Is fluoride bad for kids?

 Fluoride toothpaste is recommended by the ADA for both children and adults and is deemed both
safe and effective in preventing tooth decay.

 Fluoride can also be found in most community public water supplies. The CDC reports that
community water fluoridation may reduce tooth decay by 25%.

 For proper safety, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends using a smear of
fluoride toothpaste on children younger than 3 years old and to avoid swallowing. Ingesting the
toothpaste or using a larger amount may result in issues such as an upset stomach or other health
issues.

 For individuals ages 3 to 6, a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste is safe, but it is best to
supervise them during this process.

 Overall, fluoride toothpaste is safe for children when taken in the recommended amounts and
when not swallowed.

Safety concerns surrounding fluoride toothpaste for kids

Overdose

Although rare, when applied or swallowed at high does, fluoride can be toxic. An overdose of
fluoride will likely require the need to go to the hospital emergency department. Symptoms of
fluoride overdose commonly include stomach pain, possible intestinal blockage, convulsions,
diarrhea, trouble breathing, drooling, abnormal taste, slow heart rate, tremors, vomiting, and
weakness.

Fluoride toxicity

When consumed in excess, especially before the age of 8 during tooth development, dental
fluorosis can occur. Fluorosis often appears as white stains on the outer surface of teeth. This can
be prevented by following the appropriate fluoride dosage guidelines per age group. According
to the CDC, approximately less than 1 in 4 people between the ages of 6-49 have fluorosis.

Age recommendations
According to the ADA, children under the age of 3 years old should use toothpaste with a
fluoride level of 1,000 parts per million (ppm). This typically mirrors a smear or a size of a grain
of rice. Children above the age of 3 are advised to use toothpaste with a fluoride level of 1,350-
1,500 ppm. They should use approximately a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste when
brushing. For all ages, teeth should be brushed twice a day.

How to use fluoride toothpaste safely for kids ?

Dosage recommendations

The ADA recommends a smear of fluoride toothpaste for children under the age of 2 years,
which equates to approximately 0.1 gram of toothpaste or 0.1 milligram of fluoride. For children
between the ages of 2 to 6 years, a pea-sized amount which is approximately 0.25 g toothpaste or
0.25 mg fluoride is recommended.

Importance of supervision

Parental supervision when your child is brushing is key to helping them develop the proper oral
techniques and routine. Supervising children's brushing will help minimize the risk of
swallowing of fluoride toothpaste and potential toxicity. It is also best to encourage them to look
forward to taking care of their teeth, and explain the consequences of poor oral health.

Benefits of fluoride toothpaste for kids

Prevents tooth decay

Tooth decay is caused by bacteria that turn the foods we consume into acids that break down
tooth enamel. Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay by strengthening the teeth to protect against the
harmful bacteria.

Strengthens teeth

Fluoride makes teeth stronger and more resistant to destructive acids. Acids produced by oral
bacteria can lead to tooth wear, tooth sensitivity, dental cavities, gum disease, and many more
oral problems.

Fights bad breath

Fluoride helps stimulate saliva production, which also contributes to strengthening tooth decay
and washing away bacteria. Both fluoride and saliva help combat the smelly odors produced by
oral bacteria.

Promotes healthy gum

Fluoride has an antimicrobial effect which helps promote healthy gums. It also makes it harder
for bacteria to stick to tooth surfaces and the gums.

Reinvigorate your teeth with natural minerals

Another great benefit of fluoride is its capability to remineralize enamel. It forms a compound
known as calcium fluorapatite, which makes your teeth more resistant to acidic breakdown. It
can also reverse early tooth decay.

Tooth strength and protection

Fluoride adds strength to the teeth by making them more resistant to mineral loss. This helps
protect the teeth from acid attacks and cavities.

Reference:
https://www.gentledental.com/resources/articles/fluoride-toothpaste-
for-kids