Safety and Benefits of Fluoride

Reassure families regarding the safety and proven benefits of fluoride when used properly. Guide discussions with the following points in mind:

• If a family inquires about fluoride, begin by telling them that fluoride is “natural” and an important mineral contained in most water sources. Bacteria in the mouth combine with sugars and produce acid that can harm tooth enamel and damage teeth. Fluoride protects teeth from acid damage and helps reverse early signs of decay. It is important that children drink plenty of water and brush with toothpaste that has fluoride in it. Children benefit from both topical and systemic fluoride. Be aware that some toothpastes do not contain fluoride such as those labeled “training” toothpaste and “natural” toothpaste.
• If a family is concerned about fluoride, focus on specific, expressed patient/family concerns. Some people have a vague sense that fluoride is dangerous but have no knowledge about risks and benefits. (In the US, there are no areas where natural levels of fluoride are high enough to cause anything but mild cosmetic discoloration of the teeth.) Broadening to a general fluoride discussion initially without eliciting the specific concerns of the family may increase the length of the discussion and possibly offer up new concerns.
• Keep the discussion open during future visits if families remain hesitant.

For further reading about water fluoridation, see the American Fluoridation Society.