Natural Birth and Baby Care.com

Fluoride or Not for Toddlers?

by Kimberlee Stevens
(Mountain Home, ID, US)

I recently met a dentist who thought it was alright to allow your little one (mine is 13 months) to brush with a small, pea sized, amount of adult toothpaste. He said it was good for them to get a bit of fluoride... if your town does not fluoridate its water supply.

I am brushing her teeth with fluoride free toothpaste right now. What is your view on this subject? Thanks!

Answer:

Hi Kimberlee,

I personally do not brush my kids' teeth with fluoride-containing toothpaste. Though fluoride is still added to most city water supplies and it's sold in some bottled waters marketed towards children (Nursery Water is one brand), I don't feel the evidence for it is compelling. The evidence against it, however, is mounting.

Nourishing, whole foods are what keep kids and their teeth healthy - not toothpaste or fluoride. I write about nutrient dense foods extensively in my book First Bites and Beyond - since I practice what I write, my children have perfect dental health.

But I know you, like me, probably want a little more than just note that it may not be a good idea. There's an article by Carol S. Kopf that covers fluoride well, and it has extensive references. Take a look at it:

Debunking Fluoride: Cavity Fighter or Toxic Intruder