Fluorine: Benefits, Dangers and Use in Dentistry : Your online pharmacy selection

What is fluorine?

Fluorine is an essential trace element, naturally present in the earth's crust,water and certain foods, and used in a variety of health products. Known for its protective effects on teeth, it plays a major role in the prevention of dental caries. It is mainly found in toothpastes, mouthwashes, fluoridated mineral waters and, in some countries, influoridated drinking water.

What are the benefits of fluoride?

Fluorine is recognized for its numerous health benefits:

• Strengthens tooth enamel: protects against acid attacks responsible for tooth decay.
• Promotes remineralization of teeth: It helps repair weakened enamel by stimulating the incorporation of minerals.
• Prevents tooth decay: inhibits the development of cariogenic bacteria, reducing plaque formation.
• Strengthens bones: Although its role is secondary, it does contribute to bone mineralization.

Which foods are rich in fluorine?

Fluorine is present in a number of foods and beverages, including

• Fluoridated mineral waters (e.g. Vichy Célestins, Badoit)
• Black and green teas
• Fish and seafood (sardines, salmon, shrimps)
• Green leafy vegetables (spinach, kale)
• Nuts and almonds

Tip: For natural fluoride intake, opt for a balanced diet with mineral-rich foods.

Why is fluoride used in toothpastes?

Fluoride is added to toothpastes to :

• Strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities.
• Neutralize acids produced by bacteria.
• Stimulate remineralization of teeth, reducing the risk of erosion.

Toothpastes generally contain between 1000 and 1500 ppm fluoride (parts per million), a concentration considered ideal for protecting the teeth of adults and children aged 6 and over.

What are the dangers of excess fluoride?

Although fluoride is beneficial in moderate quantities, excessive consumption can have undesirable effects:

• Dental fluorosis: Excessive exposure to fluoride during childhood can cause white spots on the enamel.
• Acute toxicity: At very high doses, it can cause nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain.
• Bone fluorosis: Excessive accumulation in bones can weaken bone structure and cause joint pain.

Recommendation: It's important not to exceed recommended intakes or swallow fluoride toothpaste, especially in young children.

What is the recommended daily intake of fluoride?

Fluoride requirements vary according to age:

• Infants (0-6 months): 0.01 mg/day
• Children (1-3 years): 0.5 mg/day
• Children (4-8 years): 1 mg/day
• Adolescents and adults: 3 to 4 mg/day

In France, fluoride is no longer routinely prescribed in supplement form, except in cases of proven deficiency.

Should children be given fluoride?

The use of fluoride in children must be adapted:

• Before the age of 6, use an appropriate fluoride toothpaste, with a dose of 500 ppm.
• Do not give fluoride tablets without medical advice.
• Limit exposure to avoid the risk of fluorosis.

Tip:Children shouldbe taught to spit out toothpaste after brushing to limit fluoride intake.

What's the difference between fluoride and fluoride?

Fluorine is a naturally occurring chemical element, while fluoride is its ionic form, used in toothpastes, mouthwashes and dental treatments. It is in this form that it exerts its protective effects on teeth.

How does fluoride affect bone health?

Fluorine plays a role in bone mineralization, but :

• Moderate consumption can help maintain bone strength.
• Excess can lead to bone fluorosis, making bones more rigid and brittle.

Supplemental fluoride is therefore not recommended for the prevention of osteoporosis.

Why do some countries fluoridate their drinking water?

In some countries (USA, Canada, Australia), fluoride is added to drinking water to prevent dental caries on a population-wide scale. In France, however, this measure is not applied, as fluoride intake is considered sufficient via the diet and fluoridated toothpastes.

Is fluoride harmful to the environment?

In high concentrations, fluorine released by certain industries (aluminum, fertilizers) can contaminate soil and water. Excessive exposure can be toxic to certain animals and plants, hence the importance of strict control of industrial discharges.