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If its consumption is too low, we will not benefit from its positive effects such as preventing cavities and strengthening enamel; and if consumption is excessive, we can develop fluorosis. If we type “fluoride” into any internet search engine, we will obtain countless results with opposing opinions about the consumption of this mineral.
So, probably, after reading some of them, we will still not have a firm answer to the question “is fluoride beneficial or harmful to teeth?”.
At Clínica Cervera we want to answer your questions.
The toxic effect of fluoride, like that of any other organic or inorganic substance, depends on the amount we ingest.
For example, today no one doubts the benefits of vitamins, and yet they can cause diseases if taken in high doses.
The same goes for fluoride.
But in the case of this mineral, the doses of beneficial and toxic effects are very close.
##BULLET##If its consumption is too low, we will not benefit from its positive effects: the prevention of cavities and the strengthening of tooth enamel.
##BULLET##If its consumption is excessive, above 0.1 mg per kilo of body weight, we can develop fluorosis, which would stain the teeth and could destroy the enamel in the most serious cases.
Therefore, to obtain the benefits of fluoride for teeth, a middle ground will have to be found.
What would be this fair measure?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the recommended daily dose is 0.05 mg per kilogram of weight.
And where do we find fluorine?
In fluoridated water and salt, gelatin, sea fish (salmon, sardines…) or tea.
But the European Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (EAPD) states that to benefit from the anti-caries effect of fluoride, it must be applied topically, which would be through varnishes, mouthwashes, toothpastes, gels, fluoridated dental floss… Recommended amounts of fluoride In current dentistry, there is no talk of caries prevention without referring to fluoride, although care must be taken not to sin either by default or by excess.
Specific recommendations for fluoride intake will depend on age and weight, so it is advisable to consult with your dentist to find out which toothpaste is ideal for each case.