Viva Vitality: Understanding the science behind fluoride myths

By Jenna Lannan on May 30, 2025.

Tooth decay is still the most common preventable chronic disease worldwide and one of the biggest global public health challenges. In fact, between 60-90 per cent of school-aged children have tooth decay and nearly 100 per cent of adults. Tooth decay accounts for one third of all day surgeries performed on children between the ages of 1 and 5.

Oral health has been recognized as a basic human right. Despite this truth, 70 per cent of the world’s population does not have access to basic dental care.

Prevention is key and the appropriate use of fluoride is important. More than 50 years of extensive research have time and time again demonstrated that fluoride is safe and effective in preventing tooth decay.

Fluoride, in the correct dosage, is healthy at any age! A mineral found in soil, water and various foods, fluoride works in two ways to prevent tooth decay. First, fluoride penetrates tooth enamel and makes it more resistant to cavities. Second, fluoride is known to inhibit one of the enzymes that is necessary for acid production in mouth. No acid means no cavities.

Fluoride is also added to drinking water and was listed by the CDC as one of the 10 greatest public health achievements of the 20th century. It has led to a huge decline in tooth decay in communities who have water fluoridation compared to communities that do not.

When your child gets their first tooth, start brushing their teeth with fluoride toothpaste. For children under 3 years, use an amount the size of a grain of rice. For children 3 years and older, use a pea-size amount. You need to put fluoride toothpaste on the brush for your child and teach them to spit and not swallow it.

Talk to your dentist about a professional fluoride treatment. Based on a cavity risk assessment your dentist will decide how many professional applications of fluoride varnish are needed each year.

Getting an early start using fluoride benefits a child for life. Although fluoride is great, other factors still need to be considered in preventing tooth decay. Diet is very important. Limit sugary starchy foods and eat as many whole foods as possible. Habits such as daily consistent brushing and flossing are also important.

Alberta Health Services offers a free dental screening and fluoride varnish for children aged 12 months to 35 months. Please call your local health unit to book an appointment.

Jenna Lannan is a registered dental hygienist with Alberta Health Services population health promotion oral health department. Visit ahs.ca/oralhealth for more information.

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