Fluoride is a natural mineral that helps prevent cavities and maintain dental health. This is why many dental products, such as mouthwash, toothpaste, and drinking water, are fortified with fluoride. The question remains: is fluoride safe or harmful? You can find the answer in the article Opal will present today.
Despite its many benefits for maintaining healthy teeth, fluoride can also be harmful if used excessively and not according to recommendations. Therefore, you must fully understand the use of fluoride-containing products.
What is Fluoride?
Fluoride is an ion of the element fluoride or what is commonly called a natural mineral whose main function is to protect the outer layer of teeth (enamel) from being easily eroded and developing cavities.
This natural mineral is commonly found in soil, water, and some foods. The presence of fluoride strengthens tooth enamel against acid attacks from bacteria and food debris, which can lead to diseases like tooth decay.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized that fluoride can be an effective dental protector. However, like any other substance, proper dosage is essential. The key to optimal dental protection is the correct dosage.
Is Fluoride Dangerous?
Fluoride is indeed important for dental health, but if you use fluoride brutally it will cause various diseases for your body, not just teeth.
These problems arise when you use fluoride inappropriately and excessively. The resulting health problems range from mild to serious.
Kidney failure
For chronic kidney sufferers, excessive accumulation of fluoride cannot be excreted optimally and can ultimately worsen kidney conditions.
The kidneys will work harder due to excessive fluoride consumption, while the kidneys have a very important role, namely filtering and removing fluoride that enters the body.
Dental Fluorosis
This condition usually occurs in children with the following characteristics:
- Opaque white patches
- Faint lines
- Permanent brown stains on the enamel of the teeth
In severe cases due to excessive fluoride exposure during the tooth formation phase, tooth enamel will appear rough and even have holes.
Bone Problems & Osteofluorosis
Bone problems (Osteofluorosis) occurs due to long-term exposure to high doses of fluoride. Minerals that accumulate in the bones over time can cause structural changes, leading to:
- Stiff bones
- Joint pain
- Movement becomes limited
In severe conditions,osteofluorosisIt can also cause ligament hardening and abnormal bone formation, resulting in impaired posture and motor function.
The Effects of Excess Fluoride on Brain and Hormonal Development in Children
According to research by the World Health Organization (WHO), excessive fluoride exposure can impair cognitive function in children. It is also very harmful to hormonal balance and neurological development.
What needs to be noted is that childhood is a phasegolden agewhich is a crucial period for brain development.
Not only that, ingested fluoride from toothpaste can also affect thyroid gland function. Impaired thyroid function can significantly impact metabolism and growth in children.
Reason Over Dosis Fluoride
The average child likes to swallow fluoride toothpastewhen brushing their teeth because of its sweet taste. Furthermore, these children are also not yet able to spit properly. This is one of the main factors contributing to fluoride excess in children.
Some other factors include consuming drinking water with a naturally high fluoride content, which occurs in several geographical areas in Indonesia.
Uncontrolled fluoride supplementation from industrial sources can also be a cause. Therefore, it is crucial to measure the source of exposure and the dose of fluoride.
How to Avoid the Dangers of Fluoride
Preventing excess fluoride can be done by controlling usage and monitoring mineral sources. Opal has also outlined practical steps you can take to minimize the dangers of fluoride:
- Use fluoride according to the dose (the size of a corn kernel) for children.
- Tell your child not to swallow toothpaste when brushing their teeth.
- Monitor the levels of natural fluoride in your drinking water, especially if you live in areas with high fluoride levels.
- The use of fluoride supplements must be consulted with a dentist.
- Supervise children so that they do not consume fluoride products other than toothpaste and mineral water.
Consultation Regarding Fluoride with Opal Dental!
Medical consultation is essential if your child exhibits symptoms of serious dental fluorosis, bone pain, and stiffness. Any changes in behavior that seem suspicious also require evaluation to prevent the condition from worsening. The doctor will conduct an analysis and determine the appropriate course of action.
Maintain your health by understanding the dangers of fluoride. Because excess fluoride can cause serious problems for your teeth and overall health, be sure to use fluoride in the correct dosage.
Don't hesitate to consult with an Opal Dental dentist who is ready to provide the right health recommendations,