Position of the American Dietetic Association: The impact of fluoride on health

Fluoride is an important element for mineralization of body tissues. The us e of topical and systemic fluoride for oral health has resulted in major re ductions in dental caries and its associated disability. Fluoridation of public water supplies has been endorsed by over 90 professi onal health organizations as the most effective dental public health measur e in existence. Still, about half of the US population fails to receive the maximum benefits possible from community water fluoridation and the use of fluoride products. Fluoride also plays a role in bone health. The role of high doses of fluori de for prevention of osteoporosis is undergoing active study and is conside red experimental at this point. Dietetics professionals should routinely monitor and promote the use of sys temic and topical fluorides, especially in children and adolescents. The Am erican Dietetic Association strongly reaffirms its endorsement of the use o f systemic and topical fluorides, including water fluoridation, at appropri ate levels of intake, as an important public health measure. However, clien ts should be cautioned that, experimental use of high intakes of fluoride s hould be avoided unless they are participating in clinical trials.