Low-fluoride toothpaste is no better than nonfluoride toothpaste in preventing tooth decay among children

Toothpastes containing less than 1,000 parts per million of fluoride concentrations are as ineffective at preventing tooth decay as toothpastes with no fluoride at all. This finding, published in the Cochrane Database of research group Cochrane Collaboration, is taken from 79 clinical studies involving 73,000 children worldwide.

Children's toothpastes are in the range of 100 ppm to 1,400 ppm fluoride concentration. Toothpastes with lower fluoride levels, in the 440 to 550 range, give results that are no better than the results seen with toothpaste that does not contain fluoride, said co-authors Helen Worthington and Anne-Marie Glenny of the Cochrane Oral Health Group, School of Dentistry, University of Manchester.

The researchers sought to establish the link between the use of topical fluorides (toothpastes) and the risk of dental fluorosis in young children. Dental fluorosis refers to changes in the appearance of tooth enamel caused by long-term ingestion of fluoride while the teeth are forming. It can range from mild white patches on the teeth to severe mottling with brown staining.

The results suggest that brushing a child's teeth with a fluoride toothpaste before the age of 12 months can increase the risk of the child developing mild fluorosis. And although 1,000 parts per million of fluoride is effective in fighting tooth decay, there is strong evidence that such levels may still cause fluorosis in children up to 6 years of age whose permanent teeth are still developing.

The authors, however, pointed out that for some children considered to be at a high risk of tooth decay by their dentist, the benefit to health of preventing decay may outweigh the risk of fluorosis. In such cases, careful brushing of children's teeth with a small amount of toothpaste containing higher levels of fluoride would be beneficial.

The risk of tooth decay and its consequences, such as pain and extractions, is greater than the small risk of fluorosis. Children would have to swallow a lot of toothpaste over a long period of time to get the severe brown mottling on the teeth, Dr. Glenny added.Parents are advised to speak to their family dentist if in doubt.

Our Services

Patient Reviews

I wished I had tried this dentist office sooner. Everyone there are very professional and knowledgeable. I was looking for a new dentist and I found Dr. Ana and I could not be more satisfied. My confidence in her was well placed. I would hope that every dentist was this good. I had a problem with my teeth for awhile. Two others dentists did not mention it to me but she was able to see what my problem was right away. It is now fixed and I couldn’t be more pleased with the work she did.

Dr. Ana is a fabulous dentist. Recently I had extensive dental work on my front teeth. Prior to the start of work she took an impression and made a temporary piece that looked natural. I am extremely happy with the final result. She is meticulous and caring, a great combination. The office staff is professional and courteous. I have been a patient at Pennington Family Dentistry for over 30 years.

Great staff! Been here a couple times already and they are efficient and they take the time to get to know you. Spent years in a large practice before this but never got that personal experience you want with a doctor or dentist. Would highly recommend this practice.

Professional friendly staff. Always feel comfortable and welcomed here. Dr. Bernie treat patients with attentive care and respect. Michele is so helpful and kind. Charissa is the best hygienist and her injections are the least painful ever.

I have been a patient of Pennington Family Dentistry for over 40 years and cannot say enough complimentary things about the professionalism of the entire staff. From the front desk to the hygienist to the doctors, each delivers superb and comfortable care. I highly recommend PFD to all those who seek dental care.

My wife and I have each visited PFD several times now, and we both have been consistently impressed with each of the staff, who have all been very friendly, knowledgeable and thorough.

View All Reviews