Fluoride overdose (2024)

FAQs

What does too much fluoride do to the body? ›

In the case of acute fluoride toxicity, one or a combination of the following symptoms such as gastric disturbances (nausea, vomiting occasionally with blood, abdominal pain, diarrhea, weakness, and hypocalcemia) are observed. These symptoms result in generalized or localized muscle tetany especially of hand and feet.

Swallowing a large amount of regular toothpaste may cause stomach pain and possible intestinal blockage. These additional symptoms may occur when swallowing a large amount of toothpaste containing fluoride: Convulsions. Diarrhea.

A 2019 CDC study found that fluoride is linked to the development of dental fluorosis. This is a dental defect that causes tooth enamel to become hypomineralized. While mostly cosmetic — causing unsightly discoloration of the teeth — in severe cases, it may also weaken the tooth's structure and lead to physical damage.

All other treatment chemicals are added to treat the water (i.e. to improve the water's quality and safety - which fluoride does not do). This is one of the reasons why much of Europe has rejected fluoridation.

Dentists harness the power of fluoride to strengthen your tooth enamel and reduce your risk of cavities. While large amounts of fluoride can be dangerous, it's very difficult to reach toxic levels with properly fluoridated water and over-the-counter products that contain fluoride.

The typical toxic dose for fluoride ingestion has been estimated at 5-10 mg/kg, but symptoms may appear with 3-5 mg/kg. The estimated lethal dose is 5-10 g (32-64 mg/kg) in adults and 500 mg in small children, but death may result from ingestion of as little as 2 g of fluoride in an adult and 16 mg/kg in children.

Fluorosis is a condition that results in white or brown speckles on your teeth. It's caused by overexposure to fluoride in the early years of life, when your permanent teeth are developing.

While low levels of fluoride help strengthen and protect tooth enamel, too much fluoride can cause dental fluorosis—a discoloration of teeth, usually with opaque white marks, lines, or mottled enamel and poor mineralization.

Acute exposure to dangerous amounts of fluoride is rare, and usually occurs in small children.

How long does fluoride stay in your system? ›

After entering your body, about half of the fluoride leaves the body quickly in urine, usually within 24 hours unless large amounts (20 mg or more, which is the amount in 20 or more liters of optimally fluoridated water) are ingested. Most of the fluoride ion that stays in your body is stored in your bones and teeth.

Too much fluoride can pose risks to health, but the amount of fluoride in toothpaste is generally safe if a person uses the toothpaste as advised. Fluoride is a naturally occuring mineral that people add to water, food, and other products.

The Studies Don't Support the Benefits of Fluoride

Considering there is no conclusive evidence that suggests fluoride is beneficial, we believe it is best to not use it. Why put an unknown chemical component in your body if it provides no benefit to you?

Excess exposure to fluoride can lead to a bone disease known as skeletal fluorosis. Over many years, this can result in pain and damage to bones and joints. The bones may become hardened and less elastic, increasing the risk of fractures.

Q: Is the fluoride in my drinking water safe? A: Yes. When added or naturally present in the correct amounts, fluoride in drinking water has greatly improved the dental health of American and Canadian consumers. Early studies suggesting that fluoride was a possible cancer-causing chemical proved to be incorrect.

Too much fluoride in the diet is very rare. Rarely, infants who get too much fluoride before their teeth have broken through the gums have changes in the enamel that covers the teeth. Faint white lines or streaks may appear, but they are usually not easy to see.

Possible side effects

Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. In some rare cases (less than 1 in 1,000 users) allergic (hypersensitivity) reactions can occur, such as rash, itching, swelling, and redness. Burning oral sensation has also been reported.

A: Although endorsed by many dental and health organizations globally for its benefits in preventing tooth decay. However, it's your health, and ultimately the choice is yours. Consider all sides, consult your dentist, and ensure you can maintain a rigorous oral hygiene routine if you decide to forego fluoride.

Fluoride toxicity occurs when large amounts of fluoride are ingested over a short period of time. This can be dangerous to your health. Symptoms of fluoride toxicity may include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, increased salivation or increased thirst.