A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial of 180 postmenopausal women with osteopenia (early bone loss) followed for one year found that compared with the placebo, fluoride supplements of varying amounts showed no changes in bone mineral density. In adults, however, the research does not support the use of fluoride supplements to prevent fractures or improve bone density such as for osteopenia or osteoporosis. A chronic deficiency, especially in children, can lead to weak or brittle bones. It stimulates bone-building cells called osteoblasts and hormones such as insulin-like growth factor. Learn more about nutrition and oral health.įluoride in trace amounts is essential for normal bone growth. Obtaining fluoride topically, such as brushing or rinsing with toothpaste or mouthwash containing fluoride, also effectively strengthens tooth enamel and protects against dental caries. Preventive Services Task Force and the American Dental Association provide guidelines for fluoride supplements in children 6 months to 16 years ranging from 0.25 mg to 1 mg a day, if the tap water supply contains little or no fluoride. Fluoride supplements, toothpastes, and mouthwashes are also effective in preventing dental caries in children, and may be used if fluoridated water is not available. Cohort studies have shown that fluoridated water lowers the risk of tooth decay and premature tooth loss in children and adults. The current recommended amount is 0.7 mg per liter, which helps to reduce the risk of caries but is also low enough to reduce the risk of developing fluorosis (see Toxicity). Obtaining adequate fluoride lowers the risk of developing dental caries as it has antibacterial effects, protects tooth enamel from breaking down, and supports healthy growth of the tooth.Ĭommunity tap water has been fluoridated in the United States since 1945 for the prevention of dental caries. If left untreated, cavities can lead to infections, tooth pain, and tooth loss, and are associated with weight gain, impaired quality of life, and even negative school performance. Bacterial acid quickly damages the softer dentin, causing an indent or “cave,” forming a cavity. Over time, the decay can extend into the inner layer of the tooth, or dentin. The acid gradually wears down the outer protective tooth enamel. Bacteria digest and ferment food that remains in teeth, producing acid. Fluoride and Healthĭental caries occur when a tooth decays from damage caused by bacteria or an infection. UL: The Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) for fluoride for all adults 19+ years of age and pregnant and lactating women is 10 mg daily a UL is the maximum daily intake unlikely to cause harmful effects on health. For women who are pregnant or lactating, the AI is 3 mg. However, adequate intakes (AI), or the amount assumed to ensure adequate nutrition, have been established for adults 19+ years at 4 mg a day for men and 3 mg for women. Recommended AmountsĪI: There is not a Recommended Dietary Allowance for fluoride as nutritional requirements have not been established. Children absorb fluoride more efficiently than adults, as their teeth and bones are rapidly forming. Unabsorbed fluoride is excreted in urine. Most fluoride is absorbed in the gut and stored in bones and teeth. It is most recognized for its role in preventing and reversing dental caries and building strong teeth and bones. Fluoride is a trace mineral naturally found in small amounts in a variety of foods.
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