Oral Fluoride Including Drinking Water in Prevention of Tooth Decay

Herein we present a review of the role of oral fluoride in the prevention of tooth decay, together with updated recommendations on fluoride supplements. Fluoridation of public drinking water is still considered effective, but the recommended level of fluoride is now 0.7 mg/L, compared with the previously recommended range of 0.7-1.2 mg/L. Oral fluoride supplements are currently not restricted to the children at high risk for tooth decay, but recommended initiate at 6 months of age for all the children if their drinking water is deficient in fluoride. For infants more than six months, drinking water should contain 0.3 to 0.6 ppm of fluoride, which avoids the need for additional supplements. We emphasise also the importance of considering the existing fluoride level in the drinking water and the age of the child when prescribing fluoride supplements.