Can You Have Too Much Fluoride? Get The Facts

However, like most things in life, getting too much — or too little — of something can be an issue. Fluoride is an excellent example of the importance of balance. Overall, the mineral is safe and effective against cavities, but you should be aware of the minor risks of too much fluoride consumption. Most of these concerns stem from taking in too much of the mineral, particularly at a young age, which can cause dental fluorosis.

According to the ADA, dental fluorosis, also known as mottled teeth, occurs when children consume too much fluoride over too long a period of time while their teeth are developing. Most cases of fluorosis result from young children taking fluoride supplements or swallowing fluoride toothpaste when the water they drink is already fluoridated. Streaks, spots or pits may develop on the surfaces of the teeth once they come up above the gums. In severe cases, the enamel can develop brown, black or gray spots and the teeth can become pitted.

Don’t worry! It won't have a negative impact on your child's dental health. These streaks and spots are treatable and often reversible. Often, the condition is so mild that only a dental professional can detect it.

The chance of developing fluorosis exists until about age eight because teeth are still forming under the gums. Here are some helpful guidelines around safe fluoride use for babies and kids.

Infant to three years old:

• Breastfed infants are unlikely to develop fluorosis, since breast milk is very low in fluoride. Even if they're drinking fluoridated water, nursing moms and pregnant women don't pass large quantities of fluoride to their babies.
• Moms who feed their babies formula should mix low-fluoride or fluoride-free water with powder or liquid concentrate. Ready-to-feed formula is also an option, since it contains minimal amounts of fluoride.
• When teeth come in use only a smear size (no bigger than a grain of rice) of fluoride toothpaste for twice daily brushing.
• Spit it out! As they are able, children should be taught to spit out toothpaste when brushing. Ages three to eight:

• Continue brushing teeth thoroughly twice a day with a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
• DO NOT use fluoride mouth rinses for children under six unless advised to do so by a dentist or other health professional. Children younger than six haven’t fully developed their swallowing reflex and may swallow more than they spit out.

Remember, most fluorosis cases are preventable. Remind children to not swallow toothpaste while brushing. Speak to your dentist if you have concerns about the amount of fluoride your children are exposed to.