Commentary on and recommendations for the proper uses of fluoride

Abstract

Fluorosis has been associated with the fluoride concentration of drinking water, use of dietary fluoride supplements, early use of dentifrices, and prolonged use of infant formula. The literature, however, does not show associations between fluorosis and use of fluoride mouthrinses, professionally applied fluorides, bottled waters, carbonated beverages, and juices. It is unwise to issue laundry lists of items that may be implicated as problem-causing when, in fact, they may not be. Although usually classified without fluorosis, children in Dean's "questionable" category would be classified with the condition if the TFI or TSIF were used. Accordingly, Dean, in 1942, really reported only 52.8 percent of children without fluorosis in Kewanee, a community with 0.9 ppm fluoride in drinking water. Because the morbidity and sequelae of dental caries have declined, undue emphasis has been placed recently on the risks of using fluoride rather than on its profound beneficial effects. Although of paramount importance, conclusions cannot be drawn on whether fluoride protects against, contributes to, or has no effect on bone fractures or is valuable in treating osteoporosis. Careful thought is required before making recommendations that may reduce health benefits because of unfounded concerns about perceived risks. There should be greater regulation of extraneous fluoride sources, rather than reliance on educational efforts or recommendations to eliminate use of highly effective preventive regimens.