Fluoride formula for good teeth

THE American Dental Association (ADA) would like to clarify some issues raised in the report headlined ‘Tap water warnings for baby formula’ (Irish Examiner, October 5).

The ADA continues to endorse community water fluoridation as a safe, beneficial and cost-effective public health measure for preventing tooth decay.

As the leader of a science-based profession, the ADA continually reviews new information about fluoride’s impact on health.

On November 9, 2006, the ADA issued interim guidelines on fluoride intake for infants and young children.

It was issued so that parents, carers and healthcare professionals who might be concerned about a possible increased risk of fluorosis had some simple and effective advice on ways to reduce fluoride intake from reconstituted infant formula.

Enamel fluorosis, in most cases, results in faint white lines or streaks on tooth enamel that are not readily apparent to the affected individual or the casual observer.

It is important for all parents to know that even if infants are fed formula mixed with water containing fluoride, it doesn’t mean they will develop enamel fluorosis.

It means they might do so, that they are at increased risk because fluoride intake above the recommended level for a child’s age creates a risk of enamel fluorosis.

If parents are concerned about this possible increased risk, they may choose to use breast milk, ready-to-feed infant formula or infant formula mixed with purified water.

Additionally, the guidance noted that in order to reduce the risk of fluorosis, parents should monitor the use of all fluoride-containing dental products by young children, including toothpaste and mouth rinse.

The bottom line is that community water fluoridation remains the single most effective public health measure to prevent tooth decay and improve oral health.

James B Bramson DDS

Executive Director

American Dental Association

211 East Chicago Ave

Chicago

Illinois

USA