Why should you be a fluoride fan? As the American Dental Association (ADA) notes, fluoride is often called "nature's cavity fighter," especially for developing teeth. The good news is that you've probably been getting the right amount of fluoride, and all its benefits, without even trying! Fluoride from water, food or supplements helps build strong tooth enamel, which is better able to resist decay. After the teeth have erupted, fluoride helps rebuild enamel and can even reverse the earliest stages of tooth decay.
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.