Is Fluoride Safe?

Fluoride is an important mineral for children's dental health, as it helps to prevent tooth decay by making the enamel (the outer surface of teeth) more resistant to acid attacks from plaque and sugars in the mouth.

Benefits of Fluoride for Children include:

1. Prevention of Tooth Decay: Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel, helping to prevent cavities.

2. Repair of Early Tooth Damage: In some cases, fluoride can help to reverse early signs of tooth decay by remineralising areas of weakened enamel.

3. Promotes Long-Term Dental Health: Regular exposure to fluoride, through toothpaste, mouthwash and dental treatments, helps children maintain healthy teeth into adulthood.

Sources of Fluoride:

1. Fluoridated Water: In many regions, public drinking water contains added fluoride. In the UK, around 10% of the population receives fluoridated water. In some areas, fluoride is naturally present in water, while in others, it is artificially added. Regions like parts of the West Midlands and the North East have fluoridated water supplies. However, many areas, including London, do not have fluoridated water.

2. Toothpaste: Most children's toothpaste contains fluoride. It's recommended to use a smear of fluoride toothpaste for children under 3 and a pea-sized amount for children aged 3 to 6. All children up to three years old should use a toothpaste with a fluoride level of at least 1000ppm
(parts per million). After three years old they should use a toothpaste that contains 1350ppm to 1500ppm. 

3. Professional Fluoride Treatments: Dentists may apply fluoride varnish or gel during check-ups, especially if the child is at a higher risk for cavities.

Fluoride Safety for Children:

While fluoride is generally safe and effective, excessive fluoride exposure during early childhood can lead to a condition called “dental fluorosis”, which causes faint white streaks or spots on the teeth. To minimise the risk:

- Use an appropriate amount of toothpaste based on the child's age.

- Supervise children to ensure they spit out toothpaste rather than swallowing it.

- If your water supply is fluoridated, talk to your dentist or pediatrician before using fluoride supplements.

When used properly, fluoride can be an excellent tool for protecting children's teeth and promoting lifelong oral health. Many reports have been published throughout the world about fluoride. After many years, the scientific conclusion is that fluoride toothpaste is of great benefit to dental health, help to reduce decay, and cause no harmful side effects to general health.