Too much of a good thing?

Article Abstract:

No scientific evidence currently indicates that fluoridation of drinking water adversely affects the digestive, genitourinary, or respiratory tracts, or that it causes cancer. However, concerns can be raised about the apparent increase in dental fluorosis (discoloration of the teeth) in all communities, regardless of whether they fluoridate their water. It is likely that this results from the ingestion of fluoride from a variety of dental products, such as supplements or toothpaste, which are frequently swallowed by small children. The greatest increase in dental fluorosis has been in communities without fluoridated water, where the rate of the disorder has risen from 0.9 percent in the 1940s to 6.4 percent in the 1980s. Most cases are mild or very mild, but can be troubling to the people affected. Ideally, fluoridation programs should provide maximal protection against cavities without increasing the risk of fluorosis. Health professionals can help patients reduce excess fluoride consumption. They should also know how much fluoride patients consume in drinking water, which may mean inquiring about whether community water or water from other sources (bottled or well water) is used in the home. Fluoride supplements are indicated for children through adolescence if drinking water levels are less than 0.7 parts per million. Children under six should be discouraged from swallowing toothpaste and should apply only pea-sized amounts on the brush. During dental procedures using fluoride-containing gels, patients should be positioned and suctioned to minimize swallowing the gel. Labeling for toothpaste and other fluoride-containing products should have information about their appropriate use. A recent report from the US Public Health Service, titled 'Review of Fluoride Benefits and Risks', discusses research findings concerning fluoride in depth. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Investigations, Water, Water fluoridation, United States. Public Health Service

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Caries prevention in the 21st century

Article Abstract:

Cavities are caused by the action of bacteria that live on teeth. These bacteria convert sugar in food to acid. This acid leaches minerals from the teeth, causing dental enamel to break down. Saliva contains buffers that remove the acid, but people who eat lots of sugar may overwhelm the natural buffers in saliva. Fluoride in water, toothpaste and mouthwash is effective in rebuilding the mineral content of enamel. Other techniques for remineralizing enamel are in development. However, dentists must detect cavities at a much earlier stage for these treatments to be effective.

Prevention, Dental caries

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Risk factors for Enamel Fluorosis in optimally fluoridated children born after the US manufacturers' decision to reduce the fluoride concentration of infant formula

Article Abstract:

A study was conducted to investigate risk factors for enamel fluorosis in optimally fluoridated children who were born after the US formula industry reduced the fluoride content of their products. The study was performed on 233 children. No link was found between the use of ready to feed infant formula and enamel fluorosis.

Research, Fluorosis, Infant formulas

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