Fluoride – what is it actually?

Fluorides are mineral salts of the element fluorine and count as trace elements. They occur in natural form, in water or various foodstuffs, to name some examples. In the human body, they are needed to build up teeth and bones, which is why a sufficient intake of fluoride is needed especially in early years.

Fluoride and tooth health

Fluorides are employed in dental medicine to prevent caries. They are deposited in the tooth structure, thus hardening the tooth. The tooth then becomes more resistant to acids and bacteria. In addition, fluorides promote the natural process of tooth remineralisation. In small amounts, fluoride is neither poisonous nor does it have any harmful effect. 

Information

Important information regarding the intake of fluoride

Fluoride is a natural substance that is used in many toothcare products – also in Dentinox®. Handled properly, it does not constitute a hazard but promotes good health. Nevertheless, there are some things that should be noted regarding the intake of fluoride. We will provide you with an overview.

Form of fluoride intake in babies and toddlers
Fluoride can be ingested by babies and toddlers in two ways. Firstly, through the taking of fluoride tablets or, secondly, through the use of a toothpaste containing fluoride. When taking fluoride tablets, toothpaste without fluoride must be used. Dentinox provides the right toothpaste for both cases, either with or without additional fluoride. If you have any doubts, please consult your paediatrician or dentist.

Is there any danger of overdosing? 
As with many other substances, it is a question of dosage whether fluoride is good or bad for your health. Consuming too much fluoride causes what is known as fluorosis. Such extreme forms of such damage to the enamel virtually never occurs in Germany. A very mild form of dental fluorosis can occur even in Europe involving fine white lines or whitish areas, with a cloud-like appearance. This indicates a little too much fluoride but it is, however, only a cosmetic issue. But if fluoride is used properly, there is no danger of overdosing.

What happens when children swallow toothpaste containing fluoride?
Generally speaking, children are not able to spit out properly until they reach the age of 3–4 years. This fact is, of course, taken into consideration in the production of children’s toothpaste. This means that it is quite safe for children to swallow the toothpaste. If, however, a child were to swallow an entire tube of toothpaste for adults, this might cause stomach pain and nausea.

nenedent® First Teeth with fluoride

Children’s toothpaste 0–6 years 500 ppm fluoride
Junior toothpaste 6–12 years 1000–1500 ppm fluoride
Toothpaste for adults 1000–1500 ppm fluoride
If a child takes fluoride tablets before their second birthday, fluoride-free toothpaste must be used.

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