Fluoride is one of the most studied ways to help prevent tooth decay, and also one of the most debated online. Here is what UK guidance says.

What fluoride does

Fluoride helps enamel recover minerals lost during acid attacks, and makes teeth more resistant to decay. It works mainly on the surface of the teeth, which is why fluoride toothpaste matters.

How much toothpaste to use

• Under 3 years: a smear of toothpaste containing at least 1,000ppm fluoride.
• 3 to 6 years: a pea-sized amount of toothpaste with more than 1,000ppm fluoride.
• 7 years and over, and adults: toothpaste with 1,350 to 1,500ppm fluoride.

Check the fluoride level on the tube. Supervise young children’s brushing, and encourage them to spit out rather than swallow or rinse.

Myth: fluoride is unsafe at any level

At the levels in toothpaste used as directed, fluoride is considered safe and effective by UK health bodies. As with many substances, too much can cause problems, which is why the amounts above are recommended for children.

Fact: excess fluoride in early childhood can cause fluorosis

Dental fluorosis appears as faint white flecks or lines on the teeth. It develops only while teeth are forming, mainly when young children swallow too much toothpaste regularly. Mild fluorosis is cosmetic and often barely noticeable.

Fluoride varnish

A fluoride varnish can be painted on to children’s teeth, and on to adults’ teeth at higher risk of decay. It takes a minute and helps strengthen the enamel.

Higher-strength toothpaste

If you have a high risk of decay, we may prescribe a higher-fluoride toothpaste. Only use this if a dental professional has prescribed it for you.

For children’s check-ups, see our children’s dentistry page.

Contact Dental Wellness Finchley Road

Dental Wellness Finchley Road, 106 Finchley Rd, South Hampstead, London NW3 5JJ.

Call 020 3813 3848, message us on WhatsApp (07522 141064), email smile@dentalwellnessfinchleyroad.co.uk or book online.