Can you have too much of a good thing? Dental hygienist Gerald Wennerstrom outlines the benefits of fluoride, and some reasonable precautions.

Raisingkids member's problem
The water in our area has been fluoridated, and we use toothpaste with fluoride in it. Should I still give my children fluoride drops? Or is too much fluoride harmful?

Gerald Wennerstrom's reply
As you know, fluoride makes teeth stronger and more resistant to decay. This is achieved in two ways: systemically, through fluoridated water, food, prescription drops/tablets, and topically through fluoridated toothpaste and dental office fluoride treatments. However, if you live an area that the water has had the fluoride added to it then you may not need the drops/tablets. Check with your paediatrician or dentist to be sure that the water supply is adequate.

A word of caution - if you filter your water, as some water filters will remove fluoride. If in doubt, check with the manufacturer. When buying toothpaste, choose a child's fluoride toothpaste as it has been adjusted for the age groups of two to seven. Smear a pea-sized amount over the brush.

Can too much be harmful? Yes and no. A condition known as fluorosis can develop if too much fluoride is ingested. In severe cases of enamel fluorosis, the teeth are marred by discoloration or brown markings. The tooth may be pitted, rough, and hard to clean. In mild cases it is often unnoticeable. These spots develop in the teeth, before their eruption, between the ages of birth to six. Physically there is no known harm. I applaud you for being concerned.