneficial or not.