Risks of Fluoride

Fluoride is known as an important preventative material against cavities. They are frequently commercialized as an important discovery and advancement for human health as it can help reverse the initial decay process. However, what is less talked about is the neurotoxin effect it has on the body.

Some known health effects of fluoride include:

1. Developmental Neurotoxin – negatively impacts brain and body development. Studies have shown when ingested by pregnant women, could cause lowering of child’s IQ
2. Skeletal fluorosis – weakening of bone leading to increased risk of fracture
3. Inhibitor of cellular enzyme- inhibits cell function by blocking magnesium
4. Neurological issues – Parkinsons, fibromyalgia, MS
5. Gastrointestinal upset
6. Arthritis
7. Cancer

Sources of fluoride is not just from the conventional toothpaste, dental materials or artificially/naturally fluoridated water. It also exists in many other products and food sources. Pesticides/ fertilizers, supplements/ medications, beverages, Grapes, tea bags, coffee beans, milk, cookware, the list goes on.

Back in 2010, data collected from CDC showed 23% of Americans aged 6-49 and 41% age between 12-14 exhibit fluorosis, the first visible sign of fluoride toxicity in human body. With more and more fluoride usage in various industries, fluoride sources and fluoride intake in American population only increased. The most recent Tap water study conducted by USGS published on July 5, 2023, more than 45% of nation’s tap water now contains PFAS (polyfluorinated alkyl substances), a group of chemical substances produced by electrochemical fluorination.

It is important to eliminate unnecessary exposure to fluoride to keep our health under check. There are natural alternatives which could help prevent cavity so we do not need to solely rely on fluoride to help us. Thus it is important to screen for dental materials. At Seattle Dental Care, you can rest assured that our Biological Dentist understands the harm fluoride can do to the body and will help you achieve a better health with our clean dental materials.