The agency is set to review fluoride in children’s products by late October.
Fluoride is found in everyday items from toothpaste to drinking water, but the U.S. Food and Drug Administration plans to take a closer look at how the mineral is used in children’s products.
The FDA announced it will conduct a scientific review of ingestible fluoride products intended for children, with a goal of completing the review by late October. The agency said it aims to remove certain fluoride supplements — specifically those consumed through food and drinks— from the market.
A recent study published in JAMA Health Forum suggested that ending water fluoridation across all 50 states could lead to a rise in dental cavities among children. The study estimated that approximately one in three children could develop a cavity within five years without fluoride in tap water.
Our Verify team breaks down what families should know.
OUR SOURCES:
THE QUESTION:
How important is fluoride in our overall dental health?
THE ANSWER:
Experts said fluoride plays a vital role in protecting and strengthening teeth on a daily basis.
“Fluoride is really important to protect our teeth because it does sort of two things,” Dr. Kohli explained. “It prevents demineralization of our teeth, and it also helps with remineralization.”
Dr. Robinson noted that many people already benefit from fluoride in their daily routines.
“We all utilize fluoride, whether it’s in our toothpaste or our drinking water,” Robinson said. “For those without access to fluoridated water, supplements are sometimes used.”
THE QUESTION:
When it comes to children, what amount of fluoride is considered safe?
THE ANSWER:
The American Dental Association supports the use of fluoride and recommends supplements for children in communities without access to fluoridated water. However, the association and health experts agree that dosage is key.
Robinson said that while fluoride is generally safe, excessive amounts can lead to complications.
“It can cause problems with the teeth, ironically, when used in higher amounts than recommended,” she said. “It can also cause problems with the bones.”
Still, Robinson emphasized the levels typically found in drinking water and dental products are far below harmful thresholds.
“In general, fluoride and normal applications [are] very safe to use and doesn’t really put you at risk for those complications,” she said.
Families with concerns about fluoride use — especially when it comes to children — are encouraged to speak with their dentist or pediatrician to determine the best dental care plan.
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