The best rule for fluoride is: Not too much. Not too little.
Ever since the first American city began to manage fluoride levels in its water supply, there’s been plenty of misinformation floating around regarding the potential benefits and dangers of this substance.
In a nutshell, fluoride has been shown to help protect against tooth decay. It also exists naturally in most water supplies. When communities fluoridated their water, they weren’t necessarily adding it; they were adjusting the dose to the best level. That’s why, when it comes to fluoride intake (in water, toothpaste, or tooth varnishes) it pays to apply the Goldilocks Rule:
Not too much. Not too little. Regulate the dose to be juuuuuuuust right.
Infants and young children who drink bottled water instead of fluoridated tap water may be underdosed. Studies have indicated that decades of exposure to excessively high levels of fluoride may affect bone mineral density in older adults.
If you’re concerned about fluoride levels, ask us about it at your next appointment. We’d be happy to supply some guidelines!
