Health Library
We have a vast digital library of medical information, including wellness and psychiatry topics as well as general medical topics. For more information or to schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to call us.
Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Fluoride is a mineral that helps prevent tooth decay and dental cavities. It may be added to local water supplies, toothpastes, and other mouth care products. Pediatric dentists recommend that you use a rice-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste up to age 3. Ask your dentist if this is right for your child. Use a pea-sized amount for children ages 3 to 6 years.footnote 1 Tooth decay is reduced in children if fluoride is added to or is found naturally in a community's water supply. To find out how much fluoride is in your drinking water, call your local water company or the state health department. If you have your own well, have the state health department check your water to find out if your family needs fluoride from other sources. The amounts of fluoride added to public water supplies and bottled water are safe for children and adults. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends that your child's doctor:footnote 2 If your child has a high risk of getting cavities, your dentist may recommend other sources of fluoride. These include supplements or a gel or varnish that the dentist applies to your child's teeth. Use supplements only as directed. And keep them out of reach of your child. Too much fluoride can be toxic. And it can stain a child's teeth. Fluoride is safe in the amounts provided in water supplies, but it can be toxic in large amounts. Keep all products containing fluoride, such as toothpastes and mouthwashes, away from children. If you think your child may have swallowed too much fluoride, call your local poison control center or the National Poison Control Hotline right away at 1-800-222-1222. Too much fluoride swallowed during the early childhood years may cause white, brown, or black spots or streaks on the outside of the teeth. These stains on the teeth are called fluorosis. They may also cause the tooth enamel to become rough. Current as of: October 24, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Current as of: October 24, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review Board This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org. © 1995-2024 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.Topic Contents
Fluoride During Childhood
Overview
Safety
Fluorosis
Related Information
References
Citations
Credits
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.