"The FDA released a new scientific analysis Friday, concluding that fluoride supplements have limited benefits for children's teeth and may be linked to emerging safety concerns, including gut issues, weight gain and cognition. For the same reason fluoride may work to kill bacteria on teeth, it may also alter the gut microbiome, which may have broader health implications, the agency said in a statement."
"The FDA said that the products are no longer recommended for children younger than 3 and those who are older but don't face serious risks of tooth decay. Previously, the products have been prescribed for children as young as six months. The action stopped short of FDA statements in May suggesting regulators would seek the removal of the products from the market."
"The agency also sent a form letter to dentists and other health providers warning about the risks of the products. Those claims have been disputed by the American Dental Association, which has said there are no significant health problems associated with fluoride when used at the levels prescribed by dentists. The supplements can cause spotting or discoloration of teeth due to the extra fluoride, a downside the FDA also noted."
The FDA moved to limit the use of fluoride supplements for children, advising they not be used for those younger than 3 and for older children without serious tooth decay risk. The agency sent warning letters to four companies and a form letter to dental and health providers about risks. Fluoride tablets, lozenges and drops have been prescribed for infants as young as six months and for children in low-fluoride areas. A new FDA analysis found limited dental benefits and potential links to gut issues, weight gain, cognition, and altered gut microbiomes. The American Dental Association disputes significant health problems at prescribed levels, while the FDA noted dental discoloration as a known downside.
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