DEFINITION
Fluoride is a mineral commonly found in some foods and drinks, fluoride toothpastes, gels, mouth rinses and in some community water supplies.
MEDICAL USE
- Protection against dental cavities in infants and children. Fluoride strengthens teeth by decreasing dental decay, reducing the effect of acids on teeth and repairing teeth weak spots. - Osteoporosis. Fluoride may play a role in bone mineralisation. The benefit of Fluoride supplementation in the treatment of osteoporosis is currently inconclusive.
DEFICIENCY
There are no known effects of Fluoride deficiency.
SOURCES
Seafoods and tea are high in fluoride. Fluorinated drinking water is also an important source. Cereal and milk provide a smaller amount of Fluoride.
NOTES
- Fluoride supplements should not be taken by patients with kidney failure, or women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. - Chalky white patches on teeth or yellow-brown staining of teeth are possible side effects of Fluoride. - Acute overdose may lead to stomach upset, bloody vomit, drowsiness, weakness, tremors and shallow breathing.
