Fluoride and Children

Fluoride from drinking water and other sources such as toothpaste can strengthen tooth enamel and help prevent tooth decay. Below is a list of questions that parents frequently ask about fluoride and how it can help their children.

Why do children need fluoride?

Fluoride is an important mineral for all children. Bacteria in the mouth combine with sugars and produce acid that can harm tooth enamel and damage teeth. Fluoride protects teeth from acid damage and helps reverse early signs of decay. Make sure your children are drinking plenty of water and brushing with toothpaste that has fluoride in it.

Is fluoridated water safe for my children?

Yes. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), along with the American Dental Association (ADA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), agree that water fluoridation is a safe and effective way to prevent tooth decay.  

Should I mix infant formula with fluoridated water?

According to the ADA, it is safe to use fluoridated water to mix infant formula. The risk if mixing infant formula with fluoridated water is mild fluorosis (see below for more information on this condition).

What if I prefer not to use fluoridated water for infant formula?

If you prefer not to use fluoridated water with formula, you can:

• Breastfeed your baby
• Use bottled or purified water that has no fluoride with the formula
• Use ready-to-feed formula that does not need water to be added

How else can my child get fluoride?

There are many sources of fluoride. Fluoridated water and toothpaste are the most common. It is also found in many foods and beverages. So making sure your child eats a balanced diet with plenty of calcium and vitamin D is a great way to keep teeth healthy. Your dentist or pediatrician may also recommend a topical fluoride treatment during well child or dental visits at various stages of your child’s development.

When should my child start using fluoride toothpaste?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends using a “smear” of toothpaste on children under the age of two twice each day. Children aged 2-5 can use a “pea-size” amount.
Recommendations regarding the use of fluoride toothpaste in children under the age of 2 vary.