Fluoride

Fluoride is a natural element found in nearly all drinking water and soil, although the fluoride content varies greatly throughout the world. Some well water has much more fluoride than other water, so families who use well water need to monitor fluoride levels periodically to make sure that levels are not in the toxic range. Although fluoride is not considered an essential element, this anion is known to be important for the health of bones and teeth. 

Fluoride is considered important, if not essential, because of its benefits for tooth enamel. Fluoride incorporation into enamel produces more stable apatite crystals. Fluoride also acts as an antibacterial agent in the oral cavity, serving as an enzyme inhibitor.

Cooking foods in Teflon pans may increase fluoride intake.

Dietary reference intake

Children 0.7-1 mg/day

Adolescents 2-3 mg/day

Adults 3-4 mg/day

Pregnant 3-4 mg/day

Lactating 3-4 mg/day

Fluoride content of selected foods

Fluoride water, 8 oz (0.2 mg)

Strong tea, 1 cup (1 mg)

Beef liver, cooked, 1 piece (300 g) (15 mcg)

Sausage, pork, cooked, 1 (15 g) (2 mcg)

Deficiency

Fluoride cannot have a true deficiency that results in disease.

Toxicity

Tooth flaking

Dental fluorosis