Fluoride

Fluoride is a mineral that occurs naturally in water, food, and soil. Most people are exposed to fluoride through treated drinking water and dental products such as toothpaste and mouthwash.

What does fluoride do?

Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay by making teeth more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria combined with sugars in the mouth. In children under six years of age, fluoride becomes incorporated into developing permanent teeth, making them more resistant to demineralisation by acids.

Fluoride may be ingested in liquid or tablet form or applied topically to the teeth through toothpaste or mouthwashes. Infants and children between the ages of six months and 16 years need appropriate exposure to fluoride, as this is the period during which primary and permanent teeth are forming and erupting.

Fluoride is safe and effective when used correctly; however, excessive intake can be harmful. Too much fluoride can cause defects in tooth enamel, ranging from barely noticeable white spots to more severe brown discolouration. Overdose is possible if a child consumes an entire tube of toothpaste. For this reason, it is advisable to avoid flavoured toothpastes, such as bubble-gum varieties, as these are more likely to be swallowed rather than spat out.

A pea-sized amount of toothpaste is sufficient for a child’s toothbrush. Fluoride supplements should always be stored well out of reach of young children.