Pediatric Perspectives: Fluoride

Episode 2 of CHD.TV’s Pediatric Perspectives is a very enlightening discussion about fluoride. Host Dr. Paul Thomas interviews Dr. Griffin Cole, a biological dentist whose practice is based upon the vital connection between oral health and overall health. 

Key Takeaways from this interview include:

Fluoride is not an essential nutrient and there are no bodily processes that require it. Fluoride is a medicine that is added to our water supply without informed consent or dosage control. Scientific studies demonstrate that water fluoridation is harmful and causes toxic effects and systemic disturbances. Every enzyme system in the body is impacted which in turn effects all bodily processes. Deeply concerning are the known toxic effects on children’s developing brains, including brain impairment and lowered IQ. 

Fluoride is only added to the water supply in 5% the world with the U.S. providing fluoridated water to more citizens than the rest of the world combined. The fluoride being added to our water supply is not naturally occurring calcium fluoride or sodium fluoride which is found in toothpaste. It is a waste product produced by the fertilizer industry and by aluminum companies that has never been approved by the FDA. To make matters worse, the EPA is allowing levels of fluoride in the municipal water supply that are much higher than the margin of safety.

Ingestion of fluoride via food, drink or water causes a toxic, systemic effect without any anti-cariogenic benefits. While brushing with fluoride is a topical application and may provide some benefit with regards to tooth decay as long as the toothpaste is not swallowed, Dr. Cole still recommends using a healthy brand of toothpaste without fluoride. He also advises thatapplying a fluoride varnish to the teeth is extremely toxic and should be avoided. Dr. Cole concludes the interview by providing very detailed suggestions regarding how to minimize children’s exposure to fluoride and includes a discussion on how to provide good holistic dental care.

Watch the full episode here