Encyclopedia of Health and Medicine

fluoridation 25
fluoride continues to interact with the enamel
through its presence in the saliva. Dentists also
may apply topical fluoride to the surfaces of the
teeth for added protection.
The American Dental Association and numerous
other health organizations advocate fluoridation,
though some groups question the safety of
the practice. In the decades since fluoridation
became public policy, numerous claims about
adverse health effects have surfaced. Investigations
of those concerns have failed to produce
conclusive evidence to validate them, when fluoride
levels are within the established therapeutic
ranges. Excessive fluoride consumption can cause
dental fluoridosis, in which dark stains appear on
the teeth. Though harmless, the tooth stains are
permanent. Children should use fluoridated
toothpaste in small amounts and with close
parental supervision.
See also ORAL HYGIENE.