Fluoride – what it is and its functions!

Fluoride is a mineral probably best known for preventing tooth decay , as it helps harden tooth enamel. Fluoride stimulates the formation of new bone throughout the life cycle, offering some protection against the development of osteoporosis .

Best sources of fluoride:

Few foods contain fluoride . Exceptions are fluoridated water, beverages and infant formula made with fluoridated water, and some marine fish.

Deficiency:

Inadequate fluoride intakes result in an increased risk of tooth decay . Symptoms can include visible lumps or holes in the teeth and toothaches.

Babies and children who live in areas with non-fluoridated water may be at risk for fluoride deficiency. In this case, fluoride supplements are recommended for these children.

Too much fluoride:

Fluoride is toxic when consumed in excessive amounts. Large doses consumed at once can result in nausea, abdominal pain and vomiting.

Excessive long-term fluoride intake can result in fluorosis, of which there are two types: enamel fluorosis or mild to extreme skeletal fluorosis. Enamel fluorosis is characterized by brown stains and erosion of teeth in children and is the result of excess fluoride before the first permanent teeth erupt.

Mild to extreme skeletal fluorosis is rare, only five cases have been confirmed since the mid-1960s. This condition can start with joint pain and stiffness in its mild form and develops into crippling calcification of ligaments, muscle wasting, neurological problems. , immobility and possibly osteoporosis.

If your community water supply is fluoridated, you might ask yourself is it safe? Critics claim fluoridated water is unsafe, can cause cancer and is ineffective in preventing tooth decay .

However, a critical review of science conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 2001 and approved by the American Dental Association concluded: “When used properly, fluoride is a safe and effective agent that can be used to prevent and control dental caries .

Fluoride has contributed profoundly to improving people’s oral health . To ensure further gains in oral health, water fluoridation should be extended to other communities, and fluoride toothpaste should be used widely.