Sammanfattning
Concern is growing regarding the use of fl uoride and
its eff ect on teeth, skeleton and the nervous system.
Unfortunately, a lot of information available is not
based on scientifi c studies. The aim of this article
is to show that the use of fl uoride for caries prevention
is not harmful, but very important in securing
good dental health.
Several studies have shown that brushing with
toothpaste containing fl uoride twice daily to prevent
caries formation is suffi cient for most children,
adolescents and adults. However, it is important to
note that fl uoride is not synonymous with fl uorine, a
highly toxic and reactive gas. The fl uoride species in
oral care products release fl uoride ions, which may
aid remineralization of the teeth.
In areas where there are high levels of naturally
occurring fluoride, children may develop dental
fl uorosis, and skeletal fl uorosis is also reported under
these areas. In countries with low levels of naturally
occurring fl uoride and water fl uoridation, no harmful
systemic eff ects are observed.