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While the internet is an endless pool of knowledge, it comes with a price: the spreading of misinformation. Is fluoride good for you? After a quick Google search you will find a barrage of websites for and against the substance commonly found in toothpaste and water. While it is possible to become ill due to an overabundance of the chemical in your system, or suffer from a rare allergy’ in most cases, it is considered safe.
Fluoride is a natural mineral found within water, soil, and rocks, which has three different compounds considered safe by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The chemical works to fight bacteria in plaque so it can cease the creation of acid, which erodes teeth and causes decay. Fluoride can also help areas which have been affected by decay and acid, by strengthening them.
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that children start using fluoride-containing toothpaste when they turn two, and learn to spit out their toothpaste instead of swallowing it. Make sure to supervise your child when they brush their teeth; while swallowing a little fluoride toothpaste isn’t that bad, if it happens every day, it could build up, and cause potential health problems.
Children are the most at risk for developing fluorosis, a condition where the person ingests too much fluoride and their teeth begin to discolor. The child is the most susceptible for this condition when the adult teeth are still forming in the gums. Once the adult teeth have developed, it is highly unlikely that they will ever develop the problem.
While scientists are still studying the effects of fluoride in water, if you are concerned, you can contact your water supplier to check the levels. Once your child has past the age of two, integrating fluoride from water and toothpaste is considered a good practice.
