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Fluoride Supplements

This page was reviewed or revised on Monday, January 16, 2012 10:36 AM

Recommendations

Since April 2000, Dental Staff of the Child Health & Dental Services Department do NOT recommend the use of fluoride supplements unless there are special circumstances.

The Child Health & Dental Services Department is aware that this position may differ from recommendations members of the public may receive from other groups including medical, dental and nutrition professional groups.

If a parent does choose to use fluoride supplements, it is suggested that this be done only under the advice of a physician or dentist. Please note that fluoride supplements are available over the counter with no prescription in Ontario.

Fluoride occurs naturally in water. However, in the Lambton County area levels of fluoride may vary widely from almost none to excessive. Families on private water supplies should know the fluoride levels in their water and take appropriate steps if it is considered excessive.  Click here for Elevated Fluoride Levels in Drinking Water.

Fluoride in Toothpaste

Children may get fluoride from swallowing toothpaste. Parents must try to avoid or minimize this.

See Fluoride/Non Fluoride Toothpaste Factsheet Recommendations

Page authored by Dr. Maria van Harten, Dental Consultant