Fluoride supplementation during pregnancy does not reduce caries in offspring

Abstract

Fluoride represents an essential element in dental development and safety. Fluoride deficiency is associated with dental cavities. The main dietary source of fluoride is in water, followed by fluoridated toothpaste, tea, seafood, canned sardines or shells as well as medicinal supplements. The adequate intake ranges from 0.7 mg/day for toddlers, to 3 mg/day for adult females and 4 mg/day for adult males. The fluoride intake can present a difficulty in assessment, especially during pregnancy, so the question remains: is fluoride supplementation recommended during pregnancy to prevent dental cavities in the offspring? The correct answer is ‘No’. Fluoride supplementation during pregnancy does not reduce the incidence of caries in offspring. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) does not recommend fluoride supplementation due to its action mechanism; fluoride has beneficial effects only after the tooth eruption takes place through a topical mechanism. Fluorosis (fluoride toxicity) in offspring has not been described secondary to excessive ingestion of fluoride of the mother during pregnancy, but there are studies correlating neurotoxic effects in the infants from mothers who received fluoride supplementation.

Keywords

• fluoride
• pregnancy
• neurotoxicity in infants
• adhd
• low iq scores